WOMEN'S STUDIES PROGRAMS IN CHINA Since the 1950s, there has been a growing interest in China in Women's Studies. These programs, however, have often had a dificult time surviving, and are also markedly different in tone than Women's Studies Programs in the US. China Women's College in Beijing is the only state funded college for women, and was founded in 1949. Most such institutions/programs date only from the 80's and there are only a few of them. At China Women's College, students might take courses with topics and/or units from a woman's perspective. They might also take vocational technology training. During my meetings with these women, they seemed to have no real understanding of a Women's Studies Degree, Major or Program such as exit in the United States. Other institutions, such as the Institute of Women's Studies in Beijing focused on research on gender inequality, stereotypes in literature, inequality in the workforce, unemployment, domestic violence, and other issues. These institutions also ran hotlines, and mediated in family disputes, and attempted to provide vocational training to the unemployed. Both sorts of institutions were very active in promoting and effecting social reform, as opposed to simply being centers for research and study. Return to "Women Hold Up Half the Sky" Return to the Global Issues Home Page Created by Dr. Deborah Vess, copyright 1998. All rights reserved.