University of Surrey–China Agricultural University Joint Institute opens in Beijing

Students at one of China’s leading research universities have this week commenced studies for University of Surrey degrees, with a focus on applied learning to address current and future grand challenges, delivered through a new Joint Institute established with China Agricultural University (CAU) in Beijing.

The China Agricultural University–University of Surrey Joint Institute welcomed its first students in September 2026, following approval from China’s Ministry of Education in 2025. It will offer three four-year undergraduate programmes – artificial intelligence, computer science and electronic engineering. The Institute is designed to give students access to Surrey’s academic expertise and curriculum while studying at one of China’s top research institutions.

Developing safe and sustainable food sources, reducing water and energy use and keeping animals and crops healthy are grand challenges that are as much technological as they are agricultural. China Agricultural University’s expertise in veterinary science, food science and technology, together with our strengths in artificial intelligence, computer science and engineering, creates a unique offer for students at our Joint Institute who want to build the skills to drive a more sustainable future. Professor Stephen Jarvis, President and Vice-Chancellor

Teaching will be delivered in English, and upon completion, students will receive dual degrees from Surrey and from CAU. Students may also apply to spend some time at Surrey’s campus in Guildford, studying alongside students from across the world.

The Joint Institute reflects Surrey’s ambition, set out in its Vision 2041 strategy, to extend its research and education internationally.

The Institute’s faculty will be drawn from both universities, alongside internationally recruited staff, and the programmes have been designed to align with Surrey’s established strengths.

Our Joint Institute is a strategic alliance between two great universities that share the same values: curiosity, rigour and a desire to make the world better. Welcoming our new students, I asked them to learn with purpose, harnessing the power of knowledge to bring innovation in agriculture, healthcare, climate change and food security. These are global challenges requiring global solutions. Working together, Surrey and CAU will educate students to be part of those solutions. Professor Zhong Denghua, Chair of the CAU University Council, speaking at the launch of the Joint Institute

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Prof Stephen Jarvis

President and Vice-Chancellor

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