ReConnect China MOOC: Introduction to Chinese Politics and Society

Chinese lanterns

Ongoing until end of 2026

Level: Basic

Language: English

Credits: 3 ECTS

Time: on-going until 18 December 2026

Organiser: The course is offered by the EU-Horizon ReConnect China –project and it is organized by the Center for East Asian Studies, University of Turku.

Contact person:  Senior university lecturer Dr Outi Luova, Center for East Asian Studies, University of Turku

Objectives: This course provides learners with a solid foundational understanding of contemporary Chinese politics and society. By the end of the course, participants will be able to identify China’s key political and administrative institutions, while also gaining a comprehensive grasp of the policy implementation processes within the country. Moreover, learners will explore significant issues prevalent in Chinese society, including migration, inequality, an aging population, digitalization, and the role of civil society.

Content: This course is divided into six thematic modules.

  1. Introduction to China
  2. Short overview of modern history
  3. Political system: the Party-state
  4. Policy planning and implementation
  5. Population issues
  6. Digitalization, and civil society

Taken as: Asynchronous online course.

The core materials consist of short (20 min) recorded lectures and slide decks that are prepared by leading European experts on China. In addition, the versatile learning materials include timelines, infographics, podcasts and open access online materials. Learners will also get acquainted with central sources of information about China, including selected Chinese webpages.

The learning experience is enriched by various types of automatically graded assignments. These encompass quizzes, drag-and-drop exercises, and branching scenarios. Moreover, each module culminates in a multiple-choice exam, providing a comprehensive evaluation of the knowledge assimilated. In order to complete the course and receive a course certificate, students need to pass all assignments and exams within the course period.

Grading: Pass/fail

Enrollment :

This is a free online course available for anyone to enroll.

The course is arranged in the DigiCampus learning platform. Sign up using manual registration, your Google password or your HAKA-credentials (students from Finnish universities or polytechnics)  on this page.

Students who hold a valid study right at a member university of the Asia Network, and self-paying students of the Asia Network, can also register to this course through the Asia Network application process. After successfully completing all coursework, their study credits will be registered in the Peppi- service at the transition between academic study period.

Information about the application period and the application process is available here.

Certificate and study credits:

Once students have successfully completed all assignments and exams, they can generate an automatic course completion certificate. The certificate is digitally verifiable.
If you wish to receive study credits for this course, please check with your university in advance to confirm whether it accepts the MOOC certificate for credit

More information about how to take MOOC-courses is available here.

Pic: Angela-roma