Welcome to China!
The People's Republic of China has been a center of international attention for the past 15 years as it has emerged as a global economic power. China has the world's highest population with more than 1.3 billion people, and is the third largest country in the world with respect to land area. Due to such a large population and land size, China has immense cultural and geographic diversity within its borders. Chinese history can be traced back thousands of years, making ancient China one of the world's oldest civilizations. The Chinese lifestyle--founded in Eastern traditions that include religious, medical, and governmental beliefs far different from the west attracts students from all over the world to study abroad.
Why intern in China?
Shanghai, China is one of the world's largest cities and one of its most important centers for business and trade. With a population close to 20 million people, Shanghai also presents unlimited multi-cultural experiences. People from all over the world call Shanghai home, which has given the city a unique culture. Due to its financial success, Shanghai has some of the best shopping in China, with a wide range of shopping options from small shops to giant stores. Anyone who enjoys shopping will love Shanghai! From walking the Bund, to seeing a stunning array of architectural styles and unique buildings, to visiting a tea house to see Chinese opera, there is constantly something to see or do while in Shangahi. Shanghai offers the opportunity to explore Chinese food, economy, and culture and learn how over one billion people on the globe live.
China is an excellent location for Business and Marketing, Hospitality and Tourism, Architecture and Urban Planning, Law, Health and Communication. Most placements in China are focused on the business side of their respective field. Prospective interns interested in applying to intern in Shanghai should have a minimum GPA of 2.7 and know why they want to intern in China. All internships in Shanghai will be conducted in English, so no previous knowledge of Chinese language is required.
Career Fields Available in China
Check out our internship opportunities in China below!
- Architecture and Urban Planning
- Business and Marketing
- Communication, Media, and PR
- Education
- Engineering
- Environmental and Sustainability Studies
- Fashion
- Film and TV
- Health
- Hospitality, Events, and Tourism
- IT and Computer Science
- Legal Studies and Advocacy
- Performing and Visual Arts
- Political Science
- Psychology and Social Work
- Research
I had an amazing experience, so much so that I know I want to go back and work in China. TEAN did a great job at orientation, I felt like I really connected with my group who went abroad. We all became pretty great friends with eachother and so the housemates became my best friends. Personally I also really wanted to experience what life would be like as a local so I would do things alone to get a feel for the city. I found new hobbies and new friends and we were able to compare out life styles and I was able to practice my mandarin.
Mei S.
Pace University
Orientation, Excursions, & Activities
Your program will start with a multi-day orientation in Shanghai where you will enjoy a city tour and other excursions as well as receive pertinent information about how to be most successful in your internship abroad. Throughout your program, you will have the chance to go on weekend trips, day trips, and optional trips. ISA excursions allow you to explore the timeless, quaint, and historical landscape of the country (and potentially surrounding countries) that you may not have the chance to visit on your own. The locations below are a sample of included and optional excursions that have run in the past. Please know that these are subject to change.
Beijing and The Great Wall
Get ready for a weekend designed for you to experience the best of Beijing exploring China’s ancient and modern culture, eating plenty of delicious cuisine and even experiencing one of the world’s greatest wonders – the Great Wall of China. After a high speed train ride up to China’s capital city, visit the historic Forbidden City and stop at the iconic Tiananmen Square. Beijing’s meandering alleyways, known as hutongs, also offer a glimpse into the past while the city’s tasty treats, like authentic Peking duck, show the range of China’s mouthwatering meals. The highlight of the weekend is an overnight stay at the Great Wall of China complete with a sunrise hike along the wall away from other tourists.
Chengdu
While interning, take in a weekend getaway to the wonderful town of Chengdu. Filled with cultural history, archaic infrastructure, and adorable pandas, you won't want to miss this long weekend trip included in your ISA program fee. During the excursion, you will explore the region’s iconic “Wide and Narrow Alleys”, known as Kuai Shai Xiangzi, which are a tribute to the ancient architecture of the Ming and Qing Dynasties, marvel at one of Taoism’s central birthplaces, Mount Qingcheng, and take in the scenery surrounding the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, a UNESCO World Heritage site noted for being the oldest grand irrigation system in the world and home to a number of cultural relics. Of course, you couldn't leave Chengdu without visiting the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding! You'll have plenty of time to explore on your own after enjoying a guided tour.
Cultural Activities in Shanghai
The ISA on-site team encourages you to explore the city and culture of Shanghai. The team facilitates this by offering a robust calendar of events that showcase what makes Shanghai special. These activities vary each term. Previous offerings have included dumpling night, a calligraphy lesson, a Taichi class, a traditional tea ceremony, and temple visits.
Housing Details
ISA Housing provides the opportunity for interns to experience aspects of the local lifestyle that are inaccessible to the average visitor. The experience of living in another culture will be both educational and rewarding so long as you stay open-minded. There are many differences in culture and lifestyle between life in China and the U.S. Remember: the key to a positive experience is flexibility!
Apartments
- Apartments are typically single occupancy but will depend on availability.
- Located near public transport including Shanghai metro stops.
- Fully furnished with a fully-equipped kitchen.
- Meals are not included.
| Program | Duration | Dates (mm/dd/yy) | Application Due Date | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 2026 | 8-week | TBD | TBD | TBD |
| June 2026 | 8-week | TBD | TBD | TBD |
Travel Visa Information
Participants must have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months AFTER their expected departure date from China.
U.S. Citizens
Prior to departure, students are responsible for applying for their visa. Processing for U.S. citizens to obtain the visa usually takes 2-3 weeks. Applicants must be 18 or older.
Non-U.S. Citizens
Please note that non-U.S. citizens should contact their Consulate to verify specificentry requirements. As these requirements vary based on citizenship, non-U.S.citizens may not be permitted to travel to China without a visa or outside of their visa dates. Also, visa fees for non-U.S. citizens may differ so please be sure to check specific Consulate's website for the most up to date information.
Note: Embassy and Consulate contact information is subject to change withoutnotice. Please refer to the website of the Embassy or Consulate to verify information.
