Hangzhou is close to many tourist spots such as the Yellow Mountains, and is on the many transportation routes, making it an ideal place for short-term study. Hangzhou University is a key provincial institution that boasts a 95-year history. It has about 8,000 students and offers 38 undergraduate programs as well as 51 graduate programs. The campus is about 15 minutes by bicycle from the center of the city and its main attraction, beautiful West Lake. Students live in a special dormitory, which houses people from all over the world, including Australia, Germany, and Japan.
Students eat their meals at the restaurant-style dining room or at nearby eating establishments.
They may also prepare their own food in the dorm kitchen. Hangzhou University instructors guide students through intensive language training and share insights about the local culture. Hangzhou Program students are required to take 10 credits of intensive Chinese language and 3 credits of the EA 395. The actual classroom hours are much higher, due to the shortened length of the semester and the fact it is an intensive language experience. There is usually a tour at the beginning through Beijing and Xi'an, as well as opportunities for travelling and touring throughout the semester.