“不写论文也能毕业”，科研并不限于纸面

Core Viewpoint - Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics has announced a pilot program allowing undergraduate students to substitute their graduation thesis with high-level innovation achievements, such as competition awards, project conclusions, published academic papers, or patent authorizations, starting from the 2026 graduating class [1][2] Group 1: Policy Changes - The new policy reflects a broader trend in higher education where multiple forms of practical achievements can replace traditional thesis requirements, aligning with the Ministry of Education's regulations and the recently enacted Degree Law [1][2] - Other universities, including the University of Science and Technology of China and Hangzhou Dianzi University, have also experimented with similar approaches, indicating a growing acceptance of diverse evaluation methods in higher education [1][2] Group 2: Educational Implications - The shift towards allowing practical achievements instead of thesis writing respects students' individual development needs and aligns educational outcomes with their career aspirations and strengths [1][2] - The criteria for substituting a thesis are higher, requiring students to demonstrate strong innovation capabilities or significant professional skills, thus maintaining rigorous academic standards [2] Group 3: National Strategy Alignment - This educational reform is in response to the increasing demand for innovative talent in China, as part of the national strategies for science and education [2] - Higher education institutions are seen as crucial in nurturing talent that meets national strategic needs, providing an environment that fosters personal growth and potential [2] Group 4: Broader Academic Perspectives - The emergence of practical achievements as valid academic credentials, as exemplified by Tsinghua University's first "practical doctoral" graduate, emphasizes that academic value extends beyond traditional thesis writing [3] - The focus is on the ability to solve real-world problems and convert knowledge into productivity, suggesting a shift in how academic success is defined [3]