Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the expansion of high-quality undergraduate programs in China, highlighting the increase in enrollment numbers at top universities while also addressing the reduction of liberal arts programs, suggesting a shift towards interdisciplinary studies and the integration of liberal arts with science and technology [1][2][3]. Group 1: Expansion of Undergraduate Programs - The Chinese government aims to increase the enrollment of "double first-class" universities, with an additional 20,000 students planned for 2025, following a previous increase of 16,000 students [1]. - Tsinghua University and Peking University have announced plans to expand their undergraduate admissions by 150 students each, focusing on fields such as artificial intelligence and clinical medicine [5][6]. - Other 985 universities, including Shanghai Jiao Tong University and Xi'an Jiaotong University, are also expanding their enrollment, with a focus on emerging fields like AI, integrated circuits, and biomedical sciences [5][7]. Group 2: Reduction of Liberal Arts Programs - The trend of reducing liberal arts programs has sparked discussions, with Fudan University's president stating that the proportion of liberal arts admissions will decrease from 30-40% to 20% [2][9]. - Despite the reduction, data from the C9 university alliance indicates that liberal arts programs will not disappear, but rather undergo adjustments to better align with societal needs [9][11]. - The article emphasizes that while liberal arts may face cuts, they still hold significant importance in comprehensive universities, with a substantial number of students and faculty dedicated to these fields [11][13]. Group 3: Interdisciplinary Focus - The article suggests that the future of liberal arts lies in interdisciplinary integration, with universities developing programs that combine liberal arts with science and technology [3][15]. - Examples include Tsinghua University offering cross-disciplinary programs in political economy and creative design, and Fudan University launching new programs like neurolinguistics and data intelligence [18][19]. - The shift towards interdisciplinary studies is seen as a response to the evolving job market and societal demands, indicating a need for graduates who possess a blend of skills from both liberal arts and sciences [16][17].