Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the recent developments in China's higher education landscape, highlighting the increase in the number of universities, particularly new research-oriented institutions, and the expansion of vocational undergraduate programs [2][3]. Group 1: Overview of Higher Education Institutions - As of June 20, 2025, there are a total of 3,167 higher education institutions in China, including 2,919 regular higher education institutions, 1,365 undergraduate schools, and 1,554 vocational (associate degree) schools [1]. - Compared to the same period last year, the number of higher education institutions has increased by 50, with regular higher education institutions increasing by 51 and adult higher education institutions decreasing by 1 [2]. Group 2: New Research-Oriented Universities - Among the newly added undergraduate institutions, three are new research-oriented universities, which is the highest number in recent years. These include Fujian Fuyou University of Science and Technology, Greater Bay Area University, and Ningbo Oriental University of Science and Technology [2]. - The new research-oriented universities focus on innovative governance, talent cultivation, and scientific research, characterized by high standards, significant investment, and internationalization [2][3]. Group 3: Regional Distribution and Demand - New research-oriented universities are primarily located in economically developed eastern coastal regions, where there is strong financial support and market demand for high-tech talent due to local economic and industrial upgrades [3]. - The article suggests encouraging more private entrepreneurs to establish new research-oriented universities to foster healthy competition among institutions [3]. Group 4: Expansion of Vocational Undergraduate Programs - Following a significant expansion last year, vocational undergraduate institutions have continued to grow, with the total number reaching 36 [3]. - In 2024, vocational undergraduate programs enrolled 109,600 students, with an additional 44,100 students in associate degree programs [4]. Group 5: Trends in Employment and Skills - There is a growing trend of university graduates returning to vocational schools to acquire practical skills, with 52.2% of graduates believing that this will enhance their employment opportunities [4]. - The increasing demand for skilled professionals in the job market is reflected in the rising admission scores for vocational undergraduate programs, indicating their growing popularity among students and parents [4].

Group 1 - The core viewpoint of the articles highlights the emergence of new research-oriented universities in China, specifically mentioning Fujian Fuyao University of Science and Technology, Greater Bay Area University, and Ningbo Oriental Institute of Technology as part of the recent increase in higher education institutions [1][2] - As of June 20, 2025, there are a total of 3,167 higher education institutions in China, with 2,919 being regular higher education institutions, including 1,365 undergraduate schools and 1,554 vocational (associate degree) schools [1] - The number of regular higher education institutions has increased by 51 compared to the same period last year, with 57 new undergraduate institutions added, marking the highest number of new research-oriented universities in recent years [1][2] Group 2 - New research-oriented universities are characterized by innovative governance models, talent cultivation methods, and research organization forms, focusing primarily on scientific and technological research [2] - The distribution of these universities is mainly concentrated in economically developed coastal regions of China, where there is a strong demand for high-tech talent due to local economic and industrial needs [2] - The number of vocational undergraduate institutions has reached a new high of 36, following significant expansion in the previous year, reflecting a growing trend in vocational education [2][3] Group 3 - In 2024, vocational undergraduate enrollment is projected to reach 109,600, with an additional 44,100 students enrolling in associate degree programs [3] - There is a notable trend of university graduates returning to vocational schools to acquire practical skills, with 52.2% of graduates believing that this will enhance their employment opportunities [3] - The increasing popularity of vocational undergraduate programs is evident, as some institutions have seen rising admission scores, indicating a growing recognition of the value of these programs [3]