Group 1 - The Ministry of Education has added 29 urgently needed undergraduate majors, including health and medical security, intelligent audio-visual engineering, and international cruise management, resulting in a total of 1,839 new undergraduate program points while canceling 1,428 and suspending 2,220 programs that do not meet demand [1] - The Ministry aims to implement the "Education Strong Country Construction Plan Outline (2024-2035)" and the three-year action plan by supporting the establishment of "Low Altitude Technology and Engineering" as a new discipline, breaking the three-year review cycle for degree authorization [1][2] - Beijing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics (BUAA) has taken the lead in drafting guidelines for the construction of the low altitude technology and engineering discipline, prompting 120 universities nationwide to apply for the establishment of related disciplines [2] Group 2 - The Ministry emphasizes maintaining high-quality teaching standards and talent cultivation in newly established disciplines, ensuring they align with national strategic needs and have adequate support systems [2] - BUAA has implemented a systematic approach to discipline construction, integrating six colleges and seven disciplines, and has initiated a project-based teaching system for students to work on real projects from their second to fourth years [3] - The university has also planned and initiated low altitude professional textbooks and established a collaborative management system across multiple campuses to enhance the development of the low altitude sector [3]

Group 1 - The core viewpoint is that traditional academic disciplines may not meet the demands of the times, necessitating a "reshuffle" of university programs to align education with societal needs, particularly in emerging fields like artificial intelligence and low-altitude economy [1] - The Ministry of Education has initiated an extraordinary layout mechanism for urgently needed academic disciplines to quickly respond to the demand for high-level talent in national strategic areas, breaking the traditional three-year review cycle for degree authorization [2] - In the low-altitude economy sector, universities such as Tsinghua University and Beihang University have been supported to establish new disciplines, allowing for immediate enrollment to address talent shortages [4] Group 2 - A total of 29 new undergraduate programs have been added, including "International Cruise Management," "Health and Medical Security," and "Intelligent Audio-Visual Engineering," reflecting urgent societal needs [5] - In the 2024 academic year, 1,839 new undergraduate program points will be established, while 1,428 existing programs will be removed and 2,220 will cease enrollment due to misalignment with societal demands [5] - The Ministry of Education is developing a national talent supply and demand data platform, akin to a "weather forecast" for the talent market, to shift talent cultivation from experience-based decision-making to data-driven approaches [8] Group 3 - Recent trends show that new academic programs are increasingly aligned with emerging social phenomena, such as the rise of the "ice and snow economy" and the "pet economy," leading to the establishment of specialized programs like "Ice and Snow Dance Performance" and "Companion Animal" studies [13] - Traditional engineering disciplines, such as electrical, automation, and mechanical engineering, are experiencing a resurgence due to the transition to renewable energy and advanced manufacturing [14] - The development of academic programs is closely linked to local industry needs, with cities like Beijing seeing an increase in digital economy and big data programs, while provinces like Anhui focus on smart vehicle engineering to support their automotive industry [16]

Core Viewpoint - The rapid expansion of China's low-altitude economy market has triggered a competition for "high-end" talent, with educational institutions responding by adding relevant programs to meet industry demands [6][8]. Summary by Sections Talent Competition - The Ministry of Education announced the addition of 239 undergraduate programs for 2025, with 120 focused on "Low Altitude Technology and Engineering," indicating a strong emphasis on low-altitude economy-related fields [6][7]. - Six universities, including Beijing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, have been designated to lead the development of low-altitude economy disciplines, reflecting their existing strengths in aerospace and communication technologies [7][8]. Market and Policy Drivers - The low-altitude economy is becoming a favored area for academic program adjustments, driven by national policies and market demand, particularly in logistics, tourism, and emergency rescue sectors [8][9]. - By the end of 2024, the number of low-altitude economy enterprises in China is projected to reach 14,707, a year-on-year increase of 19.8%, significantly higher than the previous three-year average growth rate of 9.1% [8][9]. Regional Landscape - The competition in the low-altitude economy is not only about industry chains but also about talent, with various provinces actively establishing related programs [11][16]. - Sichuan leads with 14 low-altitude economy-related programs, followed by Jiangsu (11), Beijing (10), and Guangdong (10) [11][17]. - Major cities like Beijing and Chengdu are at the forefront, each with 10 programs, while cities like Nanjing and Guangzhou are also expanding their offerings [13][17]. Industry-Academia Collaboration - Despite a foundational talent pool, there is a significant talent shortage in the low-altitude economy, necessitating a shift towards more specialized and interdisciplinary training [19][20]. - Leading companies in the low-altitude economy are increasingly partnering with universities to enhance talent development through collaborative programs [19][20]. - The collaboration aims to align academic training with market needs, ensuring that educational institutions remain relevant and effective in producing qualified professionals [20].

Core Viewpoint - The Ministry of Education has announced the addition of the low-altitude technology and engineering major in 2025, reflecting the rapid growth of the low-altitude economy, which is expected to become a strategic emerging industry in China [1][5]. Group 1: Industry Overview - The low-altitude economy is defined as a comprehensive economic form that relies on low-altitude airspace and various manned and unmanned aircraft for diverse low-altitude flight activities [1]. - The market size of China's low-altitude economy is projected to reach 1.5 trillion yuan by 2025 and 3.5 trillion yuan by 2035, indicating a significant growth trend and strong employment demand [3]. Group 2: Educational Initiatives - A total of 120 universities are planning to add the low-altitude technology and engineering major, with six universities already offering it [1]. - Universities like Anhui University and Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications are focusing on training talents in low-altitude communication networks and integrating their existing strengths in electronic and communication engineering [2][4]. Group 3: Talent Demand and Industry Needs - There is a high demand for professionals who understand both technology and air traffic planning, as the low-altitude economy requires interdisciplinary knowledge [3][4]. - The expansion of the low-altitude technology and engineering major is seen as a response to the strategic direction of the country, the need for industrial upgrades, and educational reforms [5]. Group 4: Recommendations for Educational Institutions - Educational institutions are advised to tailor their talent training programs to local industry needs, focusing on specific areas such as electric aircraft technology and operational economics [4][5]. - The establishment of a closed-loop ecosystem involving technology research, talent training, and practical application is essential for the sustainable development of the low-altitude economy [5].

Core Points - The rapid expansion of China's low-altitude economy market has triggered a competition for "high-end" talent, with a significant increase in related academic programs [1][7] - The Ministry of Education has approved the addition of 239 new undergraduate programs for 2025, including 120 points for "Low Altitude Technology and Engineering," indicating a strong focus on this emerging field [1][2] - The demand for professionals in the low-altitude economy is surging, with a projected market size of 1.5 trillion yuan by 2025 and 3.5 trillion yuan by 2035 [7][8] Education and Talent Development - Six universities, including Beijing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, have been designated to lead the development of low-altitude economy programs, reflecting their strong foundations in aerospace and communication technologies [5][17] - The talent gap in the low-altitude economy is significant, with a reported shortage of 1 million drone operators and an annual demand for approximately 4,000 graduates in low-altitude technology [8][19] - The collaboration between universities and leading companies in the low-altitude sector is increasing, with initiatives aimed at integrating education and industry to better prepare graduates for market needs [20][21] Regional Dynamics - The competition for low-altitude economy talent is evident across various provinces, with Sichuan, Jiangsu, Beijing, and Guangdong leading in the number of new program points [10][18] - Major cities like Beijing and Chengdu are emerging as hubs for low-altitude economy education, with a concentration of resources and industry presence that supports talent development [14][17] - The establishment of low-altitude economy programs in cities like Nanjing and Guangzhou is expected to enhance local industry capabilities and drive regional economic growth [18][19] Industry Trends - The low-altitude economy is characterized by its diverse applications, including logistics, tourism, and emergency response, which are driving the demand for specialized talent [7][19] - The shift towards electric propulsion systems in aviation is creating new interdisciplinary research opportunities, necessitating a more specialized workforce [6][19] - The integration of academic programs with industry needs is crucial for the sustainable development of the low-altitude economy, requiring careful planning and collaboration between educational institutions and businesses [21]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the introduction of new undergraduate majors in Chinese universities for 2025, highlighting the significant focus on low-altitude technology and engineering, which is expected to become a leading field in the coming years due to the burgeoning low-altitude economy [2][4][5]. Group 1: New Undergraduate Majors - A total of 239 new undergraduate majors have been proposed, with 863 applications from various universities, including prestigious institutions like Fudan University and Nanjing University [2]. - The low-altitude technology and engineering major has the highest number of applications, with 120 universities applying, indicating a strong demand for talent in this emerging field [4][5]. - Other new majors include network space security, information security, and various educational disciplines such as sports training and artificial intelligence education, reflecting a diverse range of employment opportunities [2][5]. Group 2: Employment Opportunities - The introduction of new majors is primarily driven by employment needs, with the education sector being the largest employer of university graduates, accounting for 13.9% of employment in 2024 [9]. - There is a significant talent gap in low-altitude technology, with an estimated annual demand for 4,000 professionals, while only 360 students are expected to be admitted in the first year [5]. - The education sector is experiencing a recovery, with a rising trend in employment opportunities, particularly in artificial intelligence education, where there is a reported shortage of over 500,000 qualified teachers [10][9]. Group 3: Industry Trends - The low-altitude economy is on the verge of rapid development, supported by technological advancements and policy backing, necessitating a skilled workforce to sustain growth [5][6]. - The sports industry is also evolving, with new majors in sports training and management being established to meet the demand for high-level sports talent, driven by recent policy changes [12][13]. - The sports industry has shown significant growth, with an annual increase of 11.6% in value added, indicating a shift towards becoming a pillar industry in the economy [14].

Group 1: New Undergraduate Programs - The Ministry of Education announced 239 new undergraduate programs for 2025, totaling 863 applications from various universities, including top institutions like Fudan University and Nanjing University [1][2] - The most popular new program is Low Altitude Technology and Engineering, with 120 universities applying, indicating a significant push towards developing talent in the low-altitude economy [1][2] - Other new programs include disciplines in sports training, artificial intelligence education, and e-sports management, reflecting a growing demand for skilled professionals in these areas [1][5] Group 2: Employment Trends - The education sector remains the largest employer for university graduates, with a reported employment rate of 13.9% for the 2024 cohort, showing a recovery trend since the "double reduction" policy in 2021 [5][6] - There is a significant talent gap in low-altitude technology, with an estimated annual demand for 4,000 professionals against a planned enrollment of only 360 students in the first batch of universities offering this program [2][3] - The introduction of new programs is largely driven by employment needs, with both new and traditional sectors creating job opportunities through transformation and innovation [1][5] Group 3: Industry Development - The low-altitude economy is on the verge of rapid growth, supported by technological advancements and government policies, yet faces challenges such as talent shortages and market fluctuations [2][3] - The sports industry is also evolving, with a 11.6% annual growth rate in value added since the 14th Five-Year Plan, indicating a shift towards becoming a pillar industry in the economy [12] - The establishment of new programs in sports training and related fields aims to address the demand for high-level sports talent in educational institutions and the broader sports industry [11][12]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rapid rise of the low-altitude economy in China, highlighting the government's strategic focus on developing related educational programs to meet the growing demand for talent in this emerging sector [3]. Group 1: Low-Altitude Economy - The Ministry of Education announced the addition of 869 new undergraduate programs for 2025, with the most significant increase in low-altitude technology and engineering, totaling 120 new programs [3]. - The low-altitude economy encompasses activities related to civil manned or unmanned aircraft flying at low altitudes, including aircraft research and manufacturing, commercial operations, and infrastructure development [3]. - The low-altitude economy has been recognized as a strategic emerging industry by the Central Economic Work Conference and included in the government work report as a "new growth engine" [3]. Group 2: Educational Program Adjustments - The optimization and adjustment of university programs reflect the changing demand for professional talent in the economy, with many top universities establishing new colleges focused on fields like artificial intelligence and aerospace technology [5]. - The number of canceled programs has also increased due to poor employment prospects or misalignment with societal needs, with the top five canceled programs from 2020 to 2024 being Information Management and Information Systems (160), Public Administration (138), Information and Computing Science (123), Marketing (104), and Product Design (93) [5]. - The importance of aligning educational programs with economic and societal development needs is emphasized, advocating for the efficient allocation of resources to cultivate high-demand talents [5].

Group 1 - The Ministry of Education plans to add 869 new undergraduate programs for the 2025 academic year, with a focus on low-altitude technology and engineering, which accounts for the largest share at 120 new programs [1] - The low-altitude economy is rapidly emerging, defined as the economic activities derived from civil manned or unmanned aircraft flying at low altitudes, encompassing aircraft R&D, commercial operations, and infrastructure development [1] - The central government has recognized the low-altitude economy as a strategic emerging industry, emphasizing its importance in government work reports and meetings [1][2] Group 2 - In addition to low-altitude technology, the cybersecurity program is set to add 56 new programs, while sports training will see 42 new programs, reflecting the changing demand for professional talent in society [2] - The optimization and adjustment of university programs are accelerating in response to the evolving needs of the economy, with many top-tier universities establishing new colleges focused on fields like artificial intelligence and aerospace technology [2] - A significant number of programs are being cut due to poor employment prospects or misalignment with societal needs, with the top five most canceled programs from 2020 to 2024 being information management, public administration, and others [2] Group 3 - Experts emphasize the importance of aligning higher education programs with economic and social development needs, advocating for the optimization of resources to focus on high-demand fields and advanced talent cultivation [3]

Core Viewpoint - The adjustment of undergraduate programs in universities is crucial to meet the demands of economic and social development, as well as future needs [1] Group 1: Program Adjustments - Many universities are initiating adjustments to their undergraduate programs for the 2025 academic year, with a focus on optimizing their academic offerings [2] - Shenyang Aerospace University plans to add four new programs, including Low-altitude Technology and Engineering, while discontinuing six existing programs [2] - Northeast Normal University intends to withdraw seven programs, including Finance, and propose four new programs such as Data Science [3] - A total of 603 new programs have been proposed across over 150 universities, with a significant number focusing on emerging fields like Artificial Intelligence and Digital Economy [3] Group 2: Policy and Strategic Direction - The Ministry of Education has issued guidelines emphasizing the need to align program offerings with national strategies, market demands, and technological advancements [4] - The guidelines encourage universities to develop programs in strategic emerging industries such as integrated circuits, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology [4] Group 3: Trends in Program Discontinuation - The number of discontinued programs is increasing due to factors like poor employment prospects and misalignment with societal needs [5] - The top five discontinued programs from 2020 to 2024 include Information Management and Information Systems, with 160 programs being cut [5] Group 4: Faculty Transition and Support - Universities are establishing measures to support faculty transitions when programs are discontinued, including reassignment to related fields or administrative roles [7] - Faculty members affected by program discontinuation may have opportunities to teach in related programs or transition to other academic roles [6][7]