YNU launches micro-majors to cultivate future-oriented talent

Yunnan University in Kunming, capital of Southwest China's Yunnan province, has opened applications for its micro-major programs for the fall semester of 2025, offering students a great opportunity to engage with cutting-edge disciplines.

Seven micro-majors are now available: Teacher Education, Global Governance and International Competence, Intelligent Communication, Carbon Emission Management, Spatio-Temporal Intelligence and Low-Altitude Economy, Game Design and Development, as well as Low-Altitude Communication Technology.

A classroom is made ready for the Intelligent Communication program. [Photo/ynu.edu.cn]

Each program is designed to be in line with industry needs and provide students with strong interdisciplinary competitiveness.

Supported by the Ministry of Education of China, the micro-major initiative allows universities to independently design flexible, modular talent training programs.

At Yunnan University, each micro-major consists of a series of core courses totaling 12 to 16 credits. Students who complete the curriculum and pass their assessments will be awarded a certificate from the university.

In addition, some credits may be transferred towards general education or elective requirements, offering more diverse pathways for academic and professional development.

The programs are said to reflect national strategies and emerging industry trends. Each micro-major combines classroom learning with practical applications – from advancing China's carbon peak and carbon neutrality goals and the low-altitude economy to meeting the growing demand in international governance, intelligent communications and the games industry.

Some programs also provide opportunities for students to obtain teaching qualifications, international certificates, or professional credentials.

The micro-majors are open to all second and third-year undergraduates at Yunnan University, regardless of their major. Admission will be merit-based.

With small-class teaching, modular curricula and strong university-enterprise partnerships, these programs aim to help students acquire essential skills, expand their career opportunities and grow into versatile professionals who are fully prepared for the future.