An artist’s impression of Tianjin University of Finance and Economics.	Tianjin University of Finance and Economics by night.

ARTISTIC buildings, flourishing trees, a beautiful lake — everything you see in Tianjin University of Finance and Economics (TUFE) is bright and pleasant. Students and academics live harmoniously with the stunning natural surroundings.

The university was built in 1958, and over the years has become an ideal place for study and living, with multifunctional classrooms, a well-equipped library and many other modern facilities. University chancellor Zhang Jia-xing is proud of the school’s impressive appearance, achieved at relatively low cost thanks to “the young but excellent architect Zhou Kai and his idea of using building design to reflect the distinct features of the institution. We believe the university’s appearance must represent the institution’s spirit and culture, and exert a subtle influence on everyone here.”

TUFE’s reputation is not just built on appearances, however. The university maintains a tradition of high quality education. Though it already excels in the country’s evaluation of undergraduate level education quality, TUFE continues to improve its teaching methods, based on cultivating students in accordance with their individual aptitudes. The university aims to provide a comprehensive educational experience, which takes into account students’ future plans and requirements, such as employment and further study in China or abroad. It has implemented a teacher management and evaluation system to ensure teaching quality is maintained, and carries out constant student evaluations.

Zhang Jiaxing says university staff have learnt a lot from overseas advanced education concepts and methods, and have adopted more suitable and scientific models in line with conditions in China. “Universities should contribute to both the country’s material and ideological development and the development of ideas. They are a source of material and spiritual enrichment for the entire society. Today’s students should be the creators and leaders of the future.”

Through the hard work of students and staff, employment rates for TUFE graduates have remained above 96 percent every year. The university has also taken on more than 100 scientific research projects at both national and provincial levels. TUFE continues to strive for excellence and meets all challenges with vigor and ambition.