During this summer study abroad course, we will explore the history of the Chinese economy from past to present in Hong Kong. We will explore China’s economy from the Chinese economic reform of the 1980’s to present. Other topics will include benefits and setbacks of digitization and exploring the current effects of the Chinese ‘One Child Policy’. There will be potential guest lectures and excursions to the Honk Kong Monetary Authority and the Hong Kong Competition Commission.

Hong Kong is a vibrant metropolis where East meets West in a dynamic blend of tradition and modernity. Nestled on the southern coast of China, Hong Kong is a global hub renowned for its bustling skyline, rich cultural heritage, and exceptional educational institutions. Experience a unique blend of Chinese traditions and Western influences. From the historic temples and bustling street markets to the cutting-edge architecture and international cuisine, Hong Kong offers an unparalleled cultural experience.

ECN 271: Chinese Economy (D) 

This course, ECN 271, counts as an Economics elective for students pursuing the Economics major or minor. This course also satisfies the Division IV requirement. 

This course counts towards the East Asian Languages (EAL) – Chinese major/minor elective credit towards the category of “Chinese history, religion, or politics “. 

This course has a pre-requisite of ECN 150. 

Dr. Tommy Leung
Associate Professor of Economics 
Phone: (336) 758-3497
Email: leungtc@wfu.edu

Students will stay in shared double room student dormitories at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. 

NOTE: All students participating in the Summer Hong Kong program are required to live in program-provided housing. Housing accommodations you may have on campus do not automatically transfer to abroad and certain housing accommodations (single rooms and private bathrooms, for example) may not be available.

Potential excursions and site visits will include (subject to change): 

• Hong Kong Monetary Authority 
• Hong Kong Competition Commission 
• Dragon Boat Festival 
• Food focused cultural events

The faculty director is responsible for selecting each group based on the following criteria:
* Academic suitability
* Social and emotional maturity
* Seriousness of the student in pursuing the academic and cultural aims of the program
* Applicability of the program to the student’s interests and studies
* Students must have taken the prerequisite course ECN 150

The total cost of summer study abroad can be broken down into four categories:
Program Fee – Usually covers room, in-country travel, excursions, some meals and other costs associated with the program.
Tuition – Students on WFU summer programs pay WFU summer school tuition per credit hour. The previous summer rate for 2024 was $950/per credit hour. 
Airfare (estimated) – Varies per location. Students are responsible for their own airfare unless otherwise noted.
Personal Expenses (estimated) – These will vary depending on the students’ spending habits, cost of living in the destination country, and the number of meals included in the program fee. This may also include visa fees, vaccinations, academic supplies/books and other miscellaneous daily expenses.

Program Fee (Estimated) – $3,790
Tuition (3 hrs) – $2,850
Airfare (estimated) – $2,000
Personal Expenses (estimated) – $1,360
Estimated total cost – $10,000

*Program fee is subject to change based on number of confirmed students.

Scholarships are available through the Center for Global Programs and Studies.

Passport Information
Students need to check their passport’s expiration date and ensure that it will be valid for at least 6 months after the program’s end date.

Students going on a summer program need to make sure their passport is valid through at least mid-February of the following year.

US passport holders who need to renew their passport should visit the U.S. Department of State’s passport website for information on this process.

Non-US passport holders who need to renew their passport should refer to their home country’s passport office.

Visa Information
If you are a US citizen, you most likely will not require a visa for your summer abroad program. If you do, details will be shared with you by GPS. Non-US passport holders should check with their host country’s embassy or consulate to find out if a visa is required for their program or not.

Dr. Tommy Leung
Associate Professor of Economics 
Phone: (336) 758-3497
Email: leungtc@wfu.edu

Tyler Favale 
Study Abroad Advisor
Center for Global Programs and Studies
Phone: 336-758-4072
Email: favalet@wfu.edu