An analysis of the issues in developing research universities in China

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to find out the problems in the contemporary development of Chinese research universities and think about relevant measures and policy for promotion. Design/methodology/approach – After over 20 years practice, China has made quite significant achievements in developing research universities, yet there are still some issues that exist. Analyzing the issues and the effects of existing policies for construction and development of China's research universities, and looking back at practices guided by these polices, the study proposes new dimensions in the measures and policies, on the bases of the achievements that have been made. Findings – This paper analyzes the current situation of China's research university development and reveals that the critical issues, such as faculty qualities, academic freedom, post‐graduate education, initiative research outcome, and internationalization, etc. must be highlighted and solved. Originality/value – To further progress it is important to analyze the problems of developing research university development in the existing higher education system. The policy implication of this paper lies in that the results can be a reference for policy makers and the HEI administrations.