Xiamen University (XMU, Latin: Universitas Amoiensis, Pinyin: Xiàmén Dàxué, Simplified Chinese: 厦门大学), colloquially Xia Da (Pinyin: Xià Dà, Simplified Chinese: 厦大), located in Xiamen, Fujian Province, is the first university in China founded by overseas Chinese. The school motto: "Pursue Excellence, Strive for Perfection(自强不息, 止于至善)".

History

Since 1919 Mr. Tan Kah Kee (陈嘉庚), the well-known overseas Chinese leader, donated millions of dollars to establish and endow Xiamen University, which was publicly recognized as founded in 1921.

Mr. Tan was handed over Xiamen University to the government in 1937 for the lack of fund, and the university was subsequently turned into a national university.

In 1938, Xiamen University moved to Changting(长汀) county of Min Xi(闽西) or western Fujian, As the break out of the Sino-Japanese War.

After the World War II in 1946, Xiamen University moved back to Xiamen and resumed its normal operation.

In 1952, Xiamen University was adjusted and became a comprehensive university, and was designated as a national key university since 1962.

When the Cultural Revolution begins in 1966, The daily operation of Xiamen University was suspened, a subsidiary of faculties moved to Fuzhou and formed the initial polytechnic departments of Fuzhou University.

Campus

Kah Kee Buildings, the center of XMU campus.

Xiamen University is also famous for its beautiful campus. Sitting at the foot of the green mountains, facing the blue ocean and circled by the Xiamen bay, the campuses are set amidst picturesque scenery. At present, the university had Jimei and Zhangzhou campuses in addition to the traditional Xiamen campus located in the southern part of Xiamen Island.

Faculties

By June 1, 2004, Xiamen University had 20 schools containing 43 departments, and many key research institutes.

• School of Humanities
• School of Foreign Languages & Cultures
• School of Law
• School of Public Affairs
• College of Economics
• School of Management
• College of Art Education
• Chemistry & Chemical Engineering College
• School of Physics and Mechanical & Electrical Engineering
• College of Oceanography & Environment
• School of Life Science
• School of Computer and Information Engineering
• School of Mathematics
• Software School
• Medical College
• Department of Architecture
• Overseas Education College
• Adult Education College
• Professional Technical College
• Internet Education College

Famous Alumni

• Chen Jingrun - Mathematican

External link

• Official Website: Xiamen University (English)

See also: List of universities in Mainland China