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Yating Yang

A variety of courses offered at Chinese universities have attracted attention for their novel nature and creativity.
The lighthearted courses often challenge traditional academic perceptions with their bizarre, fun-loving and unconventional content.
They form part of natural and social science curriculums, representing a genuine effort by academics to cater to student interests.
The Post delves into some of the most quirky and bizarre courses on offer in China, exploring how they bridge the gap between education and entertainment.

Harry Potter and genetics
In 2012, Sun Yat-sen University in Guangzhou in southern China launched an innovative course titled Harry Potter and Genetics, quickly earning the nickname of a “legendary elective” among students.
The course, capped at 100 students and offering one credit, targets Harry Potter enthusiasts.
It delves into the genetics of the wizard world and introduces students to the fundamental principles and applications of the subject, further aiming to spark interest in biology.
Created by a professor, surnamed Chen, from the School of Medicine, a self-proclaimed Harry Potter enthusiast.

“Many researchers worldwide utilise the Harry Potter universe as a model for conducting serious scientific studies in a way that is both engaging and accessible. This approach has greatly inspired me,” said Chen.
Detective Conan and chemistry
The course, Detective Conan and chemistry, was introduced in 2012 by associate professor Xu Hai from the Central South University’s School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering in central China.
Based on a Japanese detective manga series, it has drawn significant attention from fans of Detective Conan.
Despite its playful name, the course is designed to deepen students’ understanding of chemical concepts and inspire them to solve mysteries using scientific principles through engaging storytelling that relates directly to the manga series.
The course also delves into trivia about Detective Conan, including questions about the relationships between characters.

Dynastic time travel
In 2016, Fujian Normal University in southeastern China introduced the unique course – Dynastic time travel – that immerses students in ancient Chinese culture through interactive experiences.
It covers topics like cuisine, clothing, architecture, transport, and social customs.
In one session, a professor, surnamed Pan, adopts the role of a pre-Qin-era waiter, inviting students to order food.
One student requested a spicy fish dish, but was humorously served only “clear soup, boiled fish.”
Pan explained that chilli peppers did not exist in that era, so only non-spicy fish dishes were available.

Instead of traditional exams, students are required to write a time-travel novel or essays demonstrating their understanding of pre-Qin history to pass the final test.
The course has been a hit, often drawing more than 300 students, including those who could not officially enrol.
One such student said: “Nowadays, isn’t everyone fond of time-travel dramas? After attending professor Pan’s lectures, we can identify the historical inaccuracies in TV dramas. This teaching method teaches us to respect history.”
Three Kingdoms Kill
In 2013, Nanchang University in north-central China introduced an innovative course centred on the popular Chinese card game Three Kingdoms Kill.
Originally designed for 200 students, the course finally saw nearly 300 participants enrol.
Professor Rao Feng, a fan of the game and inspired by its use as an elective at UC Berkeley in the US, seeks to use it as a tool to teach traditional Chinese culture.
“I want to promote the Three Kingdoms Kill game through this course by using a new format to explain traditional culture and guide students to read the real history of China,” Rao told China Youth Daily.
As niche courses become more prevalent in China, Rao added: “The new forms of university elective courses represent a reform. As long as the courses are substantive and can educate while entertaining, they are acceptable.”


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Bizarre China university courses include Harry Potter, manga character Detective Conan

Academics across China have introduced bizarre and quirky university courses which aim to engage and educate students in equal measure. Photo: SCMP composite/IMDb/Shutterstock/YouTube

The unusually-themed courses aim to engage students to difficult subjects. Photo: Shutterstock

The Harry Potter franchise-themed course is a big hit with students. Photo: Warner Bros Pictures

The Japanese manga series Detective Conan-inspired classes help students understand chemistry. Photo: Handout

One of the quirky courses uses food through the ages to teach history. Photo: Shutterstock

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People & Culture

Academics across nation introduce quirky, fun, engaging classes that see students learn difficult subject matter in unusual ways


Academics across nation introduce quirky, fun, engaging classes that see students learn difficult subject matter in unusual ways.


China education