China and Development

Module description

This second year undergraduate module provides students with a historical and contemporary analysis of economic, institutional, political, and social developments in China. The module begins with an investigation into the reasons why and how China evolved from a socialist to a state-led market economy to issues of institutions, governance, and policy-making. The module then addresses issues in social welfare policy. We conclude with a discussion of China's re-integration into the global economy, the role of the state in international trade, the government's global economic aspirations and prospects for development. This module will therefore provide students with a firm understanding of the historical and contemporary economic, political, and social processes shaping China's development Trajectory.

Assessment details

• Group Presentation & Coursework

Educational aims & objectives

This module aims to:

• Educate students on the various theoretical approaches to understanding, analysing, and explaining the relationship between states and markets in China.
• Expose students to the history of political and economic development, as well as the policy-making process, in China.
• Familiarise students with the different contexts, experiences and outcomes of the development agenda in modern China.
• Introduce students to highly debated contemporary policy issues in China, such as global integration, social welfare policy, and environmental policy.
• Enable students to think critically about economic and social development in China.

Learning outcomes

On completion of this module, students will have:

• Understood the historical context of political, economic, and social development in China.
• Understood the changing role of the state and other key social actors in China.
• Understood how China’s development trajectory has transformed over the years, particularly from a predominantly state-owned to a state-led market model of development.
• Developed a keen understanding of the contemporary policy debates in China.
• Acquired the knowledge and skills needed to critically analyse the political and policy-making process in China. 

Teaching pattern

One lecture and seminar per week. 

Module description disclaimer

King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

Please note that the module descriptions above are related to the current academic year and are subject to change.