Central South University
Changsha, China • Founded 1914 • World Rank #17
Overview
Established in 1914, the Central South University is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the urban setting of the metropolis of Changsha (population range of 1,000,000-5,000,000 inhabitants), Hunan.
Officially recognized by the Ministry of Education of The People's Republic of China, Central South University (CSU) is a very large-sized coeducational Chinese higher education institution. Central South University (CSU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor's degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.
This 110-year-old Chinese higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 70-79% making this Chinese higher education organization a moderately selective institution.
International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment.
CSU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
Central South University's street address and primary contact methods. Social channels often differentiate by purpose — admissions on one, alumni on another, events on a third.
Academic Details
The basic academic profile of Central South University, including enrolment and faculty composition. Total student count fluctuates intake-to-intake; treat the figure as approximate rather than precise.
Academic Structures
Central South University delivers teaching through the academic units below — useful for orienting yourself before reading individual programmes. Each unit operates with a degree of academic autonomy.
Unit 24 items
- Institute of Powder Metallurgy Research
- School of Art Studies
- School of Business
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- School of Civil Engineering and Architecture
- School of Energy and Dynamic Engineering
- School of Geoscience and Environmental Engineering
- School of Information Physics Engineering
- School of Information Science and Engineering
- School of International Education
- School of Literature
- School of Material Science and Engineering
- School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering
- School of Metallurgy and Engineering
- School of Minerals Processing and Bioengineering
- School of Nursing
- School of Pharmaceutical Science
- School of Physics
- School of Political Science and Administrative Management
- School of Preclinical Science, The First, Second and Third Clinical Hospitals
- School of Public Health
- School of Resources and Safety Engineering
- School of Stomatology
- School of Traffic and Transportation Engineering
Degrees
Central South University's degree range. Credit-recognition across borders depends on the level and the qualification framework; check whether your home system accepts Central South University's credits.
Bachelor's 8 programs
Bachelor's programmes build foundational expertise, preparing graduates for entry-level professional roles and further postgraduate study.
- Architecture
- Arts and Humanities
- Computer Science
- Economics
- Engineering
- Law
- Management
- Mathematics
Master's 128 programs
Master's programmes develop advanced specialised expertise, suited to senior industry positions and applied research.
- Accountancy
- Administrative Law
- African Languages
- Agronomy
- Analytical Chemistry
- Anatomy
- Ancient Civilizations
- Anthropology
- Applied Linguistics
- Arabic
- Archaeology
- Architectural and Environmental Design
- Architecture
- Archiving
- Automotive Engineering
- Biochemistry
- Biomedical Engineering
- Biophysics
- Botany
- Business Administration
- Cell Biology
- Chemical Engineering
- Chinese
- Civil Engineering
- Communication Arts
- Comparative Literature
- Computer Science
- Constitutional Law
- Contemporary History
- Criminal Law
- Curriculum
- Demography and Population
- Dermatology
- Developmental Psychology
- Ecology
- Econometrics
- Economics
- Educational Technology
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Electronics and Automation
- Embryology and Reproduction Biology
- Engineering Drawing and Design
- English Studies
- Environmental Engineering
- Ethics
- Eurasian and North Asian Languages
- European Languages
- Fine Arts
- Folklore
- Food Science
- French Studies
- Genetics
- Geological Engineering
- Geology
- Germanic Studies
- Gerontology
- Higher Education
- Hindi
- Immunology
- Information Sciences
- Information Technology
- Inorganic Chemistry
- Insurance
- International Business
- International Economics
- International Law
- International Relations and Diplomacy
- Japanese
- Landscape Architecture
- Law
- Library Science
- Linguistics
- Literature
- Logic
- Marine Biology
- Materials Engineering
- Mathematics
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechanics
- Medicine
- Metallurgical Engineering
- Microbiology
- Mining Engineering
- Modern History
- Neurosciences
- Nursing
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology
- Oncology
- Operations Research
- Ophthalmology
- Optics
- Organic Chemistry
- Otorhinolaryngology
- Paediatrics
- Pathology
- Pharmacology
- Pharmacy
- Philosophical Schools
- Philosophy
- Philosophy of Education
- Physical Chemistry
- Plant and Crop Protection
- Political Sciences
- Power Engineering
- Psychiatry and Mental Health
- Psychology
- Public Administration
- Radiology
- Rehabilitation and Therapy
- Religious Studies
- Russian
- Social and Preventive Medicine
- Sociology
- Software Engineering
- Sound Engineering (Acoustics)
- Spanish
- Statistics
- Stomatology
- Surgery
- Surveying and Mapping
- Taxation
- Telecommunications Engineering
- Traditional Eastern Medicine
- Transport Engineering
- Vegetable Production
- Venereology
- Zoology
Doctoral 50 programs
Doctoral programmes train independent researchers, leading to academic, scientific, and senior advisory careers.
- Accountancy
- Anaesthesiology
- Analytical Chemistry
- Automotive Engineering
- Biochemistry
- Bioengineering
- Biophysics
- Botany
- Business Administration
- Cell Biology
- Civil Engineering
- Computer Science
- Cultural Studies
- Dermatology
- Electronics and Automation
- Embryology and Reproduction Biology
- Engineering Management
- English Studies
- Ethics
- Genetics
- Geology
- Gerontology
- Heating and Refrigeration
- Materials Engineering
- Mathematics
- Mechanics
- Metallurgical Engineering
- Microbiology
- Molecular Biology
- Neurology
- Neurosciences
- Nursing
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology
- Oncology
- Ophthalmology
- Otorhinolaryngology
- Paediatrics
- Pharmacy
- Philosophical Schools
- Plastic Surgery
- Psychiatry and Mental Health
- Psychology
- Radiology
- Social and Preventive Medicine
- Statistics
- Stomatology
- Surgery
- Thermal Physics
- Tourism
- Venereology
Faculties & Divisions
All faculties operate under Ministry of Education of The People's Republic of China.
Art (School) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Fine Arts
Business (School) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Business Administration
Common Career Paths
- Business Analyst
- Operations Manager
- Strategy Consultant
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Chemistry and Chemical Engineering (School) 2 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Chemical Engineering
- Chemistry
Common Career Paths
- Process Engineer
- Plant Manager
- Materials Specialist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Chinese Language and Literature (School) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Civil Engineering and Architecture (School) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Civil Engineer
- Construction Project Manager
- Structural Engineer
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Energy and Power Engineering (School) 2 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Energy Engineering
- Power Engineering
Common Career Paths
- Engineer
- Project Manager
- Technical Consultant
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Foreign Languages (School) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Modern Languages
Common Career Paths
- Translator
- Interpreter
- Language Teacher
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Fundamental Medicine (School) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Medicine
Common Career Paths
- Physician
- Medical Researcher
- Clinical Specialist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Geoscience and Environmental Engineering (School) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Engineer
- Project Manager
- Technical Consultant
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Information Science and Engineering (School) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Engineer
- Project Manager
- Technical Consultant
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Law (School) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Law
Common Career Paths
- Lawyer
- Legal Consultant
- Compliance Officer
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Material Science and Engineering (School) 2 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Engineering
- Materials Engineering
Common Career Paths
- Engineer
- Project Manager
- Technical Consultant
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Mathematical Sciences and Computer Technology (School) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Mathematics and Computer Science
Common Career Paths
- Software Engineer
- Data Scientist
- Systems Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Mechanical and Electrical Engineering (School) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Electrical Engineer
- Power Systems Engineer
- Automation Specialist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Medical Technology (School) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Medical Technology
Common Career Paths
- Physician
- Clinical Researcher
- Healthcare Specialist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Metallurgical Science and Engineering (School) 2 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Engineering
- Metallurgical Engineering
Common Career Paths
- Engineer
- Project Manager
- Technical Consultant
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Nursing (School) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Registered Nurse
- Clinical Nurse
- Public Health Nurse
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Pharmaceutical Sciences (School) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Pharmacy
Common Career Paths
- Research Scientist
- Lab Technician
- Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Physics and Technology (School) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Physicist
- Research Scientist
- Data Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Political Science and Executive Administration (School) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Research Scientist
- Lab Technician
- Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Public Health (School) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Public Health
Common Career Paths
- Public Health Officer
- Epidemiologist
- Health Policy Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Resources and Safety Engineering (School) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Engineer
- Project Manager
- Technical Consultant
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Resources Processing and Bioengineering (School) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Bioengineering
Common Career Paths
- Engineer
- Project Manager
- Technical Consultant
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Stomatology (School) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Traffic and Transport (School) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Transport and Communications
How to apply to Central South University
Below is a five-step path through the application process at Central South University, useful for first-time applicants and international students.
- 1 Research programmes at Central South University
Identify which programmes Central South University offers in your subject area. Decide on the qualification tier you want to pursue, then verify the specific programme exists at the institution.
- 2 Review admissions criteria
Programme-level requirements at Central South University typically include academic transcripts, language proficiency proof, identity documents, and a personal statement or interview. Confirm specific requirements with the admissions office.
- 3 Gather supporting documents
Prepare academic transcripts, ID/passport copies, language proficiency proof, a personal statement, and reference letters. International candidates may need apostilled or notarised translations — start early to avoid deadline pressure.
- 4 Lodge your application
Central South University processes applications through www.csu.edu.cn. Create an account, fill out the application form, and submit your documents. Note application deadlines, which vary by intake and programme.
- 5 Confirm receipt and track progress
Confirm receipt of your application with the admissions office and keep an eye on your portal for status changes. You can reach the institution by email at [email protected] or by phone at +86 (731) 8887 7515. Quick responses to any follow-up requests keep your application moving smoothly through the review process.
Frequently Asked Questions about Central South University
Short Q&A on the institutional facts that matter most when shortlisting Central South University as a study destination.
When did Central South University open?
Central South University traces its founding to 1914 (approximately 112 years ago).
In which city is Central South University?
Central South University is based in Changsha, China.
Is Central South University public or private?
It is a public higher-education institution.
How many students study at Central South University?
Central South University has approximately over-50,000 students.
What is Central South University's ranking?
It ranks #17 globally and #9 in China.
What programmes are available at Central South University?
Programmes at Central South University cover bachelor's, master's and doctoral programmes.
What is Central South University's academic structure?
Central South University has 24 academic units.
Is Central South University officially recognised?
Yes, Central South University is recognised by Ministry of Education.
Where can I learn more about Central South University?
Central South University's official website is www.csu.edu.cn.
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Faculties at Nearby Universities
Industry placements and co-op programmes around Central South University draw on the same regional employer base. The nearby universities listed below often compete for similar internship slots.
Universities Often Compared with Central South University
Beyond Central South University, several other universities operate at a comparable level — by ranking, heritage, or scale. They are worth knowing as you build your shortlist, particularly if you want options at the same competitive tier.
