China's universities have eliminated nearly a third of degree programmes since 2021, replacing them with technology and AI-focused majors, reported Hong Kong's China Economic Review.

Ministry of Education data show that between 2021 and 2025, institutions revoked or suspended 12,200 undergraduate courses while introducing 10,200 new ones. The reshuffle means more than 30 per cent of programmes were adjusted nationwide.

Cuts were concentrated in arts, humanities, foreign languages, and management, fields increasingly seen as oversaturated. New majors include embodied intelligence, aligning with Beijing's drive to integrate next-generation AI into the economy.

Observers note the overhaul reflects China's economic priorities, aiming to equip students with practical skills for technology-related employment. Nine universities have already added embodied intelligence courses.

Critics warn that sidelining humanities could weaken critical thinking, a skill that may prove vital in the age of AI. While bureaucrats view humanities as redundant compared with STEM subjects, analysts argue questioning and analytical skills remain essential.

The restructuring highlights China's preference for a top-down model of governance, prioritising economic alignment over diversity in education. Commentators say this approach risks ignoring the long-term value of critical thinking in a society increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence.