Shandong University is one of the oldest and prestigious universities in China . Shandong University was founded in 1901 and is the second national university established soon after Jingshi University (the Metropolitan University) in the country. Recently, the Ministry of Education approved the university as a ?national key comprehensive university.? In 2001, it was listed among the 21 national key construction first-class universities by the Ministry of Education. Situated in Jinan , capital city of Shandong Province , Shandong University covers an area of 3.849 square kilometers. The province is located on the east coastal part of China and the lower reach of Yellow River. Not only is it one of the most economically developed coastal provinces in China, but also a major contributor to the ancient Chinese culture?the auspicious birthplace of Qilu culture. Shandong University consists of 31 schools/colleges and a graduate school. Courses are offered in 11 main academic disciplines:MORE