A study on the effectiveness of an “English+X” bachelor's and master's degree combined program: From the students' perspective

This study attempts to evaluate the effectiveness of a Nanjing University program in which a bachelor's degree in English and a master's degree in economics or law or journalism are combined. An open-ended questionnaire survey was conducted among 68 students enrolled into the program from 2002 to 2006. The results show that in general they consider the program innovative in nature,which has made them excel other graduates with proficient English language skills,high humanistic quality and interdisciplinary knowledge. Furthermore,they speak highly of the humanistic courses specially designed for them. These courses,in their opinion,enable them to develop their views of the world,life and values in a positive light,benefitting them for the rest of their life.