The Imperial University of Peking was founded in 1898 during the Hundred Days’ Reform. It was the first comprehensive university established by the central government and the first modern national university in China. Its educational philosophy was “Chinese learning as the essence, Western learning for practical use.” After the abolition of the imperial examination system, it became the sole official higher education institution, and the precursor to both Peking University and Beijing Normal University.

 

This diploma, issued by the university’s Higher Division, records not only the student’s academic performance, but also his age, birthplace, and three generations of family lineage. The listed courses reflect the early framework of a modern school curriculum.