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Xiamen University (XMU, Latin: Universitas Amoiensis, Pinyin: Xiàmén Dàxué, Simplified Chinese: 厦门大学), colloquially known as Xia Da (Pinyin: Xià Dà, Simplified Chinese: 厦大), located in Xiamen, Fujian Province, is the first university in China founded by overseas Chinese. The school motto: "Pursue Excellence, Strive for Perfection (自强不息, 止于至善)".

Statue of Mr.Tan Kah Kee, in front of his memorial hall located in Xiamen University.

In 1919 Mr. Tan Kah Kee (陳嘉庚; Pinyin: Chen Jiageng), the well-known overseas Chinese leader, donated millions of dollars to establish and endow Xiamen University, officially founded in 1921. It is regarded as one of the most prestigious and selective universities in China.

Nanguang Auditorium

Mr. Tan handed over Xiamen University to the government in 1937 due to lack of funds, and the institution subsequently became a national university.

In 1938, at the outbreak of the Second Sino-Japanese War, the university temporary relocated to Changting(长汀) in Min Xi(闽西) county, western Fujian.

At the end of World War II in 1946, Xiamen University moved back to Xiamen and resumed normal operations.

In 1952, Xiamen University became a comprehensive university, and has been designated as a national key university since 1962.

When the Cultural Revolution began in 1966, daily operations at the University were suspended and a subsidiary of faculties moved to Fuzhou, forming the initial polytechnic departments of Fuzhou University.

Xiamen University, with "Kah Kee" building complex in the center and student dorms in the foreground.

XMU at dusk; Xiamen University is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful universities in China.

Xiamen University is famous for its beautiful campus. Located at the foot of the green mountains, facing the blue ocean and surrounded by Xiamen bay. The main campus is picturesque with beautiful scenery and parks. The university has campuses at Jimei and Zhangzhou in addition to the Xiamen campus located in the southern part of Xiamen Island.

At June 1, 2004, Xiamen University had 20 schools containing 43 departments, and many key research institutes.

• School of Humanities
• School of Foreign Languages & Cultures
• School of Law
• School of Public Affairs
• College of Economics
• School of Management
• College of Art Education
• Chemistry & Chemical Engineering College
• School of Physics and Mechanical & Electrical Engineering
• College of Oceanography & Environment
• School of Life Science
• School of Computer and Information Engineering
• School of Mathematics
• Software School
• Medical College
• Department of Architecture
• Overseas Education College
• Adult Education College
• Professional Technical College
• Internet Education College

The XMU Statue on the front gate.

• Chen Jingrun - Mathematician

Zong Chengkui - Biologist

• List of universities in the People's Republic of China
• Global U8 Consortium GU8

• Official Website: Xiamen University (English)
• Xiamen University Info & Photos Xiamen University