An exploratory study of corporate universities in China

Abstract

Purpose – The main purpose of this paper is to examine the empirical status of corporate universities (CUs) in China. An a priori CU framework was employed in an attempt to describe the key functions that an ideal type of CU in China should perform.Design/methodology/approach – Three case studies were conducted to test the relevance of this framework across the three major forms of ownership in China: a Sino‐foreign joint venture (JV); a wholly owned foreign subsidiary corporation (WOFE); and a state‐owned enterprise (SOE).Findings – It was found that both of the CU case organizations with foreign investment fulfilled the functions outlined in the a priori CU framework. However, certain sub‐processes were either missing or nebulous in the case of the SOE. Certain pre‐conditions must be present before the framework could be fully applied.Practical implications – A successful CU requires continuous learning and self‐reflection. With greater understanding of the CU practices and development in China, it will...