The purpose of this study is to explore the factors influencing the sustainable development of Sino-foreign cooperative universities in Zhejiang Province, China. The research data was collected from semi-structured interviews with 10 staff members currently employed at Sino-foreign cooperative universities, including 4 senior management personnel and 6 active teachers. Analysis of the interview content revealed that factors influencing the sustainable development of these universities encompass both external and internal dimensions. Externally, they are influenced by government support, evaluation systems, admission policies, and geopolitical factors. Internally, they are affected by program offerings, the quality of talent cultivation, faculty strength, and internal governance. Overall, the universities demonstrate significant strengths, and their prospects for sustainable development are optimistic.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0790/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>