China has released its first set of guidelines outlining criteria and requirements for those applying for doctorates in engineering, according to the Ministry of Education.

The pilot document containing the guidelines encompasses provisions on the scope and quality of dissertations for candidates pursuing a professional engineering doctorate in order to enhance talent cultivation. It also introduces criteria and protocols for awarding the degree based on practical achievements.

The guidelines follow the passage of a law on academic degrees by China's national legislature in April. The law, set to take effect next year, allows graduate students to earn their degrees either through a thesis or by submitting required practice-oriented outputs.

The new guidelines require dissertations to focus on engineering applications and applied research, highlighting the applicants' proficiency in fundamental theory, specialized knowledge and independent professional practice.

They stressed that doctorate applications based on practical achievements should include tangible deliverables and a written summary report.

China regards education, science and technology, and talent development as the fundamental and strategic foundations for modernization. The country has strived to promote the integrated reform of institutions and mechanisms related to these areas in order to boost innovation.

According to an official with the Office of the State Council Academic Degrees Committee, the guidelines emphasize not only the ability of engineering doctoral students to independently engage in professional practice, but also the importance of innovation and diversity.

Experts said the newly unveiled guidelines underscore the training focus and standards of professional degrees, emphasizing practice-based innovation capabilities.

The regulation will apply to eight categories of professional degrees, including electronic information, mechanical engineering, materials and chemicals, and energy and power engineering.