Adjustment of central bank policies and the establishment of fintech programs in higher education institutions

• This paper examines how central bank fintech policy affects establishment of fintech programs in higher education by constructing a comprehensive database of fintech programs within Chinese universities based on enrollment data from these institutions spanning from 2017 to 2023. • First, the implementation of central bank fintech policies fosters an increase in the number of fintech programs offered by colleges and universities, thereby aligning educational offerings more closely with evolving talent demands within the fintech industry . • Second, factors such as the number of fintech enterprises and societal attention toward this sector play crucial roles in this dynamic process, with enterprises count having a stronger effect. • Third, Results remain robust after placebo and variable replacement tests. Global fintech policy evolution drives cross-industry talent demand, prompting universities to urgently enhance fintech program offerings. Utilizing enrollment data from Chinese universities spanning from 2017 to 2023, this paper constructs a comprehensive database of fintech majors within these institutions. This study reveals that the central bank fintech policies have significantly stimulated the expansion of fintech programs in Chinese universities, thereby aligning curricula with industry needs. The quantity of fintech enterprise, governmental influence, and societal engagement critically shape this process, with active firms notably promoting specialized academic development. Policy adjustments have a heterogeneous impact on program establishment, with universities in the eastern region demonstrating a particularly heightened responsiveness. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers in harmonizing education-industry frameworks.