Universities in China have struck a deal with Bradford Business School to help their students achieve a more prestigious degree.

Delegates from six Chinese universities yesterday visited the city to finalise an agreement to adopt courses designed by the school.

The partnership will enable overseas pupils to spend at least a year in Bradford and complete a business degree with a British seal of approval.

Staff at Bradford Business School - which is part of Bradford College - will provide academic support and moderate the quality of the course.

David Canavan, head of the business school, said it was an important initiative as 800 extra students - paying £12,000 a year in fees and living costs - would help boost the city's economy.

"An estimated £29 million comes into Bradford from overseas students each year. These students go into Bradford shops, they go to the cinema, buy food here and put money into the city," he said.

"There is a demand for British higher education overseas because it is very well respected internationally and they are very keen to work with us."

He said the move followed successful links with Thailand and Malaysia and ensured Bradford Business School had a strong international element.

"In the last two years 17 staff from this department have visited the Pacific so it is a useful opportunity for them to keep up to date with business practice in other countries," he added.

The business school welcomed 12 delegates from areas including the Jiangix, Xian and Wuhan provinces who were given a civic reception at City Hall by Lord Mayor Richard Wightman.

Changhan Li, associate director of the international programme at the university in Shaanxi, said he looked forward to the partnership and had enjoyed visiting Bradford.

"This is a very beautiful city and somewhere our students would enjoy coming. I have been to many cities but Bradford has left an unforgettable impression.