China M visa duration

Hello,

I intend to complete a postgraduate program in Shanghai starting in september. Unfortunately, the university is not able to sponsor student Xs, and they have recommended to use a tourist L. The program is one year long, and at least for Italian citizens, I cannot obtain a tourist visa of that length. With an M how long would I be able to stay per visit and how likely is it to obtain a 1 year visa?
Thanks!