Studying chinese language abroad
What is Chinese?
Chinese is a group of related languages spoken by over a billion people, with Mandarin being the most widely used. Learning Chinese allows you to communicate with people across China, Taiwan, Singapore, and other regions, and to understand the culture, history, and society of these areas.
The subject combines language learning, literature, culture, and communication studies. As a Chinese student, you will develop skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking, while also exploring grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation. Your studies may include classical texts, modern literature, media, and everyday conversation, offering a mix of academic and practical experiences.
Why study Chinese abroad?
Studying Chinese in a country where it is spoken provides the opportunity to practise the language in daily life and experience the culture directly. You might navigate local markets, attend traditional festivals, or visit historic landmarks. Such immersion improves language ability and gives insight into how culture and society influence communication.
Studying abroad also broadens your understanding of Chinese-speaking communities and regional differences. You will enhance cross-cultural communication skills and form connections with teachers, fellow students, and professionals in the field.
What you will study
Chinese courses often balance classroom learning with practical application. Key areas of study can include:
- Mandarin Chinese: developing proficiency in the most commonly spoken dialect.
- Regional Dialects: understanding other varieties of Chinese, such as Cantonese or Hokkien.
- Chinese Literature: exploring classical and modern works, including poetry, novels, and essays.
- Translation and Interpretation: learning to convert texts and speech between Chinese and other languages accurately.
- Media and Communication: using Chinese in journalism, social media, and professional communication.
- Cultural Studies: examining history, philosophy, and traditions of Chinese-speaking societies.
- Research and Analysis: analysing texts, media, and language trends critically.
Many programmes also offer internships, study trips, or exchanges with local communities to enhance practical learning.
Related subjects you might also like:
- East Asian Studies
- Linguistics
- International Relations
- Comparative Literature
- Business Chinese
Accreditation
At undergraduate level, you may graduate with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Chinese, East Asian Studies, or Modern Languages. Some universities offer joint degrees such as Chinese with International Business or Chinese with Politics.
Postgraduate options include Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Research (MRes) in Chinese, Translation, Linguistics, or Cultural Studies. Specialisations could focus on literature, teaching Chinese as a foreign language, interpretation, or media. A PhD is often required for advanced research or academic positions.
Professional accreditation is available for translators, interpreters, and language educators through recognised industry organisations, enhancing your career prospects.
Careers
A degree in Chinese can open doors to careers in diplomacy, education, international business, media, and government. Graduates may become translators, interpreters, language teachers, or cultural consultants.
Others may pursue roles in journalism, research, international organisations, or non-governmental agencies, where knowledge of Chinese is essential for communication and cultural understanding.
You could also work in tourism, international trade, or security analysis, using your language and cultural skills to connect with people across Chinese-speaking regions. Studying Chinese abroad equips you with practical experience, linguistic ability, and cultural knowledge, creating opportunities to work globally.