Chinese Studies
About the major
China is one of the world’s great civilisations, comparable to European and Middle Eastern traditions. The Chinese Studies program will provide you with a solid understanding of Chinese society and culture, essential language skills for confidence in the Chinese-speaking world, and a basic ability to work in China-related professions and conduct research in Chinese Studies.
This program adopts a comprehensive and innovative approach to teaching Modern and Classical Chinese language and culture. The curriculum offers structured pathways at Introductory, Intermediate, and Advanced levels, ensuring tailored instruction that meets diverse proficiency levels and academic goals. The curriculum emphasises developing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills through classroom practices, extracurricular activities, and study abroad or in-country programs. In-class engagement is fostered through active learning techniques such as interactive lectures, group projects, and online interactive simulations. The extracurricular activities, including the weekly language exchange program "Chinese Table" and the bi-weekly cultural exchange program "Chinese Chair”, encourage collaboration and foster a sense of community and belonging. These programs have been well established for over a decade and are highly appreciated by students. Additionally, the program offers a variety of study abroad/in-country opportunities through partnerships with top-tier universities in China, including Peking University, Fudan University, and Wuhan University, providing short-term intensive Chinese language and culture programs.
Whether you are an absolute beginner in the language, have some level of Chinese language proficiency from high school, or are a native speaker of Chinese language, you can major in Chinese Studies and pursue an Honours degree or postgraduate study. Graduates may pursue careers in international relations, multinational corporations, media, tourism, NGOs, academic research, and education relating to China.
Requirements for completion
The Chinese Studies major and minor are available via the pathways indicated below.
Students will follow the appropriate pathway specified in the unit of study tables, based on their individual language level*. Students completing any of the pathways below will be awarded a major or minor in Chinese Studies.
* Appropriate language units are determined either by language level and grade therein achieved in Higher School Certificate (as listed in the pathways linked above) or International Baccalaureate, and/or by one-on-one placement interviews prior to commencement. If you are unsure of your language level or which pathway is appropriate for you, please contact the Chair of Chinese Studies for advice.
Please note: A ‘gap’ year after Year 12 does not normally affect placement.
Advanced coursework
Requirements and units of study for advanced coursework can be found on the advanced coursework units of study page.
Honours
The Honours program in Chinese Studies will provide you with an opportunity to engage in in-depth study of social, political, cultural, literary or linguistic topics related to Chinese Studies.
All students with good academic records in Chinese Studies should consider an honours year. There will be a range of options for students with different levels of Chinese language proficiency and research interest. However, the more Chinese you have learned before you start, the more interesting options that will be available to you.
Honours admission requirements
Admission to honours is via the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) and requires the completion of a major in Chinese Studies with an average of 70 percent or above.
Prior to commencing, you will need to ensure you have completed all other requirements of the Bachelor of Arts or other bachelor degree, including Open Learning Environment (OLE) units. For pre-July 2024 students, where undertaking Bachelor of Advanced Studies, a second major is also required.
Requirements and units of study for honours can be found on the Chinese Studies honours units of study page.
Contacts and further information
More information and current contact details for academic coordinators can be found at:
