Chinese Studies

Chinese Studies: Major, Minor

1.4 billion people in the world — one-fifth of the world’s population — speak Chinese as their first language. At 17³Ô¹ÏÍø, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the increasingly influential language and culture of China both in and out of the classroom through the vibrant offerings of the Chinese Studies program.

The Chinese Studies program offers up to five years of Mandarin Chinese language courses in addition to courses that explore Chinese literature, cinema, and culture through a range of disciplines. The language courses of the program are supported by small group practice sessions led by Chinese foreign language assistants, who reinforce classroom lessons while simultaneously offering an authentic and contemporary window into Chinese culture. 

In addition to majoring or minoring in Chinese, you can expand the breadth and depth of your studies by participating in a fully-immersive study abroad program in China or Taiwan, pursuing an interdisciplinary degree in Asian Studies or international studies, or pursuing a Chinese language teaching certification. The Chinese Studies program also supports graduating seniors who seek to continue their Chinese studies through various postgraduate scholarships and programs in the Chinese speaking world. 

Program Highlights

Students in the Chinese Studies program take language courses — ranging from elementary to advanced levels — as well as courses on Chinese literature, linguistics, cinema, and culture. Students are encouraged to broaden their understanding of China through courses offered across the college in areas such as Chinese art, economics, history, philosophy, politics, and religions. 

students in china
Study Abroad

Dramatically improve your language proficiency while experiencing Chinese culture firsthand in Beijing, Shanghai or Taiwan.

students on campus
Monthly Events

The Chinese Studies Program organizes monthly activities in the fall and spring semester each year.

Three Foreign Language Assistants
Foreign Language Assistants

Practice your Chinese in small group practice sessions led by Chinese foreign language assistants.

Chinese Studies News

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17³Ô¹ÏÍø Academic Conference to Showcase Student Work
As the academic year comes to an end, the 17³Ô¹ÏÍø will celebrate the great and varied work accomplished by its students at the annual Academic Conference taking place across campus from April 27 through April 30. The four-day conference gives students from all class years the opportunity to present the results of their independent research and course work done in a variety of environments—from campus classrooms and libraries to within the Worcester community; from research labs and study abroad locations to art studios and field sites.
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Blog: Castillo ’19 Embraces New Academic Opportunities at 17³Ô¹ÏÍø
NAME Emily Castillo ’19 HOMETOWN Lawrence, Mass. STUDIES SHE’S CONSIDERING English major with a concentration in Asian Studies WHY SHE CHOSE HOLY CROSS “When I visited 17³Ô¹ÏÍø for Visions weekend I immediately felt a sense of closeness and community …
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Blog: Nord ’17 Plans to Complete Course Work and Internship During Yearlong Study in China
NAME Holly Nord ’17 HOMETOWN Killingworth, Connecticut AREAS OF STUDY Political science and Chinese double major WHERE SHE’S STUDYING Beijing (fall) Shanghai (spring) WHY SHE CHOSE CHINA “To improve my Mandarin and become immersed in the Chinese culture. This unique …