Chinese and Linguistics, MA (Hons)

As the world’s second most widely spoken language, Mandarin Chinese and its cultures profoundly shape the contemporary world. This four-year joint honours programme in Chinese and Linguistics enables you to master Modern Standard Chinese—offered at ab initio, upper beginner, or intermediate levels (welcoming heritage learners but not native speakers)—while exploring Chinese studies and linguistic science. You will develop advanced skills in reading, writing, speaking, listening, and translation, spending Year 3 immersed in mainland China or Taiwan. Courses cover China, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, and diasporas across history, literature, culture, politics, and international relations, with optional Classical Chinese; linguistics examines sociolinguistics, language variation, acquisition, Global Englishes, and scientific analysis using specialist equipment.The first two pre-honours years provide grounding and flexible options across disciplines to build intercultural awareness. Honours years tailor to your interests, combining practical language with theoretical insights. Unique in Scotland, the programme offers societies, exceptional libraries, and the chance to explore diverse subjects.