Chinese, MA (Hons)

Course summary

Mandarin Chinese is the world's second most widely spoken language. Its associated cultures have helped shape the contemporary world in many ways. Edinburgh is the only university in Scotland to offer an undergraduate single honours MA programme in Chinese. Our programme is also extremely flexible and includes the chance to take option courses from a wide range of disciplines. As well as mainland China, our courses consider the significance of Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan and their diasporas from a range of perspectives. We specialise in teaching students with little or no prior knowledge of the language. Our programme is not for native speakers, but we also welcome students with some experience of studying Chinese and heritage language learners. Skills developmentStudy with us, and you will develop advanced competency in modern standard Chinese. You will gain the skills needed to use the language daily in social and professional settings, focusing on:

• reading

• writing

• speaking

• listening

As well as learning to read both simplified and traditional form characters, you will also learn to read classical Chinese. This makes our programme unique.As you progress, you will learn Chinese-English and English-Chinese translation skills.From the very start of the programme, we will also equip you with the core academic and research skills you will need to make the most of your degree by developing your knowledge of Chinese studies and of China's place in East Asia and globally. Our courses explore:

• history

• literature

• culture

• politics

• international relations

By your final year, you will have gained the skills to produce an independent research project.Study abroadYou will spend Year 3 at a university in mainland China or Taiwan. Through this immersive experience, you will further enhance your skills in Chinese and your understanding of the language in its particular cultural context.

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