Chinese, BA

The Chinese program offers students a range of courses and activities which impart an understanding of the culture and civilization of China. With the completion of three basic years of the language, students will be prepared to handle various types of colloquial Chinese. Most majors pursue advanced studies in Chinese linguistics or literature, while others combine an interest in China with a degree in business, education, engineering or journalism. For more information about the Department of Asian Languages and Cultures visit the department overview.

Study Abroad in China

Students may receive residence credit for study abroad through a variety of different programs sponsored by the department. Please contact International Academic Programs for details.Students may also receive credit, or gain experience, through various internship opportunities abroad. Please contact International Internship Programs for details.

Starting Coursework towards the Major

Before declaring the major, students are urged to begin coursework early, ideally in the freshman or sophomore year. If, however, this is not possible, summer courses at UW–Madison or elsewhere are available which speed the student's progress. Those who have Chinese credits from high school or summer sessions may enter advanced courses on the basis of placement tests.The following courses may be taken with no previous knowledge of Chinese or Japanese:

Course List

Code	Title	Credits
E ASIAN 101	First Semester Chinese	6
E ASIAN 103	First Semester Japanese	6
E ASIAN 121	Elementary Chinese	3
E ASIAN 123	Elementary Japanese	3
E ASIAN 253	Introduction to Japanese Culture and Civilization	3
E ASIAN 341 & E ASIAN 342	Classical Chinese for Non-Majors and Classical Chinese for Non-Majors	8
E ASIAN/​RELIG ST  350	Introduction to Taoism	3-4
E ASIAN/​RELIG ST  363	Introduction to Confucianism	3
E ASIAN 367	Japanese Poetic Tradition	3-4
E ASIAN 371	Topics in Chinese Literature	2-3
E ASIAN 434	Introduction to Japanese Linguistics	3
LITTRANS 261 & LITTRANS 262	Survey of Chinese Literature in Translation and Survey of Chinese Literature in Translation	6
LITTRANS 263 & LITTRANS 264	Survey of Japanese Literature in Translation and Survey of Japanese Literature in Translation	6
LITTRANS 368	Modern Japanese Fiction	3
LITTRANS 372	Classical Japanese Prose in Translation	3
LITTRANS 373	Topics in Japanese Literature	3