Chinese

A Chinese major not only teaches the Chinese language, but also offers an eye-opening look into the history and culture of China. Unlike romance languages, Chinese is written in ideographs, which students will have to memorize and write each semester. Students will learn about the four tones of speaking in Chinese, as well as study classical and modern Chinese literature. While immersed in the language, students will also study Confucianism, Maoism and the history of the People’s Republic of China, in order to gain a deeper understanding of China’s philosophy, politics and history. A Chinese curriculum will typically consist of four semesters of Chinese language, intensive writing and literature classes, as well as varied Chinese history, philosophy and art classes.

Graduates of a Chinese program are qualified to do various jobs in language, linguistics, literature and international business, where they can utilize their Chinese knowledge and foreign language skills. Many students go on to become secondary or postsecondary school teachers, interpreters, translators and foreign service officers. Learning a brand new language is always a challenge, but students who are ready to be immersed in the language, history and culture of China will be prepared for this degree path.