Chinese Health and Humanity

This one-year programme is intended for graduates of Chinese Studies programmes and native Chinese speakers who wish to gain further understanding and develop expertise in a range of subjects concerned with Chinese health and wellbeing and the impact of China, historically and in the present day, on health around the world.

This MA offers an interdisciplinary approach to health in China including history of medicine in China, population studies, the built and natural environment, climate change, law and medical ethics, public health and policy making. Intensive training in academic English and translation for publication online is provided.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of one core course (15 credits), direct reading and translation modules (60 credits), dissertation (60 credits) and two or three options or elective modules (45 credits).

Core modules

• Core Course: An Interdisciplinary Approach to China: Health and Humanity
• Translation and Direct Reading
• Dissertation (see below)

Optional modules

• History of Chinese Medicine I: the Classical World and its Legacy
• History of Chinese Medicine II: from Song Public Health to the Chinese Medical Diaspora
• Chinese Health and Heritage
• Chinese Law and Health
• Chinese Film and the Body
• Chinese Nutrition: History, Culture and Society
• Elective Modules within SOAS, Institute of Global Health, and Anthropology
• Suitable elective module from other departments at UCL

NB: Not all options will be available every year.

Dissertation/report

All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of up to 12,000 words.

Teaching and learning

The programme is taught by specialists in the field and is delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials, seminars, presentations, workshops and direct reading. Assessment is through examination, presentations, essays and the dissertation.

A minimum of an upper second-class Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard.

Funding options for the Chinese Health and Humanity programme at University College London primarily encompass a variety of scholarships, financial aid packages, and competitive funding schemes designed to support international and domestic students. Prospective students are encouraged to explore university-wide scholarships such as the UCL Global Excellence Scholarships, which offer substantial financial support to outstanding applicants regardless of nationality. Additionally, specific funding opportunities may be available through government schemes, external organizations, or research grants aligned with health and humanities disciplines. UCL also provides departmental scholarships and bursaries that students enrolled in the Chinese Health and Humanity programme can apply for, aimed at alleviating tuition costs and living expenses. Applicants might consider applying for the Chevening Scholarships, which are highly competitive awards funded by the UK government for international students demonstrating leadership potential and academic excellence, including those pursuing health-related and humanities postgraduate studies. Furthermore, students are encouraged to investigate external funding options such as the Confucius Institute Scholarships or Chinese government scholarship programs, which sometimes support students studying health and cultural subjects related to China. The university’s financial support services also assist students in identifying and applying for research grants and project funding relevant to their academic interests within the Chinese Health and Humanity domain. It is advisable for students to consult the UCL Financial Support Office and the specific department's webpage regularly for updated information on available scholarships, application deadlines, and eligibility criteria. Overall, while tuition fees for the programme depend on the student's residency status and course specifics, funding opportunities at UCL are structured to promote accessibility for talented students aiming to explore Chinese health and humanities topics in a global academic environment, thereby enabling students to pursue their academic objectives without undue financial hardship.

The MSc in Chinese Health and Humanity at University College London (UCL) offers students an in-depth exploration of traditional and modern Chinese health practices, integrating the study of Chinese medicine with contemporary health issues. The programme is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of Chinese medical theories, including TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) concepts such as yin-yang, qi (chi), and the five elements, alongside their application in clinical practice and healthcare systems. Students will examine the historical development of Chinese medicine, its cultural contexts, and its influence on health and healing in contemporary society. The course covers diverse topics, including acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary therapy, and the integration of Chinese health practices into global healthcare models.

The program combines academic coursework with practical components, such as clinical placements or case studies, allowing students to observe and participate in Chinese health practices within relevant settings. Emphasis is placed on critical analysis, research skills, and the ethical considerations of practicing Chinese medicine in multicultural environments. The programme also explores the broader implications of Chinese health philosophies for wellbeing, preventive healthcare, and holistic approaches to health management. Students will have access to UCL's extensive resources, including specialized libraries, research centers, and expert faculty members renowned in the fields of Chinese medicine, anthropology, and healthcare.

Graduates of this programme are prepared for careers in healthcare, research, policy development, or further academic study in medical anthropology, public health, or complementary and alternative medicine. They will gain skills in cross-cultural communication and an understanding of how traditional health practices can complement Western medicine, contributing to improved healthcare delivery and cultural competence. The MSc is suitable for students from health sciences, anthropology, history, or Asian studies backgrounds, aiming to deepen their knowledge of Chinese health systems and practices. Overall, this programme at UCL provides a unique interdisciplinary approach, blending traditional Chinese health theories with modern scientific insights, fostering a nuanced understanding of health, healing, and human wellbeing across cultural boundaries.