Chinese Language Program

The Chinese Language Program at Zhejiang University offers a comprehensive and immersive learning experience designed to develop students’ proficiency in Mandarin Chinese, deepen their understanding of Chinese culture, and prepare them for international careers in fields such as business, diplomacy, education, and cultural exchange. This program is carefully structured to cater to both undergraduate and graduate students who wish to acquire a high level of language skills along with cultural competence. Through a combination of rigorous coursework, practical language practice, cultural activities, and multimedia resources, students gain mastery of Chinese pronunciation, vocabulary, grammar, and idiomatic expressions, enabling effective communication in a variety of contexts.

The curriculum emphasizes not only linguistic skills but also intercultural understanding, enabling students to navigate the social and cultural nuances that are essential for meaningful engagement with Chinese society. Courses include Chinese Language and Culture, advanced Chinese Reading and Writing, Chinese Listening and Speaking, Chinese Business Language, Chinese for Specific Purposes, and Chinese Literature. In addition to classroom instruction, students participate in language immersion activities, cultural excursions, and exchanges with native speakers, which help reinforce their language acquisition and foster cross-cultural awareness.

Zhejiang University’s program is supported by experienced faculty who are native speakers or highly proficient in Chinese linguistics and pedagogy, ensuring high-quality instruction tailored to various proficiency levels. The university’s state-of-the-art language labs, multimedia learning resources, and extensive library collections provide students with ample opportunities to practice and expand their language skills outside the classroom.

Students also have opportunities to engage in internships, research projects, and international exchanges, further enhancing their practical experience and global perspective. Graduates of the Chinese Language Program will be equipped with the language skills, cultural understanding, and intercultural communication abilities necessary to pursue careers in China-related fields, future academic endeavors, or international correspondence. Zhejiang University’s Chinese Language Program is committed to fostering linguistic excellence and cultural literacy, helping students become confident global citizens prepared to succeed in an increasingly interconnected world.

A. Major Language Courses:
Elementary Level (Grade 1-3): Intensive Reading, Practical Conversation,  Listening Comprehension, Extensive Reading, etc.
Intermediate Level  (Grade 4-5): Intensive Reading, Listening and Conversation, Practical Writing,  Extensive Reading, etc.
Advanced Level (Grade 6-7): Intensive Reading,  Advanced Comprehensive Chinese, Practical Writing, Extensive Reading,  etc.
B. Elective Courses:
1. Taiji    2. Gong-fu    3. Chinese  Calligraphy     4. Traditional Chinese Painting     5. Survey of China  6.  Ancient Chinese Language        7. Study of Chinese Character          8.  Traditional Chinese Operas    9. Chinese Culture        10. Chinese  Literature         11. History of China       12. Chinese Economy
C.  Lecture Series:
a) Art and Culture: 1. Chinese Customs       2. Chinese  Tourism     3. Traditional Chinese Medicine    4. Chinese Folk Music    5.  Appreciation of Cultural Relics        6. Chinese Calligraphy and Painting       7. Tea Culture and Chinese Cuisine Culture       8. Chinese Drama
b)  Social Science: 1. Chinese Philosophy      2. Education in China       3.  Chinese Aesthetics         4. Chinese Society        5. Chinese Politics and  Laws       6. Traditional   Chinese Religions
C) Economic and Business  Management: 1. Survey of Chinese Economy       2. Marketing in China    3.  Management of China-foreign Joint Ventures      4. Doing Business with China     5. International Trade

Applicants must be above the age of 18, in good  physical and psychological condition.

Outstanding studying students have  opportunities of getting Zhejiang University Chinese Language  Scholarship.

The Chinese Language Program at Zhejiang University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive and immersive learning experience in Chinese language and culture. The program aims to enhance students' proficiency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing in Chinese, while also offering insights into the rich history, cultural practices, and societal norms of China. Zhejiang University, one of China's oldest and most prestigious institutions, prides itself on its strong language departments and its commitment to international education.

Students enrolled in this program are introduced to modern Chinese language instruction, including vocabulary expansion, grammar mastery, conversational skills, and Chinese character recognition. The curriculum often integrates cultural modules such as Chinese literature, arts, traditional music, and philosophy to foster a deeper understanding of the context in which the language is used. This holistic approach not only improves language competence but also develops global cultural awareness and cross-cultural communication skills.

The program is typically suitable for a wide range of students, from beginners with no prior knowledge of Chinese to those seeking to improve their existing language skills for academic, professional, or personal purposes. Zhejiang University employs qualified native and international instructors with extensive experience in teaching Chinese as a second language. The teaching methods include classroom lectures, multimedia resources, language labs, and practical language use through conversation practice and cultural excursions.

International students in the Chinese Language Program often participate in cultural activities such as calligraphy workshops, traditional Chinese cooking classes, and excursions to historical sites. These activities are designed to enhance experiential learning and cultural appreciation. The program also offers opportunities for internships, research projects, and collaborations with local communities, which help students apply their language skills in real-world contexts.

Furthermore, Zhejiang University’s strategic location in Hangzhou, a city renowned for its natural beauty and cultural heritage, provides an ideal environment for immersive language learning. The city’s vibrant student community and cultural festivals offer additional avenues for practicing Chinese and engaging with local traditions.

The program duration can vary depending on the student’s goals, ranging from short-term language courses to full academic year programs. Students graduate with a language proficiency certificate recognized by educational authorities and often receive credits transferable to other degree programs within Zhejiang University or partner institutions.

Overall, the Chinese Language Program at Zhejiang University is committed to fostering bilingual competence, cultural literacy, and intercultural understanding, preparing students for careers in international relations, business, education, or further academic pursuits related to China and its global influence.