Chinese Studies

The Chinese Studies program at Durham University offers students an in-depth exploration of China's rich cultural heritage, historical development, language, society, and contemporary issues. This interdisciplinary course is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of China’s past and present, equipping students with essential linguistic skills and cultural insights that are highly valued in today’s globalized world. The programme combines rigorous academic study with practical language acquisition, allowing students to develop proficiency in Mandarin Chinese while gaining a broad cultural perspective. Throughout the course, students engage with a variety of disciplines including history, politics, literature, philosophy, and economics, providing a well-rounded understanding of Chinese civilization.

The curriculum includes modules on classical and modern Chinese language, Chinese history from ancient times to the present, Chinese politics and economics, Chinese literature and philosophy, and contemporary Chinese society and culture. Students have the opportunity to participate in language immersion programmes, cultural exchange activities, and study abroad placements in China, which enhance linguistic skills and intercultural understanding. The program aims to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and cross-cultural communication, preparing graduates for careers in international business, diplomacy, academia, media, and international NGOs.

Durham’s Chinese Studies degree emphasizes research skills and independent study, encouraging students to undertake original research, often involving primary sources and fieldwork. The faculty comprises expert scholars in Chinese history, language, and culture, providing students with mentorship and academic support throughout their studies. Graduates of the programme are well-equipped to pursue further postgraduate study or enter various professional fields requiring knowledge of China and proficiency in Chinese language and culture. The programme’s blend of linguistic, cultural, and social scientific approaches makes it one of the leading Chinese Studies courses in the UK.

Content

Year 1

You will take a double module in Chinese, including the four skills of reading, writing, speaking and listening, a module in Chinese culture introducing the philosophy, art and literature of China, a module in Chinese history and two option modules from an extensive list.

Core modules:

• Chinese Language 1 (double)
• Introduction to Chinese Culture
• Introduction to Chinese History

Year 2

You will take a double module in Chinese language, including the four skills of reading, writing, speaking and listening, a module in Chinese film, a module in Chinese history and two option modules from an extensive list.

Core modules:

• Chinese Language 2 (double)
• Chinese Cinema
•  Modern China’s Transformations

Year 3

The third year is spent in China studying the language full-time at a Chinese university. You are required to take all the examinations specified by your host university, but the marks for these do not count towards the final degree mark. You will complete a 5,000 word project in English with a 1,000 character abstract in Chinese on some aspect of China, at your choice with guidance from Durham staff.

Year 4

You will take a double module in Chinese language, a single text reading module in Chinese and a 40-credit Dissertation plus one other module, following either the History route or the Modern languages and cultures route.

Core modules:

• Chinese Language 4 (double)
• Chinese Historical & Literary Texts 
• Dissertation

Either History route:

• 40-credit Dissertation in History
• History and Memory in East Asia.

Or MLaC route:

• 40-credit China-related MLaC Dissertation
• 20-credit module from MLaC or another department.

Study Abroad

We attach great importance to your time abroad, during the third year of your degree, which you may spend as an English assistant in a school, as a student in a foreign university, or perhaps in employment with an overseas organisation. This is a time of enormous linguistic and personal development from which you should gain a high level of fluency in your language(s) and enjoy a unique opportunity to make new friends, appreciate new cultures and learn to work and study in new ways. Employers at home and abroad are impressed by the lasting benefits, especially in increased linguistic confidence and general self-motivation. During the year abroad you will complete an academic assignment related to each of the countries in which you stay. You will need to pass these in order to fulfil the requirements of the BA in Modern Languages with Year Abroad.

Subject requirements, level and grade

In addition to satisfying the University’s general entry requirements, please note:

• We welcome applications from those with other qualifications equivalent to our standard entry requirements and from mature students with non-standard qualifications or who may have had a break in their study.
• We look for aptitude in language study but there is no requirement for an A2 foreign language or equivalent qualification
• Students taking the History route of Chinese Studies must have an A in A2 History or equivalent qualification.
• We do not include General Studies or Critical Thinking as part of our offer
• Key skills qualifications are welcomed, but are not taken into account as part of the entry requirements
• We are pleased to consider applications for deferred entry.

Preferred Tests:

a. IELTS: 6.5 (no component under 6.0)

b. TOEFL iBT (internet based test): 92 (no component under 23)

c. Cambridge Proficiency (CPE): Grade C

d. Cambridge Advanced (CAE): Grade A

e. Cambridge IGCSE First Language English at Grade C or above [not normally acceptable for students who require a Tier 4 student visa]

f. Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language at Grade B or above [not normally acceptable for students who require a Tier 4 student visa]

g. GCSE English Language at grade C or above

h. Pearson Test of English (overall score 62 (with no score less than 56 in each component))

Alternative accepted tests when those listed in a.-h. above are unavailable to the applicant (if the applicant requires a Tier 4 visa to study, advice on the suitability of these alternatives must be sought from the Student Recruitment and Admissions Office):

i. Certificate of Attainment (Edexcel)

j. GCE A-levels (AQA, CIE, Edexcel, CCEA, OCR, WJEC) at grade C or above in an essay based, humanities or social science subject from the following list: History, Philosophy, Government and Politics, English Language, English Literature, Geography, Religious Studies, Economics, Business Studies, Law and Sociology. Modern or Classical Languages are not acceptable in meeting this requirement.

k. International Baccalaureate with a minimum of grade 5 in Standard Level English or a minimum of grade 5 if taken at Higher Level.

l. NEAB (JMB) Test in English (Overseas)

m. Singapore Integrated Programme (SIPCAL) at grade C or above in an essay based, humanities or social science subject from the following list: History, Philosophy, Government and Politics, English Language, English Literature, Geography, Religious Studies, Economics, Business Studies, Law and Sociology. Modern or Classical Languages are not acceptable in meeting this requirement.

n. Singapore Polytechnic Diploma and Advanced Diplomas at GPA 3.0 or above

o. WAEC and NECO Grade B3 or above from Nigeria and Ghana

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The financing options for the Chinese Studies program at Durham University primarily include home and international tuition fees, scholarships, bursaries, and student loans. The tuition fees vary depending on the student's domicile and the specific year of study but are publicly available on the university's official website. Typically, for undergraduate programs, tuition fees for UK students are set annually and reviewed each academic year, while international students are charged higher fees, reflecting the cost of international education. Durham University offers a range of scholarships aimed at supporting students financially, including those specifically targeting students enrolling in Chinese Studies. These scholarships may be merit-based, need-based, or targeted towards students from specific regions or backgrounds. Applicants are advised to check the official scholarship pages for the latest opportunities and eligibility criteria. Bursaries and other financial aid programs are also available, providing further financial support to students facing economic challenges. Additionally, students may consider government-backed student loans, which can help cover tuition fees and living expenses. The UK student finance system allows eligible students to apply for loans which are repayable after graduation once earning above a certain threshold. International students are encouraged to explore funding options through their home countries or external scholarship providers, as Durham University also participates in various international scholarship programs. It is recommended that all prospective students consult the university’s financial aid office and official website to receive detailed, up-to-date information about fees, scholarships, and funding options to ensure they can plan their finances effectively for their studies in Chinese Studies at Durham University.

Durham University's Chinese Studies program offers a comprehensive exploration of Chinese language, culture, history, and society. The programme is designed to develop students' proficiency in Mandarin Chinese, enabling them to communicate effectively and understand the nuances of Chinese culture and society. The degree typically combines language learning with interdisciplinary modules covering topics such as Chinese history, politics, philosophy, literature, and contemporary social issues. Students have the opportunity to study Chinese language at various levels, from beginner to advanced, utilizing immersive teaching methods and extensive language practice to build confidence and fluency.

The curriculum emphasizes both linguistic skills and cultural understanding, with modules that include Chinese cinema, classical and modern Chinese literature, and contemporary Chinese politics and society. Many programs offer the opportunity for students to undertake a year abroad in China, providing immersive language practice and cultural exchange experiences that deepen understanding and facilitate real-world communication skills.

Research-led teaching is a hallmark of Durham’s approach, with faculty members who are experts in their fields, offering insights drawn from current research. The program aims to equip students with critical thinking skills, cross-cultural understanding, and advanced language competence, preparing graduates for careers in international business, diplomacy, education, translation, or further academic research.

Assessment methods vary from coursework and presentations to written exams and language proficiency tests. Students are encouraged to participate in various extracurricular activities, including Chinese cultural events, student societies, and language exchange programs. Durham University's strong support network, including dedicated language resource centers and cultural organizations, enhances the learning experience.

Graduates of Durham's Chinese Studies program are well-prepared for roles that require intercultural communication and language skills. The program’s flexibility allows for specialization in areas such as Chinese literature, history, or politics, depending on individual interests and career aspirations. Overall, Durham’s Chinese Studies program aims to produce graduates who are not only proficient in Mandarin Chinese but also possess a deep understanding of China’s cultural and societal dynamics, positioning them for success in a globally interconnected world.