Teaching Chinese as an International Language

The Master of Arts in Teaching Chinese as an International Language at The Chinese University of Hong Kong is a comprehensive postgraduate program designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required for teaching Chinese to non-native speakers worldwide. Recognizing the growing global demand for Chinese language education, this program offers a specialized curriculum that combines theoretical foundations with practical teaching methodologies, enabling graduates to become effective Chinese language educators in diverse cultural and educational contexts.

The program curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including Chinese linguistics, language pedagogy, intercultural communication, curriculum design, assessment strategies, and the integration of technology in language teaching. Students will have opportunities to develop their instructional skills through supervised teaching practice, where they can apply theoretical principles in real classroom settings. Emphasis is placed on fostering an understanding of pedagogical theories tailored specifically for teaching Chinese as a second or foreign language, as well as cultivating cross-cultural awareness and intercultural competence to enhance teaching effectiveness in international settings.

Faculty members consist of experts in Chinese linguistics, language education, and intercultural communication, providing students with top-tier academic mentorship and support. The program also emphasizes research skills, encouraging students to undertake innovative projects that contribute to the field of Chinese language teaching and learning. Equipped with advanced knowledge and pedagogical expertise, graduates will be prepared to assume roles in educational institutions, language centers, and corporate training environments globally.

The university's vibrant academic community and extensive network facilitate opportunities for international collaboration, conference participation, and professional development, ensuring students graduate with a well-rounded international outlook. The program is suitable for those who aspire to pursue careers in teaching Chinese as an international language, curriculum development, language assessment, or related fields. With a strong focus on practical application, cultural understanding, and academic excellence, the Master of Arts in Teaching Chinese as an International Language at The Chinese University of Hong Kong prepares graduates to become leaders in the field of Chinese language education worldwide.

• Theories and Methods of Teaching Chinese as an International Language
• Studies in Chinese Character Teaching
• Cross-cultural Teaching in Teaching Chinese as an International Language
• Research Report
• Studies in Chinese Lexicology Teaching
• Chinese Syntax and Its Pedagogy
• Studies in the Acquisition of Chinese as a Second Language
• Sociolinguistics and Chinese Language Education
• Studies in the State-of-the-Art Chinese Language Teaching
• Independent Studies
• Elective modules from the Master of Arts Degree Programme in Putonghua Education:
• Contrasts between Putonghua and Cantonese
• Chinese Phonetics and International Phonetic Alphabets
• Teaching Chinese Character Acquisition and Hanyu Pinyin
• Oral Expression and Oral Teaching
• Elective modules from the Master of Education Degree Programme offered by the Faculty of Education

Requirements

• Graduated from a recognised university and obtained a Bachelor’s degree, normally with honours not lower than Second Class; or
• Graduated from an honours programme of a recognised university with a Bachelor’s degree, normally achieving an average grade of not lower than “B”; or
• Completed a course of study in a tertiary educational institution and obtained professional or similar qualifications equivalent to an honours degree.
• Pass an entrance examination or interview conducted by the Graduate Division of Education;
• TOEFL (normally not lower than 550 Paper-based; 213 computer-based; and 79 internet-based); OR
• IELTS (Academic) (normally not lower than Band 6.5); OR
• GMAT (Verbal, normally not lower than 21);
• Applicants should have work experience in areas related to Chinese language education; should demonstrate a high degree of proficiency in Chinese reading and writing; and should be highly proficient in Putonghua (equivalent to a second class grade in the Putonghua Proficiency Test administered by the State Language and Writing Commission).

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

Scholarships

• Full-time students may receive teaching assistantships or postgraduate studentships.

The Chinese University of Hong Kong offers a comprehensive programme in Teaching Chinese as an International Language designed to prepare students for careers in promoting Chinese language and culture globally. The programme emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, combining linguistic theory, pedagogical skills, cultural understanding, and practical teaching experience. Students will engage with advanced coursework on Chinese language structure, educational psychology, and modern pedagogical methods tailored for diverse learner backgrounds. The curriculum integrates both traditional and innovative teaching methodologies, including technology-enhanced language instruction, to equip graduates with versatile skills applicable in various educational settings worldwide.

Throughout the programme, students have opportunities for practical teaching internships, where they can apply their theoretical knowledge in real classroom environments under the supervision of experienced educators. The programme also encourages research on Chinese language teaching and learning, fostering analytical skills and a scholarly approach to language education issues. Collaboration with local and international institutions provides additional platforms for exchange and professional development.

Graduates of the programme are well-prepared to work as Chinese language teachers, curriculum developers, and educational administrators both within Hong Kong and internationally. The programme is open to students with a strong interest in Chinese language and culture, and it aims to nurture competent, culturally aware language educators who can meet the demands of an increasingly interconnected world.

The programme's faculty comprises renowned scholars in the fields of Chinese linguistics, language pedagogy, and intercultural communication. State-of-the-art facilities and resources support innovative teaching and research activities. The duration of the programme typically spans one to two years, depending on the student's background and chosen study pathway. Upon completion, graduates are awarded an official qualification recognized for teaching Chinese as a second language and for further academic pursuits in related fields.