DEGREE GUIDE

Chinese Studies

What do Chinese Studies degrees involve?

Chinese Studies degrees teach you about China’s language, history, culture, and global influence, giving you insight into one of the world’s most important economies and societies. You will explore key areas such as Mandarin language, Chinese history, literature, politics, and philosophy. These courses help you develop linguistic, analytical, and cross-cultural communication skills while examining themes like China’s economic rise, international relations, and cultural heritage. You will also have the opportunity to study classical and modern Chinese texts, explore contemporary Chinese society, and gain an understanding of China’s role in global affairs. With immersive language learning, study abroad opportunities, and interdisciplinary research, you’ll develop the expertise needed for careers in diplomacy, business, translation, and international relations.

Example
Modules

Elementary Chinese B: Strengthen your core reading, writing, speaking and listening skills, progressing toward CEFR A2/B1 level through everyday language use and translation.

History and Culture in China: Explore China’s rich past and traditions, analysing key events, philosophies and cultural practices using original sources.

Chinese Cinema: Study major films and directors, learning how cinema reflects social change and cultural identity in modern and contemporary China.

Common Degree Names

💼 Placement options are available on some courses, including internships during the year abroad.
🌍 A year abroad at a university in China or Taiwan is a standard part of most Chinese Studies degrees.

BA (Hons) Chinese Studies
BA (Hons) Chinese and History
BA (Hons) Chinese and International Relations
BA (Hons) Chinese and Linguistics
BA (Hons) Chinese and English

Level 3 (A-level / IB Diploma (HL) / Scottish Highers)

Chinese Studies degrees can focus on language, culture, history, or politics. Most are designed for beginners, though some offer advanced pathways.

For advanced-level entry:

Chinese (Mandarin) – required for advanced-entry courses

For beginners pathways (most common):

No prior Chinese required – courses start from scratch
A Modern or Classical Language – shows language-learning ability
English Literature, History, or Politics – useful for courses focused on society and culture
Religious Studies, Sociology, or Geography – accepted for humanities routes

✨ Most courses don't require previous Chinese study. If you have taken Mandarin, you may join a more advanced language stream.

Universities may also accept:

BTEC Extended Diplomas in relevant areas like Humanities or Public Services, often with an academic A-level alongside

✨ Some degrees are more language-intensive, while others are broader cultural or global studies courses—always check the course page to see what’s required.

Level 2 Qualifications (GCSE / MYP / National 5)

You’ll usually need:

GCSE English Language and Maths at grade 4/C or above, or equivalent qualifications such as National 5s or MYP

📘 If available at your school, GCSE (or equivalent) Mandarin or another language can be helpful, though not essential.

Strong grades in Humanities subjects (like History or Religious Studies) are also a good foundation.

💬 Interviews
Most universities do not require interviews for Chinese Studies. Some competitive courses may include a short interview to explore your motivation or interest in international studies.

📝 Admissions Tests
There are no standard tests required for Chinese Studies.

🎓 Language Placement Tests
If you’ve already studied Chinese, some universities may ask you to complete a short language test to place you in the correct class level after you enrol, not during admissions.

If your qualifications don't match the usual entry requirements, there are some other possibilities.

🌱 Foundation Year in Languages, Global Studies or Humanities
Many universities offer a foundation year for students who didn’t take traditional A-levels or need additional preparation for language study.

🎓 Access to HE Diploma (Humanities, Languages or Social Sciences)
This is a great route for mature learners. Access courses with units in History, Sociology, or Languages are particularly useful. Aim for Merits and Distinctions in essay-based subjects.

💼 Level 3 Apprenticeships
While there are no direct apprenticeships in Chinese Studies, experience in international business, translation, or travel/tourism may support a future application—especially if combined with further study or a foundation year.

Is this degree right for you?

Members can explore whether this degree fits who they are:

Skills you'd develop and whether they match your strengths
How this aligns with your interests, motivators and values
Career paths and where graduates end up

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Skills you would develop in a Chinese Studies degree

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Careers a Chinese Studies degree could lead you to