Introduction

Modern Chinese (Mandarin) is the official language for the China, the country with the longest written history and also the biggest population in the world. In its thousands of years’ development, the Chinese language has profoundly influenced both the languages and cultures of adjacent countries such as Japan, Korea and Vietnam. China is playing an increasingly important role in both Asia and around the globe. For anyone who is interested in knowing more about China and its relationship with other countries, Modern Chinese will be an extremely useful and timely tool both for a better understanding of China and for promoting a more efficient cross-cultural communication with other countries.

Program

Our Modern Chinese language program is designed for students from beginner to advanced level. Our aim is for students to become confident enough to handle translating and interpreting tasks. We have a very experienced team of professional language teachers, many of whom won teaching awards from the college and at university level, and are active in research about China or in Chinese language education. Students enrolled in our program will receive a systematic and well-tailored, step-by-step training by the end of which they will be able to read Chinese newspapers, understand Chinese TV programs or interviews, write essays in Chinese and communicate freely with one fifth of the world’s population.

Study options

The Modern Chinese language program offers courses mostly on campus, except during unusual circumstances when they will be offered online. For degree options, students have the flexibility of choosing between a major (48 units), a minor (24 units) or a Chinese Language Diploma. Many of our students choose a combined degree of a major or minor in Modern Chinese Language, and most of them have gained a highly competitive edge in the current job market. The Modern Chinese language program is also closely linked with the Chinese Studies Program at ANU. Together, they provide maximum opportunities for students to explore their own interests in not only the Chinese language but also a deep understanding of Chinese culture, history, society and thought.

Undergraduate courses Modern Chinese 1: Spoken, Modern Chinese 2: Spoken, Modern Chinese 1: Written, Modern Chinese 2: Written, Modern Chinese 3, Modern Chinese 4, Modern Chinese 5 and Modern Chinese 6. See ANU Programs and Courses for study options.

The School of Culture, History and Language places a unique emphasis on in-country experience. For more information on exchange programs and in-country language opportunities, visit the ANU global programs or enquire education.chl@anu.edu.au.