BA (Hons) China Studies

China Studies

Overview

The BA China Studies programme provides you with an in-depth understanding of one of the most important global players of the 21st century China.

You will learn to apply theories from the humanities and social sciences to your understanding and analysis of China while benefiting from living in the country and experiencing the language and culture first hand.

The programme offers three optional specialisations to meet your career goals:

  • Economy and Global Affairs – Develop a comprehensive understanding of China’s economy, business, governance, and global geopolitical position;
  • Chinese Language – For non-native speakers of Chinese only, this is an opportunity to develop high-level language skills in one of the world’s most important languages; and
  • Teaching Chinese as an International Language – Study Chinese language teaching, in preparation to become a culturally grounded, professionally trained language educator.

You can explore different areas first and choose a specialisation upon graduation if you meet the credit requirements.

 

Why should I study BA China Studies at XJTLU?

  • Experience China first hand and take advantage of XJTLU’s strategic location in Suzhou – one of the most culturally and economically vibrant places in the country;
  • Study a broad range of topics including those related to China’s history and culture, society and politics, and business and economics;
  • Benefit from opportunities to undertake fieldwork and internships in different parts of China;
  • Learn Chinese, one of the most spoken languages in the world; and
  • Earn two degrees: an XJTLU degree from China’s Ministry of Education and a globally recognised degree from the University of Liverpool, a member of the Russell Group of leading UK universities.

The degree is open to both Chinese and international students and is taught in English. International students who meet academic and English language requirements may enter directly into Year Two.

Knowledge and skills

By the time you graduate from the BA China Studies programme, you will have:

  • an advanced level of proficiency in both English and modern Chinese;
  • an in-depth understanding of Chinese history and contemporary China’s society, culture, and political and economic development;
  • a strong understanding of humanities and social science theories;
  • qualitative and quantitative research skills of humanities and social sciences; and
  • professional and ethical understanding of how to apply AI tools in studying, research, and work.

The BA China Studies programme takes China as its classroom while cultivating a global outlook. With a diverse and accomplished academic staff, an engaging curriculum spanning a wide range of topics, a truly international classroom, and extensive opportunities for internships and fieldwork, the Department of China Studies helps every student develop independent thinking and the ability to understand and engage across cultures.
We do more than prepare specialists in China-related fields. Our graduates are already putting their knowledge and talents to work around the world, helping to foster dialogue between China and the wider world.

Dr Kan Li

Programme Director

Modules

*Programme modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change. XJTLU students are advised to log in to the e-Bridge Portal to view the effectuated module structure.


Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University offers a wide range of courses in the first year, including English for academic purposes (EAP), mathematics and physics, and humanities and social sciences. Click to learn more.

I really enjoyed the learning experience in my China Studies degree, with its knowledgeable and kind professors, students from diverse cultural backgrounds, and interesting modules covering a wide range of subjects. This programme will improve your academic skills and provide you with an alternative perspective on contemporary China.

Mingyang Su

Student, BA China Studies

Careers

Graduates from this programme pursue careers in a diverse range of organisations and companies looking to link with China in fields such as international business, economics, financial services, government, diplomacy, journalism, education, development, and non-governmental organisations. Our graduates have worked at government and public sector, international companies, state-owned enterprises, e-commerce giants, and international organisations.

Some exemplary employers include: HSBC Shanghai, China Unicom, BASIS International School Shenzhen, Malvern College Qingdao, University of Hong Kong, Alibaba Group, JD.com, China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou University of Science and Technology and Hong Kong Metropolitan University. Some graduates also go on to start their own companies.

The programme also offers you a solid foundation for pursuing further study in the humanities and social sciences. In recent years, acceptances and offers were obtained from world-renowned universities in the US, UK, and Australia, including: University of Oxford, University of Hong Kong, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Columbia University, University of California, Los Angeles, University of Pennsylvania, London School of Economics and Political Science, King’s College London, University College London, Durham University, University of Bristol, Leiden University, National University of Singapore, University of Sydney.

Exemplary postgraduate programmes include: China studies, East Asian studies, teaching Chinese as a second language, teaching English as a second language, education, history, cultural studies, archaeology, heritage and museum studies, applied linguistics, sociology, anthropology, public relations and law.

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