Programme Introduction
Gateway to China
The vicissitudes in the history of China have created a rich diversity that both fascinates and puzzles us. Today, as the most populous country in the world and an emerging superpower, China is a force to reckon with. Hence, there is always great demand for programmes that help students from different cultural backgrounds acquire the essential skills and knowledge for getting a grasp on the many faces of China. It is this awareness of cross-cultural engagement that makes CUHK’s Chinese Studies stand out. With the aim of training global China experts, the BA in Chinese Studies programme was designed to give students an in-depth understanding of China and Chinese communities throughout the world through scholarship and first-hand experience.
The programme takes an interdisciplinary approach to guide students to pursue their own paths of investigation into the myriad aspects of China’s history, governance, economy, business, culture, literature and contemporary society in a global context. There is strong emphasis on socio-cultural immersion, on-the-ground research, and an exchange of views among a distinctive mix of learners and faculty from Chinese societies and from around the world. Students are encouraged to broaden their understanding and think critically, and from that basis explore deeply and innovatively.
We encourage our students to delve into current social, economic and governmental structures, pursue research on specific cases, and undertake fieldwork or internships to “learn by seeing and doing”. Our students find this approach fascinating.
Learning through Cross-Cultural Dialogue
Admitting students from around the globe, the programme prizes learning through cross-cultural dialogue and tailored, individualized student development. Local and non-local students take courses and do fieldwork together, while having the chance to work on their individual strengths and weaknesses. Through sharing and learning from each other, they can see different sides of China’s development. This exposes them to different perspectives, which helps deepen their understanding of China. From its longstanding position as a site of convergence, multilingualism and cultural exchange, Hong Kong is an ideal place to practise this mixed-learning model.
Final year student Marta Magdalena GRAMATYKA, from Poland, said, “I think Hong Kong is a perfect mix between the East and West, as it offers a cosmopolitan and global perspective along with a lot of traditional Chinese culture. This mix makes Hong Kong a city with a multitude of perspectives, which is definitely an advantage when studying at university, particularly Chinese studies, a complex subject, as China is constantly changing. Hong Kong is also a perfect spot for travel, which makes university life even more fulfilling, as it is close to the mainland and many other Asian countries.”
Brilliantly Bilingual
The programme stresses improvement in English and Chinese learning capabilities, including language skills. International students studying Chinese as a second language take intensive language courses to attain the high level of proficiency necessary to work or study in the Chinese context after graduation. Local and non-local students from Chinese communities, meanwhile, devote time to strengthening their spoken and written English to the degree expected for graduate study or employment at the highest international level. The programme aims to train our students to be proficient in reading, writing and speaking about China in both English and Chinese from a global perspective.
Ki Un-Chan, a final year student from South Korea, pointed out that our department’s programme structure helps students study Chinese language by offering mandatory Chinese classes, as well as immersion opportunities. “On top of that, having mainland and Hong Kong friends provides us with more opportunities to practice our Chinese through conversation. It’s important to open ourselves to meeting new friends and practicing Chinese with them.”
Engaging with the Richness and Complexity of China
Critical thinking, an open mind and a willingness to engage with China are prerequisites for getting the most out of the programme. Adopting an interdisciplinary approach to exploring Greater China, the programme trains students to gain an integrated understanding of China’s past, present and future. It offers interactive instruction in the “liberal arts” mode and immersive learning through an on-the-ground sociocultural experience in Greater China. It emphasizes intensive empirical research to equip students with strong analytical and communication skills. Our graduates have the opportunity to connect with an internationally oriented network for developing careers in Hong Kong, mainland China and abroad.
Our Graduates and Career Prospects
Our programme offers a comprehensive, in-depth understanding of China, equipping students with excellent proficiency in both Chinese (Putonghua) and English, as well as a profound understanding of Chinese society and culture. Students study in a cross-cultural environment and gain an international outlook through diverse fieldwork and in-class learning experiences. Our graduates possess strong analytical and communication skills that make them highly sought-after in today’s competitive job market.
Graduates of our programme have a wide range of exciting career opportunities ahead of them. Our alumni have achieved remarkable success in various fields, including media, public policy, business, finance, education, tourism, marketing, academic research and culture management. Many have secured key positions in renowned multinational corporations, such as A.P. Moller – Maersk, Dealogic, Societe Generale, the Maritime Silk Road Society and Ernst & Young, as well as prominent institutions in Hong Kong, like AIA Hong Kong. Their contribution has added significant value to these organizations.
Many of our graduates have chosen to pursue advanced academic studies, both locally and internationally. They have been admitted to prestigious universities around the world, including Harvard University, the University of Chicago, Johns Hopkins University, SOAS University of London, and University College London. Locally, many have continued their postgraduate education at esteemed institutions such as The Chinese University of Hong Kong, The University of Hong Kong, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, and Hong Kong Baptist University. By further expanding their academic horizons, these individuals have continued to make an outstanding contribution to the field of Chinese studies.
Through the BA in Chinese Studies programme, our students gain a solid foundation of academic knowledge and practical skills, positioning them for a successful future in their chosen career path. Regardless of their interests and career goals, this programme offers a broad and exciting range of opportunities for personal and professional growth. Join us at the Centre for China Studies and embark on a transformative educational journey that will shape your future and open doors to diverse and rewarding career prospects.
If you are interested in this programme, please review the application requirements and deadlines specific to the respective admission scheme to increase your chances of getting accepted.
