About the Program
Train in Chinese language and gain a comprehensive and in-depth knowledge of Chinese literature, film and media, popular culture and cultural studies. W&M offers courses in all levels of Chinese language, culture, history and society. To broaden face-to-face cultural understanding, you are encouraged to study abroad in China. Many students with a concentration in Chinese pair it with other fields including business, government, international relations, social science and science.
Paths of Study
What Makes Us Different
-
Start at Any Level
Chinese studies offers courses in all levels of Chinese language, culture, history and society.
-
Global Studies
Overlapping course requirements with the East Asian studies concentration of the global studies major.
-
Immersive Courses
Some courses are taught in Mandarin for students who want to become more proficient in the language.
-
Nationally-Recognized Faculty
Faculty have won national-level research fellowships such as the National Endowment for Humanities Fellowship.
Applied Learning
-
Courses
Learn about Twentieth-Century Chinese Literature in English (CHIN 322), Traditional Chinese Literature in English (CHIN 309), Chinese Popular Culture (CHIN 220) and the Art of Chinese Poetry (CHIN 386).*
-
Study Abroad
Immerse yourself through language and culture during study abroad programs in China and Taiwan.
-
Research
Complete research in either an advanced seminar or through an honors thesis. Recent research topics have included Soviet literature legacy in China and Sinophone Malaysian literature.
-
Chinese Language House
Join 15 other students in gaining insights into Chinese culture and improving their Chinese language skills.
Outcomes
Chinese studies graduates actively use their Chinese language skills as part of their job. Many graduates go on to work in law, education, government and creative fields or continue their education in Chinese studies or medicine.
Talk to Us
Want to learn more? Our current students and faculty want to connect with you.
Department of Chinese Studies
Contact Us
- Get an inside look: Contact a current Chinese studies major
- Ask the faculty: Contact the Department of Chinese Studies
Courses Disclaimer
*Courses listed are examples. Course availability changes each semester.
