Program Overview

Modern Chinese (BA)

The Modern Chinese (BA) programme is a 4-year course that enables students to develop and enhance their knowledge of the Chinese language and culture. The programme is delivered through an exciting partnership between Cardiff University and Beijing Normal University, allowing students to achieve advanced linguistics skills and a deeper understanding of Chinese culture.

Subject Area

The subject area of this programme is Modern Languages and Translation, with a focus on Mandarin Chinese.

Programme Structure

The programme is divided into four years, with students spending years 1 and 4 at Cardiff University and years 2 and 3 at Beijing Normal University. The programme includes a range of modules, such as Introduction to Chinese Studies, Life in China, Mandarin Chinese language modules, and optional modules like Chinese Skills in Focus and Introduction to Translation Methods.

Entry Requirements

The entry requirements for this programme include:

• AAB-BBB at A-level, with grade B in Mandarin Chinese language for access to the Mandarin Chinese Advanced pathway
• 34-31 overall or 666-665 in 3 HL subjects at International Baccalaureate, with grade 5 in HL Mandarin Chinese language for access to the Mandarin Chinese Advanced pathway
• DDD-DDM in a BTEC Extended Diploma in Arts, Humanities, Science, and Social Science subjects
• GCSE English language or Welsh language at grade C/4 or equivalent
• English language requirements, including IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, or Trinity ISE

Tuition Fees

The tuition fees for this programme are:

• ｣9,535 per year for home students
• ｣24,700 per year for overseas students

Additional Costs

Students will need to pay for a visa application fee, Beijing Normal University application fee, travel expenses to and from China, accommodation costs, and general living expenses.

Course Structure

The course structure includes:

• Year 1: Introduction to Chinese Studies, Life in China, Mandarin Chinese language modules, and optional modules
• Year 2: Study at Beijing Normal University, with modules like Modern China, Chinese History, Media, Politics, Economics, and Culture
• Year 3: Continued study at Beijing Normal University, with modules like History, Cities and Villages in China, Internet Culture in China, and Business Chinese
• Year 4: Return to Cardiff University, with modules like Contemporary Chinese Culture and Society, and a dissertation

Learning and Assessment

The programme employs a range of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, language classes, and workshops. Assessments include traditional formats like essays and exams, as well as more innovative forms like vlogs, podcasts, and presentations.

Careers

Graduates of this programme can pursue a range of careers, including finance, international sport liaison roles, business consultancy, education, health, media, politics, diplomacy, interpreting, translation, law, and teaching.

Skills and Knowledge

Upon completion of the programme, students will be able to:

• Speak, write, and understand Mandarin Chinese language to degree standard
• Critically analyse aspects of Chinese culture, history, and society
• Demonstrate an in-depth, critical knowledge and awareness of Chinese culture and society
• Apply an in-depth intercultural understanding to navigate and mediate between more than one culture
• Communicate clearly and effectively in writing and speech, in English and Mandarin Chinese
• Adopt a range of strategies to initiate and undertake analysis of information
• Formulate conclusions about the strengths and weaknesses of views and arguments
• Critically evaluate ideas and arguments, using sound reasoning and detailed interpretations of source material.