Course Summary

Whether you start as an absolute beginner or with a Pre-U, our Chinese course will give you the opportunity to develop all your language skills to a very high level, as well as studying cultural and historical contexts. You will have the chance to undertake exciting placements in China, and to gain invaluable experience of contemporary China. Studying Chinese at Chester offers you the unique opportunity to undertake two placements, allowing you to split your study experience between the UK and China. Your first placement will be for six to eight weeks at the end of Year 2, and the second placement will be either a semester or full academic year in China. By the end of the course you may have made friends for life from across the world. 

 The breadth and depth of International Relations at Chester, coupled with the international research and teaching expertise of staff, provides students with a strong foundation in international relations from multiple world perspectives. Students will be introduced to real world examples and theoretical and practical approaches to the key issues in international relations today. Our course is an internationally research-informed course that offers students multiple world perspectives on the key global issues affecting the world today. A unique blend of theoretical and practical skills are gained through the course to enable graduates to contribute to an understanding of the changing nature of the world around us.

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What you'll Study

In Year 1, you will develop your application of Chinese language; explore contemporary issues in Chinese culture; and develop your understanding of study skills.

Module content:

This module is designed for students with little or no previous knowledge of Chinese languages to obtain comprehensive foundation in Mandarin language, including speaking, listening, reading, and writing as well as computer character input. A more advanced set will be formed for any students entering with A level or equivalent. Students will learn to master pronunciation and tones. Characters are learned throughout the course. Knowledge is consolidated and placed within context through reading, listening and speaking. Essential grammar will be introduced in correspondence with the learning stages and themes.  At the end of the module students will be able to understand daily conversation and make appropriate responses according to the situation. Students will be able to read stories, newspapers, and other related materials; to be able to write creatively using characters learned. At the successful completion of this module, students will progress to CH5111 Mandarin Chinese Intermediate. 


Module aims:

  • To develop essential skills in speaking, listening, reading and writing in a range of everyday situations;
  • To develop knowledge and understanding of Chinese grammar, which is fundamental to the understanding and application of the language;
  • To be able to assess a given situation, making relevant expression;
  • To be able to understand conversation and make appropriate responses;
  • To be able to read appropriate materials and be able to write by using vocabulary learned;
  • To be able to input characters using computer and multi-media equipment for searching and typing in Chinese

Module content:

Following a chronological approach, this module is designed to give students a general introduction to the overall understanding of Chinese area studies, including society, politics, economics, business and culture. Key topics to be explored consist of philosophy and religion, ethnicity and migration, family and education, national identity, political economy, and cultural modernity. By the end of the course students will have acquired an overall knowledge of Chinese history, philosophy, culture, politics, and society, which will provide students with a solid foundation in Chinese area studies.


Module aims:

  • Acquire an understanding of key events from the pre-historical era to new millennium China;
  • Develop a knowledge of the key geographical features, languages, philosophy, ethnic groups, political economy and culture of China;
  • Understand the formation of Modern Chinese culture through the major political, economic and social events of the twentieth century;
  • Appreciate the dynamics and dilemmas that contemporary China faces in politics, economics and society and how these affect Chinese culture;

In Year 2, the emphasis is on increasing your fluency in written/spoken Chinese; studying political/social/cultural aspects of China; and preparing for your placements abroad.

Module content:

This module develops students’ critical analytical skills with a particular focus on Chinese culture and society. A broad range of topics will be selected for this module to present and explore unique situations and issues existing in the Chinese context to facilitate a deep understanding of contemporary Chinese cultural, social, political and economic topics.


Module aims:

  1. To acquire theoretical knowledge and analytical skills in the field of Chinese culture and society;
  2. To gain in-depth knowledge and understanding of Chinese culture and society in five principal areas: literature, aesthetics, sexuality, politics, arts and economy;
  3. To prepare students to carry out research during their year abroad, gathering material for final year dissertation writing.

Module content:

This module builds on competences and knowledge acquired at Level 4 to enable students to further develop their linguistic proficiency in terms of comprehension, accuracy and fluency, whilst increasing their knowledge of Chinese cultures and contemporary issues. Learning and teaching activities will focus on understanding of more complex grammar and sentence patterns, communicating on a wide range of current topics with an improved oral fluency and accuracy as well as reading and writing. A more advanced set will be formed for any students entering with A level or equivalent at Level 4. Students will be trained to seek general and detailed information from audio materials of clear and standard pronunciation and summarise key information; they will also be trained to translate and produce longer paragraphs in characters on familiar topics and of personal interests.  Language work will be based on textbooks, which will be supplemented with a wider range of sources, including authentic texts and multimedia resources.  


Module aims:

  • To further develop linguistic proficiency, both written and oral, to cope in a wider range of everyday situations in a Chinese-speaking country;
  • To further develop knowledge, understanding and application of grammatical structures, sentence patterns and syntax;
  • To develop independent language learning skills to improve performance;
  • To continue to offer, in the context of language learning, more insights into everyday life and culture in China.

Module content:

Preparation for the year abroad placement will take place in Chester in the core module of level 5. Subsequently, students will undertake a placement or placements from one or more of the following options: a British Council English Language Assistantship; academic modules at a partner institution; an approved work or volunteering placement; a programme of virtual learning equivalent to a placement.  . Students are required to produce two projects, each including work related to a topic of their own choice, subject to approval, on which they can readily find information whilst studying or working abroad. Each project must contain evidence of extensive secondary research, and primary research in the form of interviews is encouraged. The subject of each project should relate to social, historical, cultural, sustainability, diversity, or economic issues in the target language country, and should be discussed in an analytical essay based on the student’s research and experience. Students at partner universities will also obtain academic credits for modules successfully completed, while those working as language assistants or on a work placement will be assessed in part by means of an employer evaluation. Credits from partner universities or employer evaluations will be replaced by a 30-minute oral presentation if necessary or 15 minutes if one semester is failed..  All students will also submit a reflective evaluation of their own social-cultural and academic experience in the country, in the form of a Personal Development Portfolio. 


Module aims:

  1. To practise the language skills and apply the knowledge already acquired in authentic situations.
  2. To examine and evaluate chosen aspects of the society of the country in which the placement takes place.
  3. To enhance cultural and intercultural awareness and develop language skills to a high degree of proficiency.
  4. To engage with the experience of study at a partner university or in a work placement/virtual placement and gain extensive first-hand knowledge and understanding of the society from the perspective of the resident.
  5. To further develop independent learning and digital capabilities.
  6. To foster critical evaluation.

Module content:

  • The multiple facets of global citizenship
  • Ethical engagement and practice
  • The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
  • Cross-cultural issues and sensitivity
  • Intercultural communication
  • Culture shock
  • Cultural adjustment
  • Self- assessment of needs: identification of the range of transferable skills, competencies and attitudes employees need and employers expect graduates to possess-with a strong focus on understanding the intercultural competencies (ICC) needed to live and work abroad.
  • Critical analysis/evaluation of individual requirements in relation to culture/cultural adjustment/culture shock/visas/medical.
  • Critical analysis/evaluation of skills already acquired in relation to key skills related to ICC.
  • Devising strategies to improve one’s own prospects of working abroad in the future.
  • Devising an action plan to address gaps in transferable skills based on organisational analysis and sector opportunities.

Module aims:

This module promotes a reflective and critical approach to interculturality and aims to enhance students’ prospects of gaining overseas graduate employment, which will enable them to:

  1. Examine and evaluate a chosen aspect of the society of a target country
  2. Enhance cultural and intercultural awareness and further develop related skills.
  3. Articulate clearly their career plans and take steps to prepare for their first paid overseas graduate role,
  4. Take responsibility for their own learning and acquisition of identified employability skills,
  5. Articulate, orally and in writing, their findings and their employability skills.

Module content:

The module will include preparation in advance of departure in Chester and subsequent study at a partner university or approved work placement abroad. If the planned mobility is not possible or is interrupted, students will engage with a virtual version of the module which will include intensive language tuition. Students are required to produce a report related to a topic of their own choice, subject to approval. The report analyses and synthesises written documents, and may contain a recorded interview conducted by the student and draw on other recorded documents. The subject of the report should relate to a social, historical, cultural, sustainability or economic issue which is of interest locally or nationally. It should be complemented by an oral reflective evaluation of the student’s own socio-cultural and academic or professional experience in the country or virtual placement.


Module aims:

  1. To practise the language skills and apply the knowledge already acquired in authentic situations.
  2. To examine and evaluate a chosen aspect of the society of the target language country
  3. To enhance cultural and intercultural awareness and further develop language skills.
  4. To engage with the experience of a partner university or work placement/virtual placement.
  5. To further develop independent learning techniques.
  6. To foster critical evaluation.

Module content:

This module is designed for Level 5 Modern Language or English Language students intending to spend a year abroad and/or considering teaching English as Foreign Language. It is also suitable for students of all disciplines interested in a career in TEFL. Students will develop their knowledge of English grammar and structure and acquire a basic understanding of the communicative approach to teaching English as a Foreign Language.  Students will also be introduced to a range of methods of teaching, learning and assessment. This knowledge will be applied practically in the planning of motivating learning activities and lesson structures, utilising the loop input approach. Students will also be acquainted with a variety of language learning resources. To complement their theoretical knowledge students will also be provided with practical teaching experience, ideally with authentic foreign learners of English, where they will have to opportunity to experiment with various learning and assessment techniques. Some teaching practice will also be in the form of micro-teaching sessions with peers on the module.


Module aims:

  1. To develop students' awareness of English language grammar and structure.
  2. To raise students’ awareness of phonology and the appropriate methods and materials to teach English pronunciation successfully.
  3. To introduce students to some basic contemporary pedagogical theory related to the teaching of English as a Foreign Language.
  4. To introduce students to a range of teaching and learning materials
  5. To provide students with practical skills for the English language classroom.
  6. To establish sound approaches to critical reflection with regard to observation, practice and professional development.
  7. To enable students to enhance their transferable and interpersonal skills such as self-presentation, time management, communication and problem solving.

Module content:

Pre-placement:

  • Structured approaches to researching, selecting and securing a suitable work placement relevant to the student’s interests and career aspirations*.
  • Writing an effective CV. Constructing a letter of application.*
  • Interview skills.*

 *Note: Students are required to undertake these pre-placement tasks during term 1 level 5, as part of the placement acquisition process and will be supported by the Work Based Learning team and the Careers and Employability department.

 Induction Programme and Placement:

  • The organisational context: research-informed analysis of the placement organisation’s aims, structure, culture.
  • Self- assessment of needs: identification of the range of transferable skills, competencies and attitudes employees need and employers expect graduates to possess. (Employability Skills: e.g. verbal and written communication, analytical / problem solving capabilities; self-management; team working behaviours; negotiation skills; influencing people; positive attitude, resilience, building rapport).
  • Devising a strategy for integrating into the workplace and work based teams
  • Completion of online assignment tasks covering sourcing and obtaining placement; health and safety procedures in general; general workplace integrity; placement requirements. 

During and post-placement: Learning effectively in and from the workplace:- 

  • Devising and implementing strategies to improve own approach and performance
  • Critical analysis/evaluation of approach to skill development and performance in the workplace;
  • Influencing the Placement Provider’s appraisal;
  • Devising an action plan to develop gaps in transferable skills based on the placement experiences;

Module aims:

This module aims to enhance students’ prospects of gaining graduate level employment through engagement with a University approved work placement**, which will enable them to:

  • Develop their understanding of workplace practice and lifelong learning;
  • Enhance their work readiness and employability prospects through development of transferable skills;
  • Take responsibility for their own learning and acquisition of workplace employability skills;
  • Articulate, in writing, their employability skills.

In the final year, you will have the opportunity to consolidate your advanced language skills and demonstrate your fluency in Chinese. Modules offer choices for independent research.

Module content:

This module builds on the knowledge and competences acquired in the course of study placement abroad or equivalent to enable students to continue to develop language skills and cultural competence to a higher level. Building on the specifications of modules CH4000 Mandarin Chinese Beginners and CH5111 Mandarin Chinese Intermediate, this module adds depth and complexity to the language assimilated and offers more insights into China’s culture and society as well as everyday life in China today. It employs real-life, practical situations to immerse students in an authentic Chinese language environment. Vocabulary and grammatical structures are reviewed and explored further, and students’ listening, reading, speaking and writing skills are expanded across a greater range of subject matter. The aim is to equip students with linguistic abilities and cultural knowledge necessary to be able to communicate more confidently and easily with Chinese native speakers in real life situations. 


Module aims:

  1. To further extend linguistic proficiency, both written and oral, in order to present ideas and arguments in real life situations.
  2. To further develop lexis and structures and improve their accuracy in using more complex vocabulary and grammatical structures.
  3. To refine and extend productive and receptive skills in Chinese in contexts requiring discussion, persuasion, argument and summary.
  4. To increase students’ self-confidence and self-awareness when using Chinese in more complex language tasks.
  5. To develop a deeper knowledge and better understanding of Chinese history, geography and culture.
  6. To further develop transferable skills including time management skills.

Module content:

This module builds on competences and knowledge acquired in level 5 modules and potentially through time spent in a target-language-speaking country via residence abroad modules or through study of target-language at partner universities. Additionally, students who have taken CH5111, FR/SP5001 but who are unable to take the year abroad should take this module rather than CH6301, FR/SP6302 with the condition that the essay component is completed in target language. The first part of the module engages students in the study of a selection of key social, cultural, political or linguistic issues relating to target-language-speaking countries while at the same time providing the contexts for further study of and practice in the language. This will enable students to extend their linguistic proficiency and to develop knowledge and competences in language-based area studies. Written and recorded materials used to examine these areas will serve as a basis for the further development of linguistic skills. Students will further develop their oral and written communication, concentrating on oral fluency and on written accuracy and style, and will further extend their knowledge of vocabulary. They will also increase their awareness of formal register through analysis of source materials. In the second part of the module each student will identify an aspect of one of the issues studied in the first part of the module that s/he wishes to explore in further depth though a research-based essay drawing on available materials in both target language and English.


Module aims:

  1. To further extend linguistic proficiency, both written and oral at a level corresponding to B1 B2 on the CEFR, particularly in relation to the specific topic areas; for Chinese at a level corresponding Level 3  Level 4 on the HSK Test (Chinese Proficiency Test);
  2. To further develop independent language-learning skills to improve performance.
  3. To further raise cultural and intercultural awareness, in the context of students’ language learning, of relevant aspects of life in contemporary target-language-speaking countries.
  4. To further develop knowledge, understanding and application of elements of target-language grammar.
  5. To further develop key skills such as digital competences.

Module content:

The module will start with an overview of the target language’s business world and will then focus on the analysis and development of the specialised language and register used in a variety of business contexts relating, for instance, to marketing and advertising and relevant skills for the workplace. Comprehensive use will be made of authentic and simulated business documents which will be examined and critically analysed in the professional document, for example, as a report. All the materials will be made available on the VLE. Content may vary in different target languages. Guest speakers from the world of work will be invited to contribute to group sessions, these will be delivered in English.


Module aims:

  1. To develop linguistic awareness of the specialised language and register as well as employability and transferable skills appropriate to a variety of business contexts.
  2. To develop the ability to discuss, critically analyse and present business concepts and to engage in business simulations in target language.
  3. To further develop formal business correspondence and writing skills in target language.
  4. To introduce liaison interpreting in business contexts.

Module content:

This module will offer students the opportunity to examine thematically some of the challenges of representing identity and giving voice to diversity in contemporary global societies. Students will be exposed to a range of literary, visual, audio and cinematic texts (all available in translation) from across the language cultures. These texts will be structured around four dominant themes drawn from, among others: decolonising the intellectual; oral traditions in the 21st century; visual representations of difference; young voices in protest; identity politics in action. Students will, thereby, analyse and compare cultural representations of contemporary identities. 


Module aims:

  1. To examine, through a range of diverse texts, cultural representations of identity
  2. To analyse a number of significant written, visual, audio or cinematic texts and to interpret and comment on their style, content and context.
  3. To further develop transferable skills such as critical analysis and oral presentation.
  4. To enhance research and written skills. 

Module content:

The module will centre on the study and translation of written texts. Texts will be chosen for their suitability in terms of language and content, will be linguistically demanding and will illustrate different genres, styles and register. A range of subject matter will be examined, including, for example, socio-political articles, business-related texts and literary extracts. Students will be introduced to current trends in translation, proof-reading, post-editing and the use of appropriate CAT tools. They will also study methods and principles of translation in order to understand related terminology, develop appropriate techniques and be able to reflect critically on translation choices and processes. 


Module aims:

  1. To examine effectively and translate complex written texts into accurate English, conveying the appropriate register and style. 
  2. To further improve comprehension and understanding of the functions of language and extend knowledge of vocabulary. 
  3. To apply appropriate translation techniques and terminology. 
  4. To further develop transferable skills with particular reference to problem-solving and expression in written English. 
  5. To critically examine and revise a translated text. 
  6. To foster critical reflection on the process and techniques of translation. 

Module content:

This module provides a further opportunity for students to engage in independent learning and to examine an area of study of their choice. It will normally focus on a significant political, historical, sociological, linguistic or cultural aspect of target language studies which the student wishes to examine in some depth. In all cases the subject needs to be approved by the tutor. 

The study will lead to a research presentation in English and the production of an essay followed by an oral discussion. Students who choose to produce the written work in English will undertake the oral discussion in target language while students who choose to write in target language will discuss their work in English. These decisions will be reached through guidance and advice from tutors. 


Module aims:

  1. To provide the opportunity to conduct research and to engage in the in-depth study of a relevant topic. 
  2. To develop advanced knowledge of the subject of study and the ability to critically reflect on current theory and opinion. 
  3. To further develop writing skills in target language or English and produce an extended essay which is accurate, coherent and structured, and of a suitable academic standard. 
  4. To further develop oral discussion and argument in target language or English and to present a coherent account of research including analysis of salient points and reflection on the process. 
  5. To extend independent learning techniques. 

Who you'll Learn from

Dr Min Ge

Lecturer in Chinese Studies, Programme Leader BA (Combined Hons) Chinese
Dr Min Ge

Dr Suzanne Francis

Associate Professor of Conflict Transformation & Peace Studies; Programme Leader, Global Affairs, Politics and International Relations
Suzanne Francis

How you'll Learn

You will be taught in a dynamic Department that includes three digital language laboratories, study rooms, and a dedicated resources room.  

 All four language skills – reading, writing, listening and speaking – will be assessed, as well as your ability to research and analyse. You will be assessed via essays, role plays, presentations, summaries, debates, portfolios, discussion papers, translations, projects, examinations, critical thinking tasks, and dissertation.

Beyond the Classroom

On this course, you have the opportunity to spend five weeks working for a host organisation via our innovative Work Based Learning module. You’ll have the chance to test-drive a future career, boost your CV and gain real work experience. 

 You may choose to complete an Introduction to TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) which might be particularly helpful if you are intending to teach English as a foreign language during your year abroad or longer term.  

Our Experiential Overseas Learning module offers a unique opportunity to participate in a short-term placement around the world. 

 This course offers the exciting opportunity to study abroad for a full academic year at one of our bilateral exchange partners or through ISEP (International Student Exchange Programs), a network of over 300 additional higher education institutions worldwide. 

 You can choose to take a study placement at one of our partner universities in China, or undertake a suitable work placement in China, subject to approval by the Programme Leader. 

 You may opt for a Split Year Abroad Placement, which involves undertaking two placements in two countries with a combination of one of the following options: study at one of our partner universities, including Chinese partner universities; work as a language assistant in a French, German or Spanish-speaking country; or an approved work placement. 

 You can choose to undertake a Virtual Year Abroad, which may include a number of the following: attendance at a high-level evening class through the Languages for All programme, participation in an online or in person intensive summer school, a virtual internship, or volunteering in the UK in a target language focused environment. Each student will have a virtual year abroad tutor who will provide tutorial guidance throughout the year.

Entry Requirements

112 UCAS Points

UCAS Tariff

112 points

GCE A Level

Typical offer – BCC-BBC

BTEC

BTEC Extended Diploma: DMM

International Baccalaureate

26 points

Irish / Scottish Highers

Irish Highers - H3 H3 H3 H3 H4

Scottish Highers - BBBB

Access requirements

45 credits at level 3, of which 30 must be at Merit or above

T Level

T Level: Merit

OCR Cambridge Technicals

OCR Extended Diploma: DMM

Extra Information

In addition to level 3 qualifications, GCSE English Language and a modern foreign language at grade C/4 or above is required. Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced and A level General Studies will be recognised in our offer.  We will also consider a combination of A Levels and BTECs/OCRs.

Students from countries outside the UK are expected to have entry qualifications roughly equivalent to UK A Level for undergraduate study and British Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) for postgraduate study. To help you to interpret these equivalents, please click on your country of residence to see the corresponding entry qualifications, along with information about your local representatives, events, information and contacts.

We accept a wide range of qualifications and consider all applications individually on merit. We may also consider appropriate work experience.

English Language Requirements:

  • IELTS Academic: Undergraduate: 6.0 (minimum 5.5 in each band)
  • Postgraduate: 6.5 (minimum 5.5 in each band)

For those who do not have IELTS or an acceptable in-country English language qualification, the University of Chester has developed its own online English language test which applicants can take for just £50.

For more information on our English Language requirements, please visit International Entry Requirements.

Where you'll study Exton Park, Chester

Fees and Funding

£9,250 per year (2024/25)

Our full-time undergraduate tuition fees for Home students entering University in 2024/25 are £9,250 a year, or £1,540 per 20-credit module for part-time study.

The University may increase these fees at the start of each subsequent year of your course in line with inflation at that time, as measured by the Retail Price Index. These fee levels and increases are subject to any necessary government, and other regulatory, approvals.

Students from the UK, Isle of Man, Guernsey, Jersey and the Republic of Ireland are treated as Home students for tuition fee purposes.

Students from countries in the European Economic Area and the EU starting in or after the 2021/22 academic year will pay International Tuition Fees.

Students who have been granted Settled Status may be eligible for Home Fee Status and if eligible will be able to apply for Tuition Fee Loans and Maintenance Loans.

Students who have been granted Pre-settled Status may be eligible for Home Fee Status and if eligible will be able to apply for Tuition Fee Loans.

Irish Nationals living in the UK or Republic of Ireland are treated as Home students for Tuition Fee Purposes.

£13,950 per year (2024/25)

The tuition fees for international students studying Undergraduate programmes in 2024/25 are £13,950. 

This fee is set for each year of study. All undergraduate students are eligible for international and merit-based scholarships which are applicable to each year of study.  

For more information, go to our International Fees, Scholarship and Finance section.

Irish Nationals living in the UK or ROI are treated as Home students for Tuition Fee Purposes. 

Your course will involve additional costs not covered by your tuition fees. This may include books, printing, photocopying, educational stationery and related materials, specialist clothing, travel to placements, optional field trips and software. Compulsory field trips are covered by your tuition fees. 

If you are living away from home during your time at university, you will need to cover costs such as accommodation, food, travel and bills. 

 

The University of Chester supports fair access for students who may need additional support through a range of bursaries and scholarships. 

Full details, as well as terms and conditions for all bursaries and scholarships can be found on the Fees & Finance section of our website.

 

Your future Career

Job prospects

A degree in Chinese develops an impressive range of skills including strong communication and presentation skills, the ability to work autonomously and in groups, analytical and critical discernment and the resilience and confidence developed during placements abroad. Graduates from the Department of Modern Languages often pursue further study or careers in translation, teaching, business, hospitality, civil service or in international organisations. 

 International Relations graduates will be well-prepared for roles and responsibilities that require careful assessment of topics and agendas within; migration war, terrorism, power, diplomacy, international trade, poverty, and international cooperation. Graduates may also go on to further study in a range of disciplines

 

Careers service

The University has an award-winning Careers and Employability service which provides a variety of employability-enhancing experiences; through the curriculum, through employer contact, tailored group sessions, individual information, advice and guidance.

Careers and Employability aims to deliver a service which is inclusive, impartial, welcoming, informed and tailored to your personal goals and aspirations, to enable you to develop as an individual and contribute to the business and community in which you will live and work.

We are here to help you plan your future, make the most of your time at University and to enhance your employability. We provide access to part-time jobs, extra-curricular employability-enhancing workshops and offer practical one-to-one help with career planning, including help with CVs, applications and mock interviews. We also deliver group sessions on career planning within each course and we have a wide range of extensive information covering graduate jobs and postgraduate study