Chinese Studies

Chinese is a Sino-Tibetan language spoken by over one billion people as their native tongue.  Most common among the five major regional forms of Chinese is “Mandarin” (Putonghua / Guoyu), which is based upon the Beijing dialect and is the official language of both the PRC and Taiwan.  The written language is the same for all varieties of Chinese. 

An FLL specialization in Chinese Studies develops proficiency in Chinese language and acquaints students with the literature and cultural history of China.  Courses are also available for those interested in business Chinese, film, and women’s studies.

This major provides students with the foundation for further work at the graduate level in East Asian studies or allied fields (linguistics, history, religion, and art history).  An FLL – Chinese Specialization major is excellent general preparation for entry to professional schools (medicine, law), foreign service, diplomacy, translation, business, import and export of information and culture, museums and libraries, tourism, and the like.