Program Overview
The Chinese Studies major offers a variety of courses in the study of Chinese language and culture. Introductory and intermediate level courses focus on grammar, conversation, reading, writing and culture. Advanced level courses include continued acquisition of Chinese language skills and extensive cultural content.
Study-Abroad Requirement
All Chinese Studies majors are required one semester in a study abroad program in one of the following locations:
Xiamen University or the CIEE program in Shanghai, China
The pre-requisites for study abroad are:
• Sophomore, junior, or senior status
• Four completed semesters of college-level courses in the language of their major
• 2.75 GPA
• Clear probation record (disciplinary, chapel, academic)*
• Apply for pre-approval a year in advance (Fall – December 1; spring April1)
*Students denied the opportunity to do study abroad can appeal to the Dean
Program Learning Outcomes
Graduates from Messiah’s Chinese Studies program can:
1. Describe the significance of historical and cultural trends for the geographical areas in which the target language is spoken.
2. Write thesis driven essays that engage in cultural and literary analysis and critical interpretation in the target language.
3. Communicate in spoken form in the target language at an advanced level according to ACTFL standards.
4. Communicate in written form in the target language at an intermediate advanced level according to ACTFL standards.
5. Identify and locate career and continuing education opportunities in the field of Modern Languages.
6. Articulate the integration of their Christian Faith with the academic and professional field of Foreign Languages.
Major Requirements
Complete the following for your major:
The writing requirement for this major is distributed among courses within the major.
Nine credits from the following:
Fifteen additional credits during a semester in the CIEE program in Shanghai, China (15 credits)
Students should confirm with the Department of Language, Literature and Writing that the courses that they select are approved for the Chinese Studies Major.
12-15 credits of Chinese language
0-3 credits of Chinese culture