By studying this course, you’ll be equipped with strong language skills and gain a deep understanding of modern China. In your first year, you’ll gain a firm foundation in the contemporary Chinese language, readying you for immersion in Chinese society in your second year, when you’ll live and study in either mainland China or Taiwan. Your residency will successfully prepare you for your upper years of study, as you’ll have a richer understanding of Chinese culture and society, as well as a solid grasp of the language.We emphasise the importance of embedding Chinese language studies in a firm understanding of the contexts in which the language has evolved and is used. You’ll learn this through the authentic Chinese language material that you’ll engage with during your studying and through a range of optional modules that cover topics such as Chinese society, literature and history.Alongside gaining language skills, you’ll develop a contextual understanding of China’s influence as a major player on the world stage, including its social and cultural diversity and its complex motivations and actions. Constituting for almost a fifth of the global economy, you’ll explore the dominant cultural, political and economic significance of China. You’ll study the country’s importance as a centre for technology, business and culture.Additional highlightsOur course is home to the internationally renowned Leeds Centre for New Chinese Writing, and you’ll benefit from the many exciting activities and events run by colleagues, including talks by leading Chinese fiction writers, translation competitions, and workshops.Specialist facilitiesThe Chinese collection housed in the Brotherton Library is one of the most impressive collections of modern Chinese books in the country. The University Library also has impressive holdings of books in English about China, backed up by a wide range of digital materials. You’ll have access to free classes and workshops so you can learn how to find resources and develop your study skills.As well as our great library resources, our Language Zone gives you access to free learning resources, including space for personal study, language learning software, and video, audio, books and magazines.Our Martin Thomas Translation Labs feature state-of-the-art computing facilities for translation studies as well as Interpreter Training Suites – ideal if you are considering a career in interpreting.Take a look around our libraries: Brotherton Library Laidlaw Library Edward Boyle Library