Our Chinese program provides a structured pathway through Chinese language learning and Chinese Studies.
The introductory Chinese language units at the beginner level cover written and spoken Chinese (Mandarin) and an introduction to Chinese society and history. Intermediate level further develops language skills and knowledge of grammar, as well as offering a separate unit on Chinese society and culture.
Advanced level language units are the highest level in the Chinese program, while the Chinese Studies units offer specialist knowledge of society, culture, politics and economics in the Chinese-speaking world. Studies units include: Chinese Culture and Society; Political and Cultural History of Taiwan; Ethnic Minorities in Contemporary China.
A knowledge of Chinese language and an understanding of Chinese culture in all its diversity are valuable tools for students interested in pursuing careers in diplomacy, trade, education and research. Our students have been successful in applying for competitive scholarships in China and Taiwan and recent graduates have pursued post-graduate study at a university in China, repressented Australia at Shanghai Expo 2010, and worked at a Beijing-based community development NGO.
Demonstrated language skills will enhance any career and open options for work overseas. Language learning can also equip you with communication and cultural skills that are welcomed in many professions. Here are some examples:
The University College Program in Languages enables college students to have a concurrent enrolment at UTAS and gain a result in first year introductory level language in the Diploma in Languages.
The units equate to 25% of a full-time university first year load or the equivalent of first year Chinese and may count towards a degree at UTAS or at another university. Once accepted, students attend six workshops during the year on campus at Sandy Bay, Hobart, and complete work online.
The program in Chinese builds on your TCE language study to complete the requirements of first year university level Chinese through a range of additional content, including workshops and online study. The UTAS College Program for Chinese gives you a head-start in your degree, allowing you to enter UTAS at the second year level of language study.
UTAS has an exchange relationship with Shaanxi Normal University in the historical city of Xi'an, home to the terracotta warriors and one of China's four great ancient capitals. Intensive language programs are offered here during spring/summer at all levels and students complete assessment which is credited to UTAS units at home.
Students are encouraged to apply for a range of scholarships supporting in-country programs.
When I went to China, I could speak some Mandarin already, but experiencing the things that you would only learn in the Mandarin textbook in UTAS was a whole different thing. It was a great, enjoyable and eye opening experience.
Sample study plan - Chinese (PDF 111 KB)