The Chinese program offers students a range of courses and activities which impart an understanding of the culture and civilization of China. With the completion of three years of the language, students will be prepared to handle various types of colloquial Chinese. Most majors pursue advanced studies in Chinese linguistics or literature, while others combine an interest in China with a degree in business, education, engineering or journalism.
Visit our website for more information about the undergraduate studies in Chinese.
Study Abroad in China
Students may receive residence credit for study abroad through a variety of different programs. Our faculty direct the summer UW Intensive Chinese Language program in Tianjin. Students on this intensive language program study Mandarin Chinese over the summer, earning up to a full year's worth of language credits. Please contact International Academic Programsfor details.
Students may also receive credit, or gain experience, through various internship opportunities abroad. Please contact International Internship Programs for details.
Starting Coursework toward the Major
Students may declare the Chinese major at any time. Before declaring the major, students may begin coursework to explore the language and fields of interest. Those students who have studied Chinese prior to coming to UWMadison will have to take a placement test to determine the best class to enroll in on campus.
The following courses may be taken with no previous knowledge of Chinese:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ASIALANG101 | First Semester Chinese | 4 |
| ASIALANG110 | Elementary Chinese I | 2 |
| ASIAN100 | Gateway to Asia: Special Topics | 3-4 |
| ASIAN/​HISTORY103 | Introduction to East Asian History: China | 3-4 |
| ASIAN/​RELIGST236 | Asia Enchanted: Ghosts, Gods, and Monsters | 3 |
| ASIAN/​HISTORY/​POLISCI255 | Introduction to East Asian Civilizations | 3-4 |
| ASIAN/​HISTORY/​RELIGST267 | Asian Religions in Global Perspective | 3-4 |
| ASIAN276 | ||
| ARTHIST203 | Survey of Asian Art | 3-4 |
| LITTRANS261 &LITTRANS262 | Survey of Chinese Literature in Translation and Survey of Chinese Literature in Translation | 6 |
| LITTRANS262 | Survey of Chinese Literature in Translation | 3 |
| SOC225 | Contemporary Chinese Society | 3 |

