Chinese Language and Culture BA

About this programme

The undergraduate major in Chinese Language at UC Berkeley is a comprehensive program dedicated to the humanistic study of East Asia. This major is structured to develop high proficiency in modern and classical Chinese, equipping students with the skills necessary for critical and informed engagement with East Asian texts. The curriculum aims to foster a deep understanding of the region's historical, literary, philosophical, and cultural dimensions, particularly as they have evolved into modern times. Course Structure: Language Mastery: Emphasis on spoken and written modern Chinese, with introductory training in classical Chinese. Interdisciplinary Exploration: Courses cover various subjects, including literature, popular culture, philosophy, and linguistics. These are available in translation and the original languages, encouraging a multidimensional understanding of East Asian cultures. Regional Comparative Context: The program places the study of China and Chinese within an East Asian framework, introducing students to diverse disciplinary and comparative perspectives. Honors Program : Students who demonstrate exceptional academic ability can undertake an honors thesis. Details on requirements and application procedures are under the Major Requirements tab. This major advances language skills, cultivates critical thinking, and produces effective writing, preparing students for various careers and global interactions.