The China Studies program provides students the opportunity to develop their Mandarin proficiency while studying various aspects of China in English. All students will enroll in a 6-credit Mandarin language course based on their proficiency at the start of the program.

In addition, students will enroll in three 3-credit courses taught in English to complete their studies. A total of 15 credit hours will be awarded at the end of the semester.

A complete list of courses can be found at the course schedule search.

China Studies Courses (15 Credit hours total)
Students will enroll in all of the courses below:

ILC 1090 Elementary Mandarin (6 credit hours)
Develops listening comprehension and speaking skills in Chinese. Will rely on Pin Yin, the alphabetized treatment of Chinese, for written skills.  Advanced Chinese language courses are available for students with prior Mandarin proficiency.

HIST 2400 Modern Asia: China (3 credit hours)
Studies the cultures and the political-social development of China, from the fall of the Qing (Manchu) Dynasty in 1911 to the present day. This history course draws from social sciences and humanities to introduce the student to the basic forms of Chinese traditional culture, the process of change, both external and internal, through which those forms have undergone in the modern period, and the general nature of Chinese civilization as it is today.

Through planned excursions students will come away with a better understanding of China's distinctive characteristics. (Offered fall and spring)

GNST 1400 Civilization and the Arts: Shanghai Society (3 credit hours)
Since opening its gates to the West in the early 19th century, Shanghai has cultivated a modern sensibility. During its colonial period, Shanghai became known as the Paris of the East. Even now much of its contemporary architecture is derivative of Western ideas.

This interdisciplinary study in history and the humanities focuses on the city of Shanghai in both a historical and cultural context. Students will examine the art and architecture, philosophy, literature, politics, music, and theatre of Shanghai to deepen the student's understanding of civilization, human values, and individual creativeness. (Offered fall and spring)

ANSO 1090 Geography: Economic and Cultural Issues of Asia (3 credit hours)
Explores the relationship between China and other areas of Asia and the Pacific, including Korea, Japan, and the Philippines.

Students will study major key cities and regions, relationships with Mainland China, and issues important to both Chinese people and leaders of Western business. (Offered fall and spring)

Additional Courses at SISU
Students with advanced Chinese proficiency may elect take courses offered regularly at the Shanghai International Studies University.

Supplemental Lecture Program
Throughout the semester, SISU faculty members will host lectures on the topics listed below. Students will be encouraged to attend these events to supplement their Chinese studies.

• Chinese International Relations
• Korean Peninsula
• Beijing Opera
• Chinese Costumes and Culture
• Boxer Rebellion