MA CHINESE STUDIES

Program Overview

The MA in Chinese Studies at Maynooth University offers a profound specialization in Chinese languages, literatures, and cultures. It equips students with analytical, research, and presentation skills, fostering critical thinking and reflection on China's complexities. The program provides flexibility, allowing students to exit with a Postgraduate Diploma or pursue a full Master's degree, preparing graduates for diverse careers in government, business, education, and research.

Program Outline

MA in Chinese Studies

Degree Overview:

The MA in Chinese Studies provides students with a profound specialization in cultural and literary analysis, focusing on the complexities of communication and conflict within the Sinosphere and between China and the West. This rigorous program equips students with the necessary academic, analytical, creative, reflective, and presentation skills to excel in the field of Chinese languages, literatures, and cultures. It fosters a deep understanding of important concepts related to Chinese languages, literatures, cultures, and societies, with a particular emphasis on mainland China. Students can choose individual modules of interest or exit with a Postgraduate Diploma (Level 9) in Chinese Studies after completing 60 credits of taught modules.

Objectives:

• Equip students with advanced analytical and research skills.
• Foster critical thinking and reflection on Chinese languages, literatures, and cultures.
• Develop students' ability to engage with complex issues related to conflict and communication within the Sinosphere and between China and the West.

Outline:

The MA in Chinese Studies is divided into two elements:

Taught modules (60 ECTS):

• Students are required to take one language module (5 ECTS) and two content modules offered by Chinese Studies each semester.
• Additionally, students must complete three content modules offered by the SMLLC:
• Research Skills 1: Data Collection (CAF603) (5 ECTS)
• Introduction to Intercultural Studies (GN612A) (5 ECTS)
• Theories of Second Language Acquisition (ALIS620) (5 ECTS)

Dissertation (Minor Thesis) (30 ECTS):

• Students complete a minor thesis under the supervision of SMLLC full-time members of staff.
• The dissertation is typically focused on a research topic of the student's choice related to Chinese languages, literatures, and cultures.
• The Viva Voce Examination, conducted at least partly in Mandarin Chinese, takes place in early June.

Semester 1:

• CN610: Mandarin Chinese Level A-1 (5 ECTS)
• CN611: Readings in Contemporary Chinese Culture and Current Affairs A-1 (5 ECTS)
• CFA603: Research Skills 1: Data Collection (5 ECTS)
• GN612A: Introduction to Intercultural Studies (5 ECTS)
• ALIS620: Theories of Second Language Acquisition (5 ECTS)
• CN613: Conflict and Communication: A Changing China in a Globalizing World I (10 ECTS)

Semester 2:

• CN620: Mandarin Chinese Level A-2 (5 ECTS)
• CN621: Readings in Contemporary Chinese Culture and Current Affairs A-2 (5 ECTS)
• CN622: Conflict and Communication: A Changing China in a Globalizing World II (10 ECTS)
• CN624: Viva Voce Examination (5 ECTS)
• CN625: Minor Thesis (30 ECTS)

Assessment:

Assessment methods for the program include:

• Examinations: Written examinations are held in January and May/June, covering the content of the taught modules.
• Viva Voce Examination: This oral examination, conducted in Mandarin Chinese, assesses the student's understanding of their research topic and dissertation.
• Minor Thesis: The dissertation is assessed by the student's supervisor and an external examiner, based on the quality of research, writing, and analysis.
• Continuous Assessment: Some modules may include continuous assessments such as essays, presentations, or participation in class discussions.

Teaching:

The MA in Chinese Studies is taught by experienced and qualified faculty members from the Department of Chinese and the School of Modern Languages, Literatures and Cultures. The program utilizes various teaching methods, including:

• Lectures: Providing students with foundational knowledge and key concepts.
• Seminars: Facilitating discussion and debate on complex issues related to Chinese culture and society.
• Language Classes: Developing students' proficiency in Mandarin Chinese.
• Research Skills Workshops: Equipping students with the necessary research tools and techniques.

Careers:

The MA in Chinese Studies prepares graduates for a wide range of careers in diverse fields, including:

• Government: Working in diplomatic services, international relations, or foreign policy departments.
• Business: Working for multinational corporations or organizations with operations in China.
• Education: Teaching Chinese language or literature at various levels.
• Media and Communication: Working as journalists, translators, or interpreters.
• Research and Academia: Pursuing further research in Chinese languages, literature, or cultures.
• Non-Governmental Organizations: Working with organizations focused on human rights, development, or cultural exchange.

Other:

• The program is designed for students with a strong foundation in Chinese language and culture, typically obtained through a Bachelor's degree in Chinese Studies or a related field.
• Students are expected to demonstrate proficiency in Mandarin Chinese at the HSK Level IV or equivalent.
• The program commences in September.
• The program offers the option to study individual modules without completing the full Master's degree.
• Students can exit with a Postgraduate Diploma (Level 9) in Chinese Studies after completing 60 credits of taught modules.

Summary: The MA in Chinese Studies offered by Maynooth University provides students with a comprehensive and enriching experience, fostering a deep understanding of China's complex cultural landscape and equipping them with the necessary skills to excel in various careers related to Chinese language, literature, and culture.