Chinese and Thai Studies BA

Program Overview

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The Chinese and Thai Studies BA at the University of Leeds provides students with advanced language skills and a deep understanding of the cultures and histories of China and Thailand. The program includes a two-year study abroad experience, allowing students to immerse themselves in the target languages and cultures. Graduates are well-equipped for careers in business, journalism, diplomacy, and other fields related to East Asia.

Program Outline

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Chinese and Thai Studies BA | University of Leeds

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Degree Overview:

This program offers a comprehensive exploration of Chinese and Thai languages and cultures, providing students with advanced language skills and a deep understanding of the historical, political, and social contexts of these fascinating countries. The program is designed for students with little to no prior knowledge of either language, as it starts from a beginner's level.

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Objectives:

• Develop advanced proficiency in both Chinese and Thai languages.
• Gain a comprehensive understanding of the cultural, political, and historical contexts of China and Thailand.
• Develop critical thinking and research skills through the study of various aspects of Chinese, Thai, and East Asian Studies.
• Prepare students for a range of careers in fields related to East Asia, including business, journalism, diplomacy, and translation.

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Outline:

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Year 1:

• Compulsory Modules:
• Modern China: History and Culture (20 credits)
• Foundations of East Asia (20 credits)
• Optional Modules (selection of typical options):
• Basic Chinese Language 1 (20 credits)
• Basic Chinese Language 2 (20 credits)
• Intermediate Chinese (1) (20 credits)
• Intermediate Chinese (2) (20 credits)
• Introduction to East Asian Religions and Philosophies (20 credits)
• Basic Thai Language and Culture 1 (20 credits)
• Basic Thai Language and Culture 2 (20 credits)

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Year 2:

• Compulsory Modules:
• LCS Year Abroad (120 credits) - This year is spent studying at a partner institution in mainland China or Taiwan.

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Year 3:

• Compulsory Modules:
• LCS Year Abroad (120 credits) - This year is spent studying at a partner institution in Thailand.

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Year 4:

• Compulsory Modules:
• The Making of Modern Thailand (20 credits)
• Chinese 2A (20 credits)
• Chinese 2B (20 credits)
• Intermediate Thai Language and Culture 1 (20 credits)
• Intermediate Thai Language and Culture 2 (20 credits)
• Optional Modules (selection of typical options):
• China Since 1979 (20 credits)
• Classical Chinese (20 credits)
• Society and Culture of Early Modern China (20 credits)
• Trauma Narratives in the Contemporary Sinophone World (20 credits)
• Chinese Cinema (20 credits)

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Year 5:

• Compulsory Modules:
• Chinese 3: Advanced Skills (20 credits)
• Advanced Thai Language and Culture (20 credits)
• Optional Modules (selection of typical options):
• Final Year Project: Dissertation (40 credits)
• Final Year Project: Extended Translation (40 credits)
• Final Year Project: Digital Documentary (40 credits)
• Religion in China (20 credits)
• Trauma Narratives in the Contemporary Sinophone World (20 credits)
• East Asia's Regional Political Economy (20 credits)
• Globalising China and the Developing World (20 credits)
• Advanced Chinese to English Translation (20 credits)
• Buddhism: A Lived Tradition (20 credits)

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Assessment:

• A range of assessment methods are used, including essays, exams, literature reviews, annotated bibliographies, digital projects, poster presentations, and translation projects.
• Students receive regular feedback on their coursework to help them track their progress.

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Teaching:

• Lecturers are experts in their fields and deliver instruction through lectures, workshops, small-group seminars, and tutorials.
• Language skills are developed in practical and interactive classes.
• Some modules may be taught in the target languages as students progress.
• Independent learning is encouraged, with the University Library offering comprehensive training programs to support student research skills.
• Students are taught by a diverse faculty, including lecturers, professors, industry professionals, and postgraduate researchers.

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Careers:

• The program equips students with valuable communication skills in two fast-growing economies, opening doors to a range of careers both within East Asia and globally.
• Graduates have pursued careers in business, journalism, publishing, diplomacy, tourism, teaching, broadcasting, overseas aid work, PR, and language-based roles such as translation and interpreting.
• The program also develops transferable skills highly sought after by employers, such as independent research, critical thinking, and effective communication.
• Postgraduate study in languages at Leeds or elsewhere provides an opportunity to continue learning and prepare for a PhD and a career in academia.

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Other:

• The University of Leeds has four libraries on campus, including a strong collection of modern Chinese books, Japanese holdings, and a growing East Asian Studies and Thai collection.
• The Language Zone provides free learning resources, including space for personal study, language learning software, and video, audio, books, and magazines.
• Students have access to support and advice before, during, and after their study abroad years, including networking opportunities with returning students and online resources.
• The Careers Centre and faculty staff offer guidance and support in career planning and decision-making.

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• Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students are set by the UK Government and will be £9,250 for students starting in 2024/25.
• Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students starting in 2025/26 have not yet been confirmed by the UK government.
When the fee is available we will update individual course pages. Fees for students starting in 2025/26 will be available from September 2024.
• Tuition fees for a study abroad or work placement year
If you take a study abroad or work placement year, you’ll pay a reduced tuition fee during this period.