Chinese
Chinese Major
The Chinese major combines thorough training in spoken and written Chinese language with the development of critical approaches to a broad range of Chinese cultural phenomena including classical and modern literature, visual arts, film, popular culture, and underlying aspects of philosophical and social thought. Most courses are conducted in Chinese with readings in Chinese.
The major, which is not open to advanced native speakers due to the limited number of advanced courses, begins with language work and a writing-intensive introduction to important issues in East Asian culture (CHIN-024 “East Asia: Texts and Contexts”), and proceeds through advanced coursework in language and culture, classical and modern (often including a semester or year abroad). In order to familiarize themselves with relevant critical and historical issues in the field, students must take at least one of the courses on Chinese culture offered by the department in English in addition to “East Asia: Texts and Contexts.” The major culminates in a Senior Seminar paper or Senior Honors Thesis on a topic of the student’s interest within the area of Chinese cultural studies.
In addition to courses offered by this department, a wide variety of Asian studies courses is available through other departments. It is highly recommended that Chinese majors fulfill their general education history requirement by taking courses in Chinese or Asian history. Beyond that, China-related courses are offered in Economics, Government, International Affairs, Theology, and other fields. These can serve as free electives for Chinese majors, or can in some cases fulfill general education requirements. Finally, such outside courses can often be counted toward an Asian Studies Certificate through the Area Studies Programs. Students should seek help from their department advisers in developing a well-integrated academic program built around their interests and drawing upon this rich variety of resources.
Chinese majors are required to spend at least one semester studying in a Chinese-speaking country, and may spend up to one year. Opportunities for overseas study in Mainland China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong are available through Georgetown. (For more on programs, see Resources and Study Abroad.)
Chinese Minor
Students majoring in other fields, particularly those involving Asian studies, are encouraged to minor in Chinese. The Chinese minor requires seven courses, at least six of which must be CHIN language courses or advanced courses conducted in target language. The seventh course may either be another CHIN course in the target language, a CHIN course taught in English, or, by permission of the EALC department, a Georgetown course with Chinese literature, culture/civilization, or linguistics as a substantial component.
Study Abroad
Professor Kafalas is the department’s study abroad advisor for Chinese. He encourages you to start your hunt for a Chinese study abroad program.
(For more on programs, see Resources and Study Abroad.)