Chinese Language Program

The University of Kansas offers Chinese through the Department of East Asian Languages and Cultures (EALC).

Why Study Chinese?

China has one of the fastest economic growth rates in the world and holds one quarter of the world's population. It is a country with an ancient and fascinating history, and a complex and interesting role to play in the present. The University of Kansas has taught Chinese since 1959 and has since had the strongest Chinese language program in the Great Plains.

Students can use Chinese to fulfill a language requirement, or as part of numerous degree programs, including majors, minors and graduate degrees.

Knowledge of Chinese language and culture is an asset in a wide range of careers. Students taking Chinese can also apply for scholarships for language study, including FLAS Fellowships.

Available Courses

KU offers elementary through advanced coursework in Chinese. See all courses taught at KU below, or check out our list of what's offered for the current semester. For placement information visit the School of Languages, Literatures and Cultures.

KU Chinese Language Courses

Study Abroad

KU offers numerous opportunities to study abroad in China. Some of these programs have classes taught in English, while others are opportunities for advanced language study.

Degrees

Chinese language courses can be a part of many degree programs, whether used to fulfill a language requirement, or completing a major, minor or graduate degree focused on East Asia. Here are a few degree programs students frequently combine with Chinese language study, but talk to your academic advisor to explore all your options.

Many students who study Chinese choose to complete a major, minor, or graduate degree with the Department of East Asian Languages and Cultures. The Center for East Asian Studies also offers an M.A. in Contemporary East Asian Studies.
Many other degree programs within the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences offer significant content on China, and also require foreign language study, which can be met with Chinese. For more information, look at current degree requirements and course offerings in Anthropology, Art History, Geography, Global and International Studies, History, Political Science, Religious Studies and Sociology.
For students who want to teach Chinese at the K-12 level, check out degree options through the KU School of Education.
The KU School of Business offers a concentration in International Business which can include substantial content on Chinese language, culture and business.
For Law students, KU offers a joint degree in Law and East Asian Languages and Cultures.

Career Planning

The KU Career Center has online resources for exploring career paths for different majors. Check out the specifics for East Asian Languages and Cultures, or look at those for other majors (including those listed above.)
KU students can also sign up for a free account with My World Abroad, which has extensive resources on preparing for an international career, including career options, and job search tips.