Why Study Chinese?
Through the Chinese program, you develop language skills while exploring culture, philosophy, politics, and global systems. You gain the knowledge and perspective to navigate complex cultural and global contexts with confidence.
Language + Global Context
Study Chinese while exploring culture, philosophy, and global systems that shape the modern world.
Interdisciplinary by Design
Connect Chinese to fields like business, politics, ecology, and public policy.
Real-World Experience
Apply your learning through study abroad, research, and hands-on global experiences.
It’s a good fit for you if you:
- Enjoy learning languages and want to achieve a high level of proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing Chinese.
- Are interested in understanding the history, culture, politics, and societies of China and the broader Chinese-speaking world.
- Want to prepare for careers in international business, diplomacy, government, education, technology, or global affairs.
- Are excited about studying abroad and engaging directly with Chinese-speaking communities and cultures.
- Enjoy challenging yourself intellectually through language acquisition, cross-cultural communication, and global problem-solving.
Chinese pairs well with:
- Business
- Political Science
- International Studies
- Environmental Studies
The Chinese Major (B.A.)
The Chinese major combines advanced language study with an interdisciplinary exploration of culture, politics, philosophy, and global systems.
In-Demand Skills
You’ll gain skills in:
- Speaking, reading, and writing in Chinese
- Cross-cultural communication
- Analytical thinking and research
- Understanding global systems and contexts
Interdisciplinary Curriculum:
You’ll complete 24 credit hours, including coursework that integrates language study with fields such as politics, business, ecology, and cultural studies, making the major highly adaptable across disciplines.
The Chinese major pairs well with minors or second majors across the arts, sciences, and social sciences.
The Chinese Minor
24 Credit Hours | 1.5 to 2 semesters of coursework
Build language skills and global perspective that complement any major.
The Chinese minor gives students from any field the opportunity to study Chinese language, culture, and global contexts in an integrated way. It’s designed to strengthen your primary area of study with linguistic ability and cross-cultural understanding.
Coursework includes language study from beginner through advanced levels, along with courses in culture, politics, and global systems.
Students do not need prior knowledge of Chinese to pursue this minor.
Meet the Faculty
Faculty don’t just bring Chinese culture to the classroom—they connect students to real Chinese-speaking communities around the world, providing opportunities for internships and study abroad in these areas of the globe.
Recent Graduate Careers
A Trinity Chinese major or minor combines advanced language study with cultural fluency and global perspective. Through immersive experiences—including required study abroad and international partnerships—students develop the skills to navigate cross-cultural environments and pursue careers in an increasingly interconnected world.
Global Business and International Careers
Graduates pursue opportunities in international business, finance, and global markets, applying language proficiency and cultural knowledge to work across borders. Many leverage their experience in Chinese-speaking regions to build careers in multinational organizations and global industries.
Education, Translation, and Cultural Exchange
Graduates pursue careers in teaching, translation, and cultural programming, helping bridge linguistic and cultural divides. Trinity also offers teacher certification in Chinese, preparing students for careers in language education and international exchange..
Government, Policy, and International Affairs
Chinese students are well prepared for roles in foreign policy, public service, and international relations. Their understanding of global systems, political contexts, and cross-cultural communication supports work in government agencies, NGOs, and international organizations.
Interdisciplinary and Professional Pathways
Students develop strong analytical, communication, and cross-cultural skills that translate to a wide range of professional roles, opening pathways across industries.
Get Your Questions Answered
Students interested in the Chinese major or minor are encouraged to:
Meet with an academic adviser to explore introductory courses in Chinese, review degree requirements in the course catalog, and contact the Department of Modern Languages and Literatures with any advising questions.