Saint Martin's University

What you'll study

This programme blends courses in Chinese language, linguistic theory and Chinese literary studies to give students both practical communication skills and critical, analytical tools. Core language work moves from intermediate to advanced Modern Standard Chinese, covering listening, speaking, reading and writing, and includes instruction in Chinese phonetics, grammar and characters.

• Chinese language sequence – progressive coursework in spoken and written Mandarin, character literacy, and advanced composition.
• Chinese linguistics – phonology and phonetics of Chinese, morphology and syntax, historical linguistics, sociolinguistics and language acquisition.
• Literary survey – introductions to classical Chinese literature, medieval and early modern poetry and prose, and modern and contemporary Chinese fiction and drama.
• Genre and theory – literary theory, comparative literature techniques, and thematic seminars (for example: urban modernity, gender and literature, and film and visual culture).
• Translation and practical skills – translation practice between Chinese and English, subtitling, editorial skills and language for specific purposes (business, diplomacy, media).
• Capstone project – a senior seminar or independent research project that integrates linguistic analysis and literary interpretation, or a practicum such as a translation portfolio or community language project.

Students are encouraged to complement their major with electives in history, political science, media studies or computer-assisted language learning. Opportunities for intensive language study through summer programmes or semester abroad can be incorporated into the degree pathway to strengthen spoken fluency and cultural understanding.

Entry requirements

Typical entry to the bachelor’s degree requires a secondary school qualification equivalent to a high school diploma. Admissions panels look for solid academic preparation with strengths in language, humanities or social sciences.

• Transcripts demonstrating satisfactory academic standing at secondary level.
• Evidence of language aptitude: prior study of a foreign language is helpful but not always required; placements determine starting level in Chinese courses.
• Personal statement outlining interest in Chinese language, linguistics or literature and academic goals.
• Letters of recommendation are normally welcomed, particularly from teachers in language, literature or related disciplines.
• International applicants will need to meet the university’s English language proficiency requirements (for example via recognised tests or institutional measures).

Applicants transferring from other institutions should submit college transcripts; placement testing will determine course level on entry.

Career prospects

Graduates with expertise in Chinese linguistics and literature pursue a wide range of careers both in the private and public sectors. Core career paths include:

• Translation and interpretation – written and spoken language work for publishers, media companies, legal and medical services, and international organisations.
• Education – teaching Chinese or English as a second language at schools, language institutes or adult education programmes; pathway to teacher certification or graduate study in education.
• International business and government – roles in diplomacy, trade, policy analysis, and cultural liaison positions where linguistic and cultural competence is an asset.
• Publishing, journalism and media – editorial roles, cultural reporting, subtitling and localisation for film, television and digital media.
• Academic and research careers – further study at graduate level in linguistics, comparative literature, area studies or related fields.
• Non‑profit and cultural organisations – programme coordination, outreach and community engagement focused on Asian studies, translation access and cross‑cultural communication.

Why study at Saint Martin's University

Saint Martin's University offers a liberal‑arts environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentoring, which benefits language learning and seminar‑style literary study. The university’s commitment to undergraduate teaching means students have regular access to faculty advisers for research supervision, practicum placements and career guidance.

The programme is designed to be flexible: students can combine Chinese linguistics and literature with minors or majors in related fields such as international studies, business or education. Practical learning opportunities — including language labs, translation projects and encouragement to pursue study‑abroad or summer intensive programmes — help students build real‑world skills alongside academic knowledge.

Graduates leave with strong communicative competence in Chinese, analytical training in linguistics and literature, and preparation for both professional roles and further graduate study.