Chinese Language
About Chinese
Our Program and Courses
The ability to speak Chinese and understand its varieties and cultural impact has never been more valuable given China’s growing global influence. In small classes that emphasize close collaboration between students and professors, you will develop the tools to reflect critically on the cultural practices, products and perspectives of the Chinese-speaking world and your own.
Minor in Area Studies: Asian Studies (China)
You can minor in Asian Studies (China) through F&M’s International Studies program. Our Area Studies minor allows you to tailor your academic experience by focusing your minor on a specific region of the world.
By the time you graduate, you will:
- Have attained proficiency in Chinese and be able to communicate effectively and cohesively orally and in writing
- Be able to demonstrate a solid knowledge of relevant and current social debates through the news, art, history, film, music and literature.
- Be able to present, connect, and analyze Chinese literature and discuss the perspectives they represent.
- Have learned modes of critical analysis that enhance and inform your own questions and interests.
- Be able to build linguistic, cultural, and cross-cultural competence.
Chinese Language Placement Exam
If you’re admitted to F&M and plan to study Chinese, you may be asked to complete a language placement exam. You will complete this test the summer before you arrive on campus.
Wondering what a Chinese course is like? Take a look at our course catalog to explore what’s available to you.
Our Faculty and Staff
Jin Gong
Visiting Assistant Professor, Chinese Language Program
Jennifer Redmann
Professor of German, Department Chair of German, Russian & East Asian Languages (Chinese,
Japanese)
Learning Outside the Classroom
Off-Campus Study
When learning a foreign language, it’s important to experience its use in communities
that speak it natively. Each summer, students will have the option to study abroad
in China, with longer visits possible when demand and availability allow. Some of
the most popular programs include studying at the Institute for Study Abroad (IFSA)
in Shanghai, The Alliance for Global Education in Shanghai, CET in Kunming, China,
and the School for International Training (SIT) China.
Learn more about off-campus study at F&M
Success Beyond F&M
The tremendous success of F&M graduates demonstrates the tangible value of an F&M degree when compared to national outcomes. Within six months after graduation, 92% of the Class of 2024 were either employed or furthering their education. This is higher than the national average, which is typically in the mid-80% range. And by studying Chinese at F&M, the interpretive skills and creative thinking abilities you gain are valuable for any post-college plan.
Alumni Spotlight
“These experiences sparked my interest in global affairs and diplomacy, nurturing my dream of becoming a diplomat myself one day.”
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Alumni Spotlight
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