Chinese
The Chinese program provides students with an opportunity to concentrate on acquiring expertise in an important modern language and its culture. Giving students a strong working knowledge of the Chinese language and understanding of Chinese culture, the program can help prepare students for work in contexts where the language and culture are pertinent, to live and work in Sinophone areas of the world as informed and capable individuals equipped with appropriate intercultural skills and awareness, or for graduate study in China-related fields. Graduates may work in government service, domestic and foreign offices, or international agencies. Many go on to teach English in China, or to do translation work. Employment may also be available with trade organizations, international banks, or U.S. companies abroad. Domestic and multinational companies are increasingly seeking employees with backgrounds in multicultural studies as a way of dealing with the global market.
Degree Types: Bachelor of Arts, Minor
Degree Options
Popular Double Majors or Minors
- Asian Studies
- Global and International Studies
- Political Science
- Business
About the Program
Why should I pursue this degree?
You might like this program if…
- You are interested in Chinese language, culture, history, and society.
- You want to live or work in a Sinophone country.
- You are aiming for a career involving travel to Sinophone countries and interaction with native speakers of Chinese.
Transferable Skills
- Cross-Cultural Communication
- Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving
- Attention to Detail and Organizational Skills
- Research and Analytical Skills
- Adaptability
Coursework
Opportunities to explore the following topics:
- Chinese Language
- Chinese Film and New Media
- The Great Books of China
- Culture and Trends in China
- Gender and Sexuality in China
Out-of-Classroom Experiences
Internships
- AlphaSights
- Penn State Division of Development and Alumni Affairs
- Imerys
Education Abroad Destinations
Austria
China
Japan
South Korea
Career Paths
Continuing Education
- Medical school
- Graduate school to study criminology, chinese, developmental and stem cell biology, history, accounting, and marketing
Job Titles
- International Business Consultant
- Foreign Affairs Officer
- National Security
- Analyst
- Global Commodity Manager
- Political Analyst
- TESOL Teacher
- Translator
- Lawyer
Industries
Consulting, Education, Finance, Management, Sales
Employers
- Microsoft
- Bank of America
- Deloitte
- U.S. Department of State
- United Nations
- U.S. Airforce
- Peace Corps
Have questions about this program?
Future students, contact the Liberal Arts Recruitment Team.
Current students, contact your academic adviser.
This program is housed
in the Department of Asian Studies
at Penn State University Park.