Chinese
Program Information
More than twice as many people speak Mandarin Chinese as any other language in the world. Chinese is indeed one of the most important global languages today, and being able to speak it is an asset to anyone engaged in international business, who has an interest in government service, or who is curious about the richness of a vast and layered culture mixed with a vibrant, bustling contemporary society.
At Washington State University, the Chinese program offers three years of Chinese language study and several courses taught in English on Chinese and Asian culture. Students can major or minor in Chinese, or they can major in Asian Studies with an emphasis on China. Currently, we have students pursuing Chinese philosophy and martial arts, mixing Chinese with work toward an MBA, engineering, English teachers, and international students from Japan and Korea.
In the Pacific Northwest, there is more trade with Chinese-speaking nations than with any other place on the globe, and this is only increasing. Chinese is one of the highest skill priorities for the FBI, CIA, NSA, and Foreign Service. The links between China and the United States are of vital interest to all. Blending Chinese with a variety of other majors and career pursuits will afford the enterprising student the sort of edge necessary for success in this increasingly competitive marketplace.
For additional program information and to view an example of schedule for studying Chinese, click here.
Study Abroad
China is a vast civilization dating back several thousand years. Exploring this fascinating culture, its people and geography is affordable, and students can gain course credit while abroad.
There are several excellent opportunities for study abroad in china; Beijing (intensive language), Harbin (intensive language), Chengdu (Sichuan University) and (Southwest University for Nationals), and Shanghai (Shanghai University, Yanchang campus).
For information about study abroad programs, visit the Office of International Programs Study Abroad Programs.
Meet Our Chinese Program Faculty
- Professor Weiguo Cao, Associate Professor of Chinese
- Professor Xinmin Liu, Associate Professor of Chinese