Major overview
Spoken by 1.4 billion people, Chinese is the world’s most spoken first language. China also has one of the world’s most vibrant economies and is Australia's largest trading partner.
With Asia’s continuing social and economic growth, an understanding of Chinese language and culture is increasingly important in global engagement.
In this major you'lll gain the knowledge and skills required for a diverse international career. You'll develop a high level of literacy in Chinese – listening, speaking, reading and writing – and a deep understanding of Chinese culture and society.
You’ll also undertake a research project where you’ll study social changes in a Chinese community.
Previous study of Chinese is not required for this major. If you have studied Chinese before, advanced classes are available.
Chinese is offered as part of the Bachelor of Arts. You can enhance your studies with a second major or choose from a range of elective units that support your career goals. You could also apply for a study abroad program at a partner university in China to test your skills.
This major is also available as part of a Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Commerce double degree.
Detailed course structure and unit information
For detailed information on units and course structure, visit our Handbook.
Why study at Curtin?
Study abroad
Apply for a study abroad program at a partner university in China to test your skills.
Industry experts
Learn from teaching staff with extensive industry experience and research expertise in Chinese media, popular culture and working identity.
Interactive learning
Benefit from interactive classroom learning and online Chinese language resources to help you build the skills for effective intercultural communications.
How to study this major
You can study this major as part of any of the degrees below. A major is a set of eight or more units you complete as part of a degree, including at least two in your final year. The units may vary depending on the degree you choose.
Degrees
Double degrees
Career outcomes
Career examples
- Business administrator
- Research officer
- Foreign affairs and trade officer
- Interpreter / translator
- Tourism officer / tour guide
- Welfare worker
- Teacher – English as a Second Language (requires an additional teaching qualification).
Industries
- Education
- Foreign affairs and trade
- Global business / international relations
- Government / public service
- Media
- Mining and minerals production
- Tourism.
Why study at Curtin?
Study abroad
Apply for a study abroad program at a partner university in China to test your skills.
Industry experts
Learn from teaching staff with extensive industry experience and research expertise in Chinese media, popular culture and working identity.
Interactive learning
Benefit from interactive classroom learning and online Chinese language resources to help you build the skills for effective intercultural communications.
How to apply
This major is part of a degree. To apply, choose the degree you want to study and review its entry requirements. Then, prepare any required documents and submit your application before the deadline for your chosen intake.
After you receive and accept your offer, you can enrol in this major either at the start of your degree or later in your studies, depending on your course structure.
Choose your degree
To study this major, you'll need to apply one of the degrees listed below.Degrees
Double degrees
For full entry requirements, fees and information for international students, visit the course page.
Explore more
Find more resources to help you take the next step in your Curtin journey.