BA (Hons) in Chinese Studies and English Literature, Lancaster University

Lancaster,

48 Months

Check Eligibility

About this course

Lancaster's joint Chinese Studies and English Literature degree is delivered by the School of Global Affairs and the Department of English Literature and Creative Writing. This four-year full-time programme offers students a dynamic learning experience, enabling them to acquire beginner-level Chinese language skills while exploring China’s historical, cultural, social, and political contexts on a global scale. Simultaneously, students will study a wide range of authors, genres, and literary movements in English Literature, developing critical approaches and appreciation for diverse texts. The course emphasizes innovative language learning methods, including engaging activities through the Chinese Friendship Project, and includes an international placement year abroad, which is a vital part of the programme. This allows students to enhance their language proficiency and intercultural competence in real-world settings. The final year enables consolidation of language skills through specialized modules and opportunities for integrated projects combining both subjects.

Why this course is highly recommended

This course is ideal for students interested in Chinese language and culture, combined with a passion for English literature. Its unique approach includes engaging learning activities like cultural projects and a mandatory international placement year, facilitating real-world language use and intercultural sensitivity. The programme’s strong reputation is reflected in its high rankings for Iberian, French, and Italian languages, and Lancaster's expertise in these areas. Studying abroad for a year enhances language skills and cultural awareness, making graduates highly employable in global contexts. The course uniquely combines linguistic competence with literary and cultural analysis, opening doors to careers in translation, teaching, diplomacy, cultural management, and more.

Specialisation

The programme focuses on acquiring Chinese language skills from beginner level in conjunction with in-depth understanding of Chinese culture, history, and society, alongside a thorough exploration of English Literature. Students can choose modules based on their interests, spanning literary analysis, cultural studies, and language skills across different proficiency levels. The course’s structure includes a year abroad in a Chinese-speaking country and offers optional modules in creative writing, world literature, and Chinese culture. It emphasizes both language proficiency and critical cultural understanding, preparing students for intercultural careers or further academic pursuits.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

26.07L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants should meet A level requirements of AAB, including evidence of language learning ability through either a B in a foreign language or a GCSE grade 7/A. Other accepted qualifications include the Access to HE Diploma, BTEC Extended Diploma (DDD), IB with 35 points, or Scottish Highers and Advanced Highers, provided language ability is demonstrated. The course also requires an IELTS score of 6.5 overall with at least 5.5 in each component. There are no specific GCSE requirements aside from overall profile consideration. Entry into the beginners Chinese course mandates no prior Mandarin proficiency.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

Career prospects

Graduates of this joint degree will develop strong intercultural, linguistic, and analytical skills, positioning them for diverse careers. Opportunities include roles in publishing, journalism, translating, teaching, cultural diplomacy, and international business. The course prepares students for further postgraduate studies, including translation, languages and cultures, and creative writing. Alumni have gone into various fields such as media, civil service, research, and consultancy. The programme's emphasis on intercultural competence, language proficiency, and critical analysis makes graduates attractive to employers in global companies, NGOs, and government agencies, both in the UK and abroad.

FAQs

What are the entry requirements for this course?

Typically, AAB in A levels with evidence of language ability, IELTS 6.5, and additional qualifications like IB or Scottish Highers are required. Applicants should have appropriate language learning background, such as a B in a foreign language or GCSE grade 7/A.

Is studying abroad compulsory?

Yes, the international placement year abroad is a mandatory and assessed part of the course, providing valuable real-world language practice and intercultural experience.