Chinese Program

The Chinese Program offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate courses in Chinese language, literature, linguistics and translation-interpretation. It also provides the following degree options: Master of Arts in Chinese, Bachelor of Arts in Chinese (major) and a minor in Chinese.

Study Chinese at San Francisco State University —  with a vast selection of courses, dedicated full-time faculty and students from all corners of the globe, your experience in cosmopolitan San Francisco promises to be the experience of a lifetime. The Chinese program offers Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Chinese, together with a professionally oriented Chinese Flagship Program and a graduate-level Strategic Language Initiative (SLI) Translation-Interpretation Certificate Program. Explore the different degree options and find out more about studying Chinese at San Francisco State University.

Founded in 1959, the Chinese Program at San Francisco State University provides comprehensive degree programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. For all major and minor options, the Chinese Program offers electives taught in both English and Chinese which provide insight into one of the world’s oldest civilizations and inspire the student to view the modern world from alternative perspectives. Courses on modern literature and film, taught in Chinese, reflect the dynamic transformations of contemporary Chinese society and culture. Training in the fundamentals of linguistics complements program goals by revealing the underlying structures of language. To prepare students as fully as possible for future challenges, the Chinese Program balances traditional academic offerings with practical courses such as Business Chinese, Media Chinese and Web Chinese, which equip students with career-related language skills.

Important Information

Do you already know some Chinese? Took Chinese in high school or speak the language at home? Take the department's Chinese Placement Test to see what Chinese language class best suits you. Read instructions carefully before starting the test.

To declare a major or minor, complete a Declaration of Major/Minor form, then make an appointment to see the program advisor. Bring a copy of your most recent university transcript to the meeting.

View additional resources such as:

  • Chinese Flagship Program
  • Strategic Language Initiative
  • SINITIC: Journal of Chinese Linguistic and Literary Studies
  • Media Coverage for the Program
  • Additional External Resources

Chinese Course Descriptions

Chinese Program on Facebook

Undergraduate Programs

Chinese: Concentration in Chinese Language

The Bachelor of Arts in Chinese: Concentration in Chinese Language is designed for students with little or no background in Chinese language.

Chinese: Concentration in Chinese Literature and Linguistics

The Bachelor of Arts in Chinese: Concentration in Chinese Literature and Linguistics is aimed at native and near-native speakers of Chinese language.

SFSU Accelerated Bachelor's + Master's

The SFSU Accelerated Bachelor's + Master's Program in Chinese is designed for motivated undergraduate Chinese majors who wish to complete both their Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees within a five year timeframe.

 

Chinese (Chinese Literature & Linguistics) BA + Chinese MA SF State Scholars Roadmap

Minor in Chinese Language

The Minor in Chinese Language is designed for beginning language learners, and is focused on the buildup of proficiency in the Modern Standard Language.

 

Learn more about the Minor in Chinese Language.

Minor in Chinese Literature and Linguistics

The Minor in Chinese Literature and Linguistics, is designed for native and near-native speakers, and requires coursework in advanced language, classical language, linguistics, literature, culture and oratory.

 

Learn more about the Minor in Chinese Literature and Linguistics.

Graduate Programs

Master of Arts in Chinese

The Master of Arts in Chinese provides advanced training in the areas of literature, linguistics and pedagogy, building a solid foundation for further study and language-related careers. Many of our M.A. graduates advance to study and research at the doctoral level, and others develop skills for China-related careers, including teaching Chinese as a second language, international business and law, and translation and interpretation.

Program Contacts