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MA CHINESE STUDIES
- Qualification
- Master Of Arts Degree
- CAO/MU Apply code
- MH70A
- Award Type and NFQ level
- TAUGHT MASTERS (9)
- Study Mode
- Full time
- Closing Date
- 27 August 2027
Overview
The MA in Chinese Studies aims to provide students who already have a background in Chinese language and culture at undergraduate level with an opportunity to specialise in the area of cultural and literary analysis with particular emphasis on the conflict and communication within the Sinosphere (mainland China, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau) and between China and the West. The programme introduces students to academic research, new ideas and theoretical approaches. It aims to equip students with academic, analytical, creative, reflective and presentation skills in order to foster interest and involvement in the field of Chinese languages, literatures and cultures. It also aims to enhance students’ knowledge and understanding of important concepts of Chinese languages, literatures, cultures and societies, in particular with regard to mainland China.
It is possible to study modules of particular interest without completing a Masters degree or to exit with a Postgraduate Diploma (Level 9) in Chinese Studies after completing 60 credits of taught modules.
Commences
September
Course structure
Duration: 1 year full-time
The programme involves two elements: a set of modules (60 ECTS) on which students will be examined in January (30 ECTS) and in May/June (30 ECTS), and a dissertation (Minor Thesis) which students complete after their second semester (30 ECTS).
- In each semester, students are obliged to take one language module (5 ECTS) and two content modules offered by Chinese Studies.
- Students have to take three content modules offered by the SMLLC: Research Skills 1: Data Collection CAF603 (5 ECTS), Introduction to Intercultural Studies GN612A (5 ECTS) and Theories of Second Language Acquisition ALIS620 (5ECTS).
- The Viva Voce Examination (conducted – at least partly – in Mandarin Chinese) will take place in early June. Normally, the external examiner, the Head of Chinese Studies and the thesis supervisor will all be present and act as examiners so as to ensure international standards.
- The minor theses will be supervised by SMLLC full-time members of staff after consultation with the student.
Semester 1
CN610 Mandarin Chinese Level A-1 (5 ECTS)
CN611 Readings in Contemporary Chinese Culture and Current Affairs A-1 (5 ECTS)
CFA603 Research Skills 1:Data Collection (5 ECTS)
GN612A Introduction to Intercultural Studies (5 ECTS)
ALIS620 Theories of Second Language Acquisition (5 ECTS)
CN613 Conflict and Communication: A Changing China in a Globalizing World I (10 ECTS)
Semester 2
CN620 Mandarin Chinese Level A-2 (5 ECTS)
CN621 Readings in Contemporary Chinese Culture and Current Affairs A-2 (5 ECTS)
CN622 Conflict and Communication: A Changing China in a Globalizing World II (10 ECTS)
CN624 Viva Voce Examination (5 ECTS)
CN625 Minor Thesis (30 ECTS)
Disclaimer
The modules below are indicative of the content associated with this course of study.
The modules are subject to change as the curriculum is revised and reviewed annually.
Important: The information on this page is for prospective students, MU current students and staff should use Programme Directory.
Careers after your Masters
The programme can deliver much-needed specialisms (and ultimately specialists) in Chinese language, culture, history and society. It was designed for competent students with a BA in Chinese Studies who want to pursue a professional career in the field of Chinese-EU (and Irish) relations in political, economic, business, diplomatic, pedagogical, historical, cultural and related fields.
Entry Requirements
Applicants who hold a minimum of a Bachelor Honours degree (NFQ Level 8) (or equivalent) with a minimum of a Second-Class Honours, Grade 1 (2:1) in Chinese Studies or a related discipline.
Applicants are required to have a minimum HSK Level IV in Chinese and provide evidence of this.
If you do not meet the standard entry requirements then you may be eligible to apply under the University's Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy. Please click here for further information.
Applicants for whom English is not their first language are required to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study. For information about English language tests accepted and required scores, please see here.
How to apply
Applications must be made via the MU Apply portal. Please click here to start your application.
When making your application, please ensure you prepare any documents listed below. You may be required to submit documents in two stages. You will be required to upload and submit the following documents with your application:
- Full academic transcripts for all semesters/ years completed to date
- Graduation Certificate if you have graduated
- A copy of your passport
- Up to date CV
You will be required to upload the following documents after you submit your application:
- HSK Level IV Certificate and CV
- If English is not your first language, you may be required to upload evidence of English language proficiency. For information please click here.