The Department of East Asian Studies has a strong Chinese Language program, with general instruction available in three levels, from beginning to advanced, plus specialized instruction in advanced reading, writing, and conversation. In addition, there are opportunities for overseas Study Abroad programs.
Faculty
- Lecturer Hongyi Jia joined the program in 2017. She received her PhD in East Asian Studies from the University of Arizona and serves as the Interim Director of the Chinese Language Program.
- Instructor Chia-yu Liu joined the program in 2023, serving as an exchange instructor in partnership with the Taiwan Bilingual Exchanges of Selected Talent (BEST) Program. She received her MA degree from Wenzao Ursuline University of Languages.
- Instructor Xia Zhang joined the program in 2007. She received her MA degree from the University of Iowa.
Together, they direct a staff of graduate teaching assistants in East Asian Studies.
Language Testing
For full information, FAQs, and registration links please see the language testing information page.
Placement Exams: Before enrolling in Chinese language classes, students may be required to take a placement exam to determine their level. These tests are given during the week before the start of each semester.
Proficiency Exams: The Chinese Language program offers proficiency exams in Mandarin to allow students to complete their foreign language requirement without taking classes. These tests are given during the week before the start of each semester.
Classes
CHN 101 - Elementary Chinese I
Introduction to modern spoken and written Chinese (Mandarin) for non-native speakers. Native speakers may not take this course.
CHN 102 - Elementary Chinese II
Introduction to modern spoken and written Chinese (Mandarin) for non-native speakers. Native speakers may not take this course.
CHN 201 - Intermediate Modern Chinese I
Grammar, reading, and conversation in the modern (Mandarin) language for non-native speakers. Native speakers may not take this course.
CHN 202 - Intermediate Modern Chinese II
Grammar, reading, and conversation in the modern (Mandarin) language for non-native speakers. Native speakers may not take this course.
CHN 301 - Third Year Chinese I
Advanced conversation, grammar, reading, and writing in modern Chinese for non-native speakers. Native speakers may not take this course
CHN 302 - Third-Year Chinese II
Advanced conversation, grammar, reading, and writing in Modern Chinese for non-native speakers. Native speakers may not take this course.
CHN 415/515 - Advanced Modern Chinese: Readings in Social Science Texts
Study of advanced modern (Mandarin) Chinese through readings in social science texts for non-native speakers. Native speakers may not take this course.
CHN 417/517 - Advanced Modern Chinese: Readings in Modern Literature
Study of advanced modern (Mandarin) Chinese through readings in modern literature for non-native speakers. Native speakers may not take this course.
Study Abroad
Information for Study Abroad in Taiwan during Summer 2025
Chinese Language Table
The Chinese Language Table is an opportunity for students studying or interested in the Chinese language to practice their language skills outside the classroom. It is held every Friday, from noon to 1:00 p.m., in the Learning Service Building, room 107. Students not only have the opportunity to practice their Chinese with their classmates and the Chinese language instructors, but also engage in cultural activities, such as calligraphy.
