NUS revamps Chinese Studies: New multidisciplinary major and bilingual major launched

NUS revamps Chinese Studies: New multidisciplinary major and bilingual major launched

• Former Chinese Studies and Chinese Language majors merge into new multidisciplinary Chinese Languages and Cultures major
• New Chinese Studies (Bilingual) major also introduced to meet diverse student needs

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The National University of Singapore (NUS) is revamping its undergraduate Chinese Studies offerings to make them more inclusive and multidisciplinary, starting from Academic Year 2026/2027.

Students will be able to choose between two new majors offered at the Department of Chinese Studiesat the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. The first is a Chinese Languages and Cultures major that combines the two previous areas of study - Chinese Studies and Chinese Language - into a single programme while retaining Mandarin as the medium of instruction. The second is a Chinese Studies (Bilingual) major that is tailored for students of varying language proficiencies and broadens access to Chinese literature and culture.

The new programmes aim to equip students with a well-rounded understanding of Chinese language, literature, history and culture, while preparing them for careers in fields and sectors that value both cultural knowledge and high language proficiency.

Developing versatile graduates in Chinese language and culture

Since the 1980s, the Department of Chinese Studies has offered two majors: Chinese Studies which developed skills and knowledge in Chinese literature, history, philosophy and culture, and Chinese Language focused on linguistic training such as writing systems, grammar, phonology and translation.

The two majors allow students to gain a deeper understanding of Chinese language and culture, as well as develop critical thinking and cross-cultural skills, and be better equipped to make meaningful contributions in their chosen fields.

Over the years, many students pursued both majors to gain a more holistic understanding of both Chinese culture and language and maximise their opportunities in careers requiring both disciplinary knowledge and high Chinese language proficiency.

Recognising the students' desire to combine the strength of the two majors, "the new Chinese Languages and Cultures major allows students to make connections across literature, history, philosophy, and linguistics in ways that were harder to achieve in separate tracks. Graduates will emerge as well-rounded, adaptable individuals, capable of critical thinking, cross-cultural understanding, and with a high level of Chinese language proficiency," said Professor Ong Chang Woei, Head of the Department of Chinese Studies.

New bilingual major cultivates interest and broadens participation

To meet the needs of students with varying levels of Chinese language proficiency and diverse learning backgrounds, the Department of Chinese Studies has also introduced a new Chinese Studies (Bilingual) major.

This programme adopts a new bilingual format. Students can complete most coursework either entirely in English or through a combination of English and Chinese. A compulsory course on Chinese communication, tailored to students' language levels, further strengthens their ability to express ideas and communicate effectively in Chinese.

By allowing students to engage with Chinese culture and ideas in a flexible format, the bilingual approach encourages deeper participation, fosters intellectual curiosity and supports students in developing both critical thinking and bilingual communication skills without worrying too much about their Chinese language competency.

Prof Ong added that, "This flexibility also opens up a wider range of opportunities for students to pursue advanced study, cross-cultural research and careers where an understanding of Chinese language and culture is valuable."