The Masters in Chinese Studies offers an introduction to the fascinating and fast-changing dimensions of China today. It provides a broad grounding in Chinese society, economy, politics and culture. There is the flexibility to combine cultural and political studies with introductory or more advanced modules in Mandarin.

Programme overview

• MSc: 12 months full-time; 24 months part-time

The programme is made up of two core courses and four optional courses taken over two ten-week blocks. In the final part of the programme you will write a dissertation and take an internship in China.

The core courses focus on contemporary China – its politics and society and role in the international economy. You can opt to do intensive language study and/or courses in business, international politics, research methods or an independent study module in an area of staff specialism.

Subjects covered include

• Chinese politics and society
• China's international politics
• China in the international economy
• The business environment in China
• Chinese language
• Internship in China
• Independent study module in selected subjects (such as Chinese art history)

Career prospects

This programme is ideal for anyone interested in pursuing a career involving China, whether in the business world, diplomatic service, international organisations, the arts and media or as preparation for further academic study through a PhD programme.

Academic entry requirements

Entry requirements for postgraduate taught programmes are a 2.1 Honours degree or equivalent qualification (for example, GPA 3.0 or above) in a relevant subject.

International students with academic qualifications below those required should contact our partner institution, Glasgow International College, who offer a range of foundation courses.

English language requirements

For applicants whose first language is not English, the University sets a minimum English Language proficiency level.

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic module (not General Training):

• overall score 6.5
• no sub-test less than 6.0
• or equivalent scores in another recognised qualification (see below)
   

Common equivalent English language qualifications:

• ibTOEFL: 92; no sub-test less than 20
• CAE (Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English): B minimum
• CPE (Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English): C minimum
• PTE Academic (Person Test of English, Academic test): 60; no sub-test less than 59

Pre-sessional courses
The University of Glasgow accepts evidence of the required language level from the Language Centre Pre-sessional courses. We also consider other BALEAP accredited pre-sessional courses:

• Language Centre, University of Glasgow
• BALEAP guide to accredited courses 

FAQs

Visa requirements and proof of English language level

It is a visa requirement to provide information on your level of English based on an internationally recognised and secure English language test. All test reports must be no more than 2 years old. A list of these can be found on the UK Border Agency website. If you have never taken one of these tests before, you can get an initial idea of your level by using the Common European Framework self-assessment grid which gives you a level for each skill (e.g. listening B1/writing B2 etc.) However, please note that this is not a secure English language test and it is not sufficient evidence of your level of English for visa requirements.

If you require a Tier 4 student visa, your qualification must be one of the secure English language tests accepted by UK Border Agency:

• UK Border Agency Tier 4 English Language requirements
• UKBA list of approved English language tests [pdf]

For further information about English language requirements, please contact the Recruitment and International Office: pgadmissions@glasgow.ac.uk

Apply now

For 2013-14

MSc