Bachelor of Arts in Chinese

Our students become fluent in the Chinese language, literary history and culture and find satisfying work as translators, interpreters, research analysts, global marketing specialists, intelligence analysts and Chinese instructors.

The BA in Chinese emphasizes knowledge and awareness of the Chinese language, including Chinese literary history and the cultural contexts in which particular works were written. Students gain critical language skills that can be applied across a range of careers, including the skills to address challenges, deficiencies and possible gains inherent in the process of translating from one language to another.

  • Learn to read modern and classical Chinese
  • Be able to speak and comprehend Mandarin
  • Explore critical approaches to the study of Chinese language and civilization

Competency in Chinese is a highly desirable skill in all fields, including commerce, foreign service, translation services, law, public administration, journalism, government and academia

The BA in Chinese can be combined with another language or other field of interest to broaden career opportunities

Hone your language skills through placement in one of CU Boulder’s many Education Abroad programs

Be successful.

Be prepared to meet the needs of our 21st-century society by applying your knowledge of Chinese in the workforce.

 
$57,800

Median salary of CU Boulder students majoring in Chinese 1–5 years after graduation

 

Translator, interpreter, research analyst, global marketing specialist, intelligence analyst and Chinese instructor are common job opportunities for graduates

 

Employment of interpreters and translators is projected to grow 19% from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations. Job growth reflects increasing globalization and a more diverse U.S. population, reports the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Academic Plan & Requirements

The BA in Chinese requires successful completion of 30 credit hours, of which at least 18 credit hours must be upper-division courses.

Additional degree options for students studying Chinese include:

  • Bachelor’s-accelerated master's: A combined bachelor's (BA) and master's (MA) degree is offered for highly motivated undergraduate students. The BA/MA program allows students to take advanced courses at an accelerated pace, engage in an independent research project and obtain both degrees in five years.

Community & Involvement

We offer students many opportunities to network with peers and faculty, further their studies, and get the most out of their undergraduate experience.

News & Stories

College of Arts & Sciences magazine cover