Undergraduate | 2026

Bachelor of Arts majoring in Chinese Studies

Start date

February

Campus

Adelaide City, Magill

Duration

3 year(s) full-time

Mode

Hybrid

Program code

BARTS

Study as

Full time or part time

Indicative fees

Commonwealth Supported

Prerequisite

None

Assumed knowledge

None

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible for admission, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate that they fulfill any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission:

Recent secondary education (Year 12)

Completion of a secondary education qualification equivalent to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).

Vocational Education and Training (VET)

Completion of an award from a registered training organisation (RTO) at Certificate IV (AQF level 4) or higher.

Higher education study

Successful completion of at least 6 months full-time study (or equivalent part-time) of an undergraduate certificate (AQF level 5) or higher qualification at an Australian higher education institution.

Overseas qualifications considered by Adelaide University as equivalent to the above Australian qualifications may be accepted.

Work and life experience

Completion of an Adelaide University approved enabling, pathway or bridging program; OR
Achieved a pass result in the Skills for Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT); OR
Passed an Adelaide University online literacy and numeracy test AND have relevant work experience; OR
Qualify for special entry

Note:

Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025, to commence study in 2026.

Please note that entry requirements for this degree are provisional and subject to change.

Why Bachelor of Arts?

Want to set yourself up for international achievement?

China is the world's second-largest economy and a crucial partner in Australia’s economic success. Nearly 20% of our global population speaks their official language. In a fast-changing world, mastering Mandarin will only open doors.

Immerse yourself in Chinese history, culture, religion and philosophy. Feel confident in international conversations. Embrace your role as a global citizen.

Many employers are seeking professionals who can put their best foot forward in a Chinese context. Set yourself apart as a global communicator, with invaluable intercultural and language skills. You’ll be an asset in international companies and a bridge between cultures.

Overview

Our Bachelor of Arts is flexible and future-focused, designed to build creative thinking and get you career-ready.

The Chinese Studies major explores the language, culture, history and socio-economic issues of China. You’ll study important questions like: What is Chinese business etiquette? How is socialism practised in modern China? What impact is AI having on its industries?

Learn to speak Mandarin and communicate confidently in Chinese cultural, societal and business contexts. Investigate the country’s pivotal role within and beyond Asia. Engage with cutting-edge research through guest lectures, seminars and partnerships with leading Chinese universities. Enhance your professional profile with experiential learning opportunities, including study abroad programs and internships. Participate in research projects, both solo and collaboratively. Gain firsthand experience of China's global influence and graduate ready for complex careers in international business, trade, diplomacy, communication and technology.

What you'll learn

Our Bachelor of Arts maximises choice and flexibility. It is future-facing, designed to help you meet the complex challenges of tomorrow. Sharpen key skills in writing, communication, analysis and debate, learning to think creatively and come up with out-of-the-box solutions. Connect with the wider community and industry, including through a hands-on internship. Identify and pursue your personal career goals, engaging in valuable self-reflection.

The Chinese Studies major offers three streams:

Beginners: For those new to Chinese or with some school experience.
Continuers: For those with high grades in previous Chinese study.
Background Speakers: For native or near-native speakers.

Within your stream, you’ll explore Chinese culture – from Confucianism and Tai Chi to C-pop and TikTok. You’ll take tailored courses, including:

Chinese IA and IB
Chinese IIA and IIB
Chinese IIIA and IIIB
Asia: cultures and identities
China today: ideology, party and society
Ten things you should know about China
Asia beyond climate change.

You’ll gain expertise in modern standard Chinese (Mandarin), covering everything from basic grammar, vocabulary and conversational skills to sophisticated reading, writing and translation.

You can also bolster your professional toolkit by taking another major in a different discipline area.

Majors

The Bachelor of Arts is also available with majors in the following:

Aboriginal Studies
Art History and Visual Culture
Anthropology
Archaeology and Classical Studies
Cultural Studies
Creative Writing
English Literature
Environmental Management
French Studies
Gender and Sexuality Studies
Geography
German Studies
History
International Development
International Security
Italian Studies
Japanese Studies
Philosophy
Politics
Population and Migration Studies
Screen Studies
Sociology
Spanish Studies.

What courses you'll study

You're required to complete 144 units to complete your degree, across a mix of core courses, elective and work integrated learning. A list of indicative courses is provided below.

Complete 24 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
UG Common Core 1	AUXX1000	6
UG Common Core 2	AUXX2000	6
UG Common Core 3	AUXX3000	6
Professional Pathways and Destinations	LAWS1015	6

Complete 6 units for ALL of the following:

Course name		Course code	Units
	Internship or Project	CREA3026	6

Complete 18 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Elective 1	AUXX1011	6
Elective 2	AUXX1012	6
Elective 3	AUXX1013	6

Complete exactly 48 units from the following:

	Course code	Units
Chinese IA	LANG1101	6
Chinese IB	LANG1102	6
Chinese IIA	LANG1103	6
Chinese IIB	LANG1104	6
Asia: Culture and Identities	LANG2100	6
Chinese IIIA	LANG2101	6
Chinese IIIB	LANG2102	6
China Today: Ideology, Party & Society	LANG2103	6
Ten Things You Should Know About China	LANG2104	6
Asia Beyond Climate Change	POLI3011	6

Complete exactly 48 units from the following:

	Course code	Units
Asia and the World	LANG1002	6
Introduction to Asian Cultures	LANG1003	6
Chinese IIA	LANG1103	6
Chinese IIB	LANG1104	6
Asia: Culture and Identities	LANG2100	6
Chinese IIIA	LANG2101	6
Chinese IIIB	LANG2102	6
China Today: Ideology, Party & Society	LANG2103	6
Ten Things You Should Know About China	LANG2104	6
Translation for Chinese Speakers: Chinese-English	LANG2107	6
English-Chinese Translation for Chinese Speakers	LANG2108	6
Asia Beyond Climate Change	POLI3011	6

Complete exactly 48 units from the following:

	Course code	Units
Asia and the World	LANG1002	6
Introduction to Asian Cultures	LANG1003	6
Asia: Culture and Identities	LANG2100	6
China Today: Ideology, Party & Society	LANG2103	6
Ten Things You Should Know About China	LANG2104	6
Translation for Chinese Speakers: Chinese-English	LANG2107	6
English-Chinese Translation for Chinese Speakers	LANG2108	6
Understanding Chinese for Chinese Speakers	LANG3103	6
Issues in Chinese Culture for Chinese Speakers	LANG3104	6
Asia Beyond Climate Change	POLI3011	6

Complete one Major from the following:

	Course code	Units
Aboriginal Studies	ABORBARTS	48
Anthropology	ANTHBARTS	48
Archaeology and Classical Studies	ARCYBARTS	48
Art History and Visual Culture	ARTHBARTS	48
Creative Writing	CREWBARTS	48
English Literature	ENGLBARTS	48
Environmental Management	ENVMBARTS	48
French Studies	FRENBARTS	48
Geography	GEOGBARTS	48
German Studies	GERMBARTS	48
Cultural Studies	CULTBARTS	48
Gender and Sexuality Studies	GENDBARTS	48
History	HISTBARTS	48
International Development	INTDBARTS	48
International Security	INTSBARTS	48
Italian Studies	ITALBARTS	48
Japanese Studies	JAPNBARTS	48
Linguistics and Applied Linguistics	LINGBARTS	48
Philosophy	PHILBARTS	48
Politics	POLIBARTS	48
Population and Migration Studies	POPUBARTS	48
Screen Studies	SCRNBARTS	48
Sociology	SOCIBARTS	48
Spanish Studies	SPANBARTS	48

Career outcomes

The cross-cultural skills you learn at Adelaide University will set you up for dynamic future careers. You could lead cultural strategies at a global tech firm. You might be a policy advisor at a major NGO, driving sustainable international relations. Perhaps you’ll direct a cultural exchange program, connecting Australasian artists and thinkers.

You could also be a:

Interpreter
Cultural liaison
Communications consultant
Public servant
Immigration specialist
Language educator
PR specialist
Tourism consultant
Cultural event coordinator
Legal assistant
Market research analyst
Foreign service officer
Import/export coordinator.

Adelaide University graduates have secured prestigious positions at DFAT, Department of Immigration, Border Force, Australian Signals Directorate, Austrade, the Lowy Institute and more.

Industry trends

As China continues to assert its role as a global economic powerhouse (Asia Society, 2024), the demand for experts in Chinese culture and language will only grow. Professionals with these skills can tap into opportunities in multinational companies, where understanding China's unique business practices and etiquette is crucial for successful international collaborations. Being adept in Chinese language and customs not only lends itself to cross-cultural business communication but also strategically positions you in an increasingly globalised marketplace.

How to apply

Find your program

Discover the programs and explore the opportunities.

Explore our programs

Check the requirements

Look out for any prerequisite or assumed knowledge courses. Some degrees may have additional entry requirements.

Consider your preferences

To prepare for your future and to maximise your success consider adding additional preferences.

How to apply

Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025, to commence study in 2026.

Please note that entry requirements for this degree are provisional and subject to change.

If you want to start your studies earlier, consider applying to the University of Adelaide or UniSA now, and continue onto Adelaide University in 2026. Register your interest to stay informed.

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

From August 2025 you can apply as a domestic student for entry to Adelaide University in 2026.
Applications for 2026 will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs. A direct application process will be available for 100% online degrees at a later date. In the meantime, you could start your degree at UniSA or the University of Adelaide and continue at Adelaide University.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university.

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus.

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

Academic learning support, including after-hours support provided via Studiosity through live online chat assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities.
Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner (GP) to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, visa and work rights and academic policies and procedures.
An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission.

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

February for Semester 1  
July for Semester 2.

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view our Academic calendar. 

View all FAQs

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.

Student services

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:

Career advice and mentoring services
Personal counselling
LGBTQIA+ support
Academic support
Fees and finance help
Security services
Accommodation services
Common rooms
Prayer rooms.

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

Study hours

Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include:

Case studies
Essays and assignments
Examinations
Group projects
Internships and placements
Practicals
Presentations
Reports and project documentations
Research projects
Workplace and classroom contributions.

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Bachelor of Arts majoring in Chinese Studies