Chinese Studies BA
School of East Asian Studies
You are viewing this course for 2021-22 entry. 2022-23 entry is also available.
Key details
- A Levels ABB
Other entry requirements - UCAS code T110
- 4 years / Full-time
- September start
- Find out the course fee
- Foreign language study
- Study abroad
Course description
Chinese Studies is a balanced course that develops both your language skills and your understanding of how China works. The language teaching is intensive but we teach Chinese from scratch, so you don't need previous experience.
The course gives you special insights into China's rapidly developing economy, its growing political influence and rich culture. Your study will extend to Taiwan, and you'll develop a critical appreciation of a range of contemporary issues.
You'll spend your third year at the University of Nanjing, one of China's leading universities, where you'll study more advanced material.
In your final year, back in Sheffield you will refine your skills in speaking, writing and deepen your understanding of China through specialist research modules.
Modules
The modules listed below are examples from the last academic year. There may be some changes before you start your course. For the very latest module information, check with the department directly.
Choose a year to see modules for a level of study:
UCAS code: T110
Years: 2021
In your first year you will begin your language learning by focusing on reading, writing, listening and speaking, working with qualified native-speaker language teachers, using specially designed course material.
Through our Exploring East Asia module you will be provided with essential knowledge of the East Asia region, its history, politics, geography and culture. This will give you a greater understanding of China, what shaped it and how it may develop in the future.
Core modules:
- Exploring East Asia
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This module introduces students to the study of modern East Asia. Beginning by encouraging consideration of what the subject of East Asian Studies is, it then introduces the following key topics: East Asian Geography and Environment, History, Culture and Media, Economics and Business, and Political Relations. In parallel with this content, the module also introduces core academic skills as follows: independent, lecture and seminar study; reflective practice; critical information, digital and visual literacy; evidence and argument in academic writing, and appropriate examination techniques. These two elements provide a firm foundation of knowledge and abilities for higher level study.
20 credits - Chinese Language 1A
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This module is focusing on receptive activities and written productive activities in Chinese language. It aims to enable students to acquire basic competence in grammar, reading, writing and translation both from and into Chinese skills. Every week carefully designed grammar structures and vocabulary will be introduced so that students will be able to do something practical in writing. Chinese characters and sentences are introduced from the earliest stages.
20 credits - Chinese Language 1B
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This module is focusing on interactive activities in Chinese. It aims to enable students to acquire basic competence in speaking and listening skills. Every week carefully designed grammar structures and vocabulary will be introduced so that students will be able to communicate in Chinese through a variety of activities.
10 credits - Chinese Language 2A
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This module is focusing on receptive activities and written productive activities in Chinese language. It aims to enable students to acquire basic competence in grammar, reading, writing and translation both from and into Chinese skills. Every week carefully designed grammar structures and vocabulary will be introduced so that students will be able to do something practical in writing Chinese characters and sentences are introduced from the earliest stages.
20 credits - Chinese Language 2B
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This module is focusing on interactive activities in Chinese. It aims to enable students to acquire basic competence in speaking and listening skills. Every week carefully designed grammar structures and vocabulary will be introduced so that students will be able to communicate in Chinese through a variety of activities.
10 credits
Approved modules:
You will take one of the following Understanding China modules. Each module has a humanities or social sciences focus and will look at a core text, which has played a significant role in developing an intricate, understanding of China. The content of these modules change regularly to ensure they are topical and make the best use of our staff expertise.
- Understanding China 1
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This module explores what it means to study China at university level, and considers how `area studies' research on China fits within a discipline such as history, political science, or cultural studies. We will work on a combination of new and established research to explore one core topic - in this year, the history of twentieth-century Shanghai as seen from the grassroots. We will consider how histories of China are built, how researchers use primary evidence in text and/or images to understand social change; how to navigate key debates in a field and evaluate competing arguments. You will finish this module with a deep understanding of our core topic and research, critical and writing skills that you can apply and develop in further study.
20 credits - Understanding China 2
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This module explores what it means to study China at university level, and considers how ‘area studies’ research on China fits within a discipline such as development, migration, and cultural studies.
20 credits
We will work on a combination of new and established research to explore core topics in contemporary China, and consider how Chinese society has changed, how researchers use different conceptual frameworks and types of primary evidence to understand change and its wider impact; how to use the different types of work published in the field and evaluate competing arguments in key debates. You will finish this module with a deep understanding of our core topic and research, critical and writing skills that you can apply and develop in further study.
Guided modules
You will take 20 credits from the following East Asian Studies modules and a list of guided modules available from departments across the university.
- Understanding Japan 1
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This module explores what it means to study Japan at university level, and considers how `area studies' research on Japan fits within a discipline such as political science, international relations or economics. We will work on a combination of new and established research to explore one core topic. We will consider how politics has been researched, how researchers use conceptual frameworks and types primary evidence to understand Japanese practice; how to navigate key debates in a field and evaluate competing arguments. You will finish this module with a deep understanding of our core topic and research, critical and writing skills that you can apply and develop in further study.
20 credits - Understanding Korea 1
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This module explores what it means to study Korea at university level, and considers how `area studies' research on Korea fits within a discipline such as history or cultural studies. We will work on a combination of new and established research to explore one core topic in depth. We will consider how research on Korea has changed over time, how researchers use primary evidence in text and/or images to understand change and practice; how to navigate key debates in a field and evaluate competing arguments. You will finish this module with a deep understanding of our core topic and research, critical and writing skills that you can apply and develop in further study.
20 credits - Understanding Japan 2
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This module explores what it means to study Japan at university level, and considers how `area studies' research on Japan fits within a discipline such as history or cultural studies. We will work on a combination of new and established research to explore one core topic. We will consider how studies of Japan are built, how researchers use primary evidence in text and/or images to understand change; how to navigate key debates in a field and evaluate competing arguments. You will finish this module with a deep understanding of our core topic and research, critical and writing skills that you can apply and develop in further study.
20 credits - Understanding Korea 2
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This module explores what it means to study Korea at university level, and considers how ‘area studies’ research on Korea fits within a discipline such as history or cultural studies. We will work on a combination of new and established research to explore one core topic in depth. We will consider how research on colonial Korea has changed over time, how researchers use primary evidence in text and/or images to understand change and practice; how to navigate key debates in a field and evaluate competing arguments. You will finish this module with a deep understanding of our core topic and research, critical and writing skills that you can apply and develop in further study.
20 credits
At level 2 you will develop your understanding of China and begin to explore disciplines such as history, politics or culture in more detail. Your modules will help you develop disciple specific skills which may include
- Understanding economic and business models
- Analysing policy and writing policy briefs
- Critiquing visual art such as film
- Forming and debating a coherent argument
In your language classes you will build on what you have learnt in your first year and focus on language which will help you on your year abroad.
Core modules:
- Chinese Language 3A (Level 2)
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This module focuses on receptive activities and written productive activities in the Chinese language at the post-beginning to lower-intermediate level. It acts as a transition between the teacher-centred learning required for the acquisition of elementary and intermediate language skills, and the autonomous and self-directed learning required at more advanced levels. More grammar points are introduced and consolidated. Translation and functional reading skills are extended, with longer and more complicated texts.
20 credits - Chinese Language 3B (Level 2)
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This module is focusing on oral and aural activities in Chinese language at at the post-beginning to lower-intermediate level. Every week students are made aware of and given the opportunity to practise spoken applications of specific themes, which is shared with the grammar and writing components.
10 credits - Chinese Language 4A (Level 2)
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This module focuses on receptive activities and written productive activities in Chinese language at lower intermediate level consolidating the knowledge learned from semester 1. This module acts as a transition between the teacher-centred learning required for the acquisition of basic and intermediate language skills, and the autonomous and self-directed learning required at more advanced levels. Previous grammar knowledge will be consolidated and more advanced grammar points will be introduced. Translation and functional reading skills are extended, with longer and more complicated texts.
20 credits - Chinese Language 4B (Level 2)
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This module is focusing on oral and aural activities in Chinese language at lower intermediate level consolidating the knowledge learned from semester 1. Every week students are made aware of and given the opportunity to practise spoken applications of given themes, which is shared with the grammar and writing components.
10 credits
Approved modules:
You will choose one of the following modules
- Mass Culture and Digital Society in East Asia
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This module takes a transcultural approach to the study of mass culture and digital society in East Asia, tracing the adoption, adaptation, and innovation of a variety of media over the twentieth and twenty-first century. We will examine how mass culture, from radio and literature to art, entertainment and social media have continuously negotiated the concept of “national” identity across East Asia.
20 credits - Gender and Identities in East Asia
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This module offers an overview of the study of gender and its connection to social, cultural, political and economic discourses across East Asia. Covering key issues related to the structures and dynamics of gender in East Asia, we learn to situate these dynamics in their historical and cultural context using case studies drawn from across the region.
20 credits
Approved modules:
You will also choose one of the following modules
- Chinese Business and Management
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The objective of this module is to provide students an understanding of China's economic reform and open door policies, and the new free market orientation. While module content is academic rather than practical, this unit is designed to acquaint students with Chinese business environment and practice, and to inform them of issues and problems encountered by international businesses operating in China or doing business with the Chinese. Emphasis is on the Chinese business culture, the state-owned enterprise reform, development of the private sector and management issues of Chinese family firms, foreign direct investment and operating foreign businesses in China, human resource management, Chinese consumer behaviour, and the financial markets. An understanding of these topics is highly relevant to companies targeting the China market and essential background for graduates seeking a career in Far Eastern Business. Students are thus encouraged to develop business-related skills.
20 credits - East Asian Cinema
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We will examine key film directors, cinematic movements and industry developments since 1945 from Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Mainland China. This module will introduce you to some of the key cinematic theoretical frameworks such as national and global cinemas, gender, spectatorship and will examine the ways in which selected East Asian films and directors interact with the history and culture of their respective nations. This module is designed to encourage students to critically examine both the text (the films themselves) and the context (the national environment, film festival circuit, film finance) that surrounds any film work.
20 credits - Urbanisation in China
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More than half of the world’s population lives in urban areas, and the rate of urbanisation is rising quickly. Urbanisation in China has been an important part of this global development. In the past three decades China has witnessed the largest rural-to-urban migration in human history. The share of urban population increased dramatically from 18% in 1978 to 51% in 2011. This module provides an overview of the rapid urbanisation in the world’s most populated country, including its driving forces and social, economic, spatial and environmental consequences. It also compares and contrasts China’s urbanisation experience with that in other developing countries.
20 credits - Modern Chinese History: Beyond Revolution
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This module will examine key themes in the histories of China's short twentieth century, and the ways in which new approaches in scholarship have influenced understanding of China's recent past. While the structure of the module is loosely chronological, our emphasis is not on the detail of events but on critical analysis of broad social and political changes. You will explore these developments through individual and group work on new historical scholarship on China and a range of primary textual and visual sources, and develop critical, research and writing skills and an understanding of how Chinese histories are built.
20 credits - Contemporary Chinese Society and Culture
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This module introduces students to different ways of thinking about Chinese society and culture. In particular, we focus on sociological, anthropological and geographical approaches to contemporary Chinese society and culture, showing why and how China is important to current theoretical debates in these disciplines.
20 credits - Population and Environment in China
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This module examines the interdependent relationship between population and environment in China. These are vitally important questions, in China and globally, that have attracted research by scholars of contemporary China, and in the wider academic disciplines of human geography and development studies. Through your work in lectures and seminars, you will gain a deep understanding of China’s population and environment and its relation to social and economic change and to local and national institutions; and you will develop transferable skills of research, writing and critical analysis.
20 credits
Guided modules
You will take 20 credits from the following East Asian Studies modules and a list of guided modules available from departments across the university.
- Contemporary Japanese Society
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This module explores key factors shaping contemporary Japanese society, while developing core disciplinary skills in the contemporary social sciences - anthropology, sociology, geography and cultural studies. Our particular focus will be on the last twenty years as post-Bubble Japan has entered a period of economic decline, prompting a series of debates about the effects of this change on society. Students will develop a strong understanding of these social changes and the social scientific debates regarding them, and the methods and practices used to conduct contemporary social scientific research in Japan today.
20 credits - Understanding Contemporary North Korea
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This module is interdisciplinary in nature, but draws largely from the disciplines of anthropology and history to examine broad themes including media framing; colonialism and post-colonialism in Northeast Asia; charismatic leadership; ethnic nationalism and identity; political violence; and migration and memory. The course covers the historic trajectory of twentieth century Northeast Asia, from the early 1900s to the present. Students will develop core skills in critically analysing media reports, `reading' propaganda, and researching and presenting ideas in written and oral form. This module will be delivered through weekly lectures, seminars and independent study.
20 credits - Environment and Development of the Japanese Islands
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This module takes geographical, ecological, socio-cultural and political-economic perspectives in charting the emergence of Japan as the world’s first non-Western developed country. Beginning with Japan’s geological formation in pre-history and ending with a speculative enquiry into the state of Japan in 2100, the module assesses the human and ecological consequences of Japan’s development within the country’s Asian, Pacific, and global contexts.
20 credits - History of Korean Popular Music
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This module examines the social history of (South) Korea from the 1930s to the dawn of the millennium through the lens of popular music. The module starts with songs on gramophone records made during the Japanese colonial period and ends with Psy’s ‘Gangnam Style,’ which achieved global popularity while satirising urban lifestyle in Seoul. Each week, students and the module lead perform a close analysis of the selected song(s), informed by relevant socio-historical contexts such as Japanese colonialism, national division, the Cold War, urban migration, state censorship, democratisation, and globalization. Secondarily, the module introduces students to issues that are relevant to the study of popular music in any national or transnational context.
20 credits - Postwar Japanese Politics
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This module will examine postwar Japanese politics, economy and international relations with a focus on the change and continuity of political organizations and policy-making processes. The module is designed to equip students with analytical skills based on a framework generally applicable to political science so that they will be able to examine political phenomena in general, and particularly in relation to Japan, from a range of theoretical perspectives. Students will work together in a group presentation based on a case study and take a formal exam that will assess their ability to conduct critical analysis and make a coherent argument.
20 credits - Modern Japanese History
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This module will explore key themes in the modern history of Japan from the mid-nineteenth to the late twentieth century, while developing core skills in reading primary sources and historical analysis. Broad themes include identity and nation-building, social and economic change, war and its practical and cultural legacies. Key sub-disciplinary approaches will be based in social and cultural history, with some excursions into other historiographical approaches. It will be delivered through weekly lectures, and seminars structured around developing primary source analysis skills and relating these to appropriate secondary literature.
20 credits - Contemporary Korean Society
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Since the end of World War II, the two Koreas have undergone rapid modernisation and radical social transformations that have created a number of opportunities and challenges. Through the disciplines of anthropology, history, and political science this module examines major social, political, and cultural issues in contemporary Korea, including the unfinished Korean War, ideological violence and reunification, migration and modernity, kinship and relations to the dead, and Korea’s place in the global community. Classes are in the format of a lecture, followed by a series of seminars during which students will engage with ethnographies to discuss the experiences of one of East Asia’s most dynamic nations; in other weeks there will be film screenings and guest lectures.
20 credits - Experiencing 'Japan' through Literary Texts
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This module enables students to understand the key debates and issues in Japanese culture and society as related in literature, from pre-modern to contemporary times. Taking a chronological and thematic perspective, the module engages with critical approaches to literature and its interpretation, and through these encourages students to develop and acquire critical thinking about concepts of Japan and Japaneseness.
20 credits
Your third year will be spend studying in China at Nanjing University where you will take intensive Chinese language classes and be immersed in Chinese culture and society.
Core module:
- China Year Abroad
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This year abroad at Nanjing University is designed to equip students with more advanced language skills, as well as to immerse them in Chinese culture, enabling them to take part in a range of structured and informal learning experiences to develop their familiarity with the Chinese social, cultural and physical environments. On completion of the module they will have acquired facility in operating with confidence with a Chinese language environment, possessing a vocabulary of around 3000 characters. Both of these elements are essential for progression to Level 3.
120 credits
Where extenuating circumstances prevent a cohort, or a large portion of a cohort, from completing a complete academic year abroad, the School of East Asian Studies will provide alternative arrangements for students to meet the language learning outcomes.
In your final year you will focus on developing your research skills thought specially designed research focused modules. The content of these modules change regularly to ensure they are topical and make the best use of our staff expertise
In your language classes you will be introduced to advanced topics such as translation, interpretation and workplace language skills such as CV writing and presenting.
Core modules:
- Researching China 1
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By this stage students should have acquired the ability to read newspapers and general articles in Chinese. This module is designed to enhance ability to conduct original research on the basis of academic source materials.
20 credits - Chinese Language 5
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This module is divided into four sections, each one focussing on a key linguistic skill which is demanded of adult foreign users of the language. These skills are: interpreting/translating between Chinese and English; summarisation of information bearing texts; writing in Chinese, with a focus on short reports and the interpretation of data; and speaking, with a focus on group and individual presentations. Group work, with students determining their own materials for study, is a key element of the module, enabling students to develop as independent learners.
20 credits - Chinese Language 6
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This module builds on skills acquired in Chinese Language 5. It is divided into four sections, each one focussing on a key linguistic skill which is demanded of adult foreign users of the language. These skills are: interpreting between Chinese and English; summarisation of information bearing texts; writing in Chinese ¿ with a focus on short reports and the interpretation of data; and speaking, with a focus on group and individual presentations. Group work, with students determining their own materials for study, is a key element of the module, enabling students to develop as independent learners.
20 credits - East Asian Dissertation
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The East Asian dissertation requires that students produce an extended and focused study of a subject of their own choice, within the scope of their degree programme, and allows students to refine and extend their independent research, analytical and writing skills. The unit is delivered through a combination of group meetings in lecture or seminar format and through individual supervision.
40 credits
Guided modules
You will take 20 credits of guided modules. This could be the following East Asian Studies module or you can chose from a list of guided modules available from departments across the university.
- China Research Project 1
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By this stage students should have acquired the ability to read newspapers and general articles in Chinese. This module is designed to enhance ability to conduct original research on the basis of academic source materials.
20 credits
The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it's up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research; funding changes; professional accreditation requirements; student or employer feedback; outcomes of reviews; and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we'll consult and inform students in good time and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption. We are no longer offering unrestricted module choice. If your course included unrestricted modules, your department will provide a list of modules from their own and other subject areas that you can choose from.
Learning and assessment
Learning
You will undertake intensive Chinese language training in small group classes with native speaking tutors and making use of specially designed learning materials.
To complement your language learning and ensure you gain a comprehensive understanding of the country, you will also learn about Chinese culture and society through, what we call, studies modules. These modules are taught via lectures, seminars and workshops.
You will get the chance to learn about Chinese politics, history, media and popular culture among other topics that complement the current expertise and research interests of our staff.
The School of East Asian Studies has over 50 years’ experience of researching contemporary East Asia and pioneering new methods for teaching East Asian Languages.
SEAS staff, many of whom are fluent in at least one East Asian language, are internationally-renowned specialists in East Asia, and bring their expertise in various fields such as history, culture and politics, to the wide range of courses on offer at SEAS.
Right from the start, you'll be working with expert researchers and native speakers, who will help you to reach your potential
Assessment
We use a range of assessment methods during your course. In the language programme you will be given regular homework assignments and take exams at the end of each semester. You will be assessed on the core skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing.
Our assessment methods vary across our studies modules and could include taking exams, developing a portfolio, writing essays, taking part in group projects and presentations.
Programme specification
This tells you the aims and learning outcomes of this course and how these will be achieved and assessed.
Entry requirements
With Access Sheffield, you could qualify for additional consideration or an alternative offer - find out if you're eligible
The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
ABB
The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
BBB
A Levels + additional qualifications | BBB + B in a relevant EPQ BBB + B in a relevant EPQ
International Baccalaureate | 33 32
BTEC | DDD in a relevant subject DDM in a relevant subject
Scottish Highers | AAABB AABBB
Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels | B + AB B + BB
Access to HE Diploma | 60 credits overall with Distinctions in 30 Level 3 credits and Merits in 15 Level 3 credits 60 credits overall with Distinctions in 24 Level 3 credits and Merits in 21 Level 3 credits
Mature students - explore other routes for mature students
You must demonstrate that your English is good enough for you to successfully complete your course. For this course we require: GCSE English Language at grade C/4; IELTS grade of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component; or an alternative acceptable English language qualification
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No prior knowledge of Chinese required (up to A Level Chinese acceptable)
We also accept a range of other UK qualifications and other EU/international qualifications.
If you have any questions about entry requirements, please contact the department.
School of East Asian Studies
Our courses are designed to immerse you in the languages and cultures of East Asian countries. You will be taught by native speakers in Chinese, Japanese and Korean in regular small group classes using custom made course material. To enhance your learning, we also have a modern virtual language lab, which enables you to learn using visual and audio aids.
Our courses are based on world-leading research and taught by experts whose work influences policy and informs public debate. Most of our staff publish in their specialist field and many of them have written books for major publishers such as Oxford University Press, Routledge and Macmillan.
The School of East Asian Studies is located in the Jessop West building, right in the heart of campus and close to the Sheffield University tram stop. You will visit the department to meet with your tutors and gain any support you need. Your lectures, seminars and language classes will take place in various locations across the University of Sheffield campus.
Facilities
To enhance your learning, the School of East Asian Studies has a modern virtual language lab, which enables you to learn using visual and audio aids.
School of East Asian StudiesWhy choose Sheffield?
The University of Sheffield
A Top 100 university 2021
QS World University Rankings
Top 10% of all UK universities
Research Excellence Framework 2014
No 1 Students' Union in the UK
Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2019, 2018, 2017
School of East Asian Studies
National Student Survey 2020
Graduate careers
School of East Asian Studies
Studying China, Japan or Korea prepares you for a career in the world's most dynamic region. There are also many opportunities across Europe for people with skills in Asian languages and cultures.
Our graduates work in government and diplomacy, media and the arts, non-government organisations and international business - in professions as diverse as management consultancy, accountancy, marketing, research, language teaching and translation.
Year abroad
As part of this degree you'll spend a year studying at Nanjing University in China, one of the highest-ranked universities in the country.
On your year abroad you'll continue to take intensive courses in Chinese language, building on the skills you'll learn during your time at Sheffield. Like in Sheffield, you'll also have the opportunity to learn about the culture, politics, and history of China through optional modules.
Fees and funding
Fees
Additional costs
The annual fee for your course includes a number of items in addition to your tuition. If an item or activity is classed as a compulsory element for your course, it will normally be included in your tuition fee. There are also other costs which you may need to consider.
Funding your study
Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for a bursary, scholarship or loan to help fund your study and enhance your learning experience.
Use our Student Funding Calculator to work out what you’re eligible for.
Visit us
University open days
There are four open days every year, usually in June, July, September and October. You can talk to staff and students, tour the campus and see inside the accommodation.
Taster days
At various times in the year we run online taster sessions to help Year 12 students experience what it is like to study at the University of Sheffield.
Applicant days
If you've received an offer to study with us, we'll invite you to one of our applicant days, which take place between November and April. These applicant days have a strong department focus and give you the chance to really explore student life here, even if you've visited us before.
Campus tours
Campus tours run regularly throughout the year, at 1pm every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
Apply for this course
Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.
How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:
www.ucas.com
Contact us
Telephone: +44 114 222 8400
Email: eastasianstudies-admissions@sheffield.ac.uk
The awarding body for this course is the University of Sheffield.
Recognition of professional qualifications: from 1 January 2021, in order to have any UK professional qualifications recognised for work in an EU country across a number of regulated and other professions you need to apply to the host country for recognition. Read information from the UK government and the EU Regulated Professions Database.