Chinese

University at Buffalo Department of Linguistics.

Explore Chinese language and culture at UB

布法罗大学中文项目简介

China boasts the world’s oldest continuous living civilization and a culture that has profoundly influenced its neighboring countries. Today, China is a major player on the global stage with a booming economy and significant political influence. Mandarin (Putonghua), the official language of China, is the second most spoken language in the world which is right after English.”

Why study Chinese?

Studying Chinese language opens way to the rich cultural heritage of philosophy, religion, art, literature and history of China. Studying Chinese also paves the way to different fields of study and career options. Whether you are pursuing a career in business, sciences, technology, humanities, etc., you will find your training in Chinese language is not only an item on your C.V., but also an essential tool to find data, communicate with your peers, or develop a key case study in your project.

Program offerings

The Chinese Program at the University at Buffalo offers comprehensive courses in Chinese language, linguistics, and culture. We provide two degree options to suit your academic and professional goals:

  • Linguistics BA – Chinese Language and Linguistics Concentration
  • Minor in Chinese

Course listings

Chinese Language Courses:

  • CHI 111: First-Year Chinese 1st Semester (6 credits)
  • CHI 112: First-Year Chinese 2nd Semester (3 credits)
  • CHI 114: First-Year Chinese Course for Heritage Learners (6 credits)
  • CHI 201: Second-Year Chinese 1st Semester (4 credits)
  • CHI 202: Second-Year Chinese 2nd Semester (4 credits)
  • CHI 204: Second-Year Chinese Course for Heritage Learners (4 credits)
  • CHI 301: Third-Year Chinese 1st Semester (3 credits)
  • CHI 302: Third-Year Chinese 2nd Semester (3 credits)
  • CHI 401: Fourth-Year Chinese 1st Semester (3 credits)
  • CHI 402: Fourth-Year Chinese 2nd Semester (3 credits)
  • CHI 539: Chinese Graduate Study (2-4 credits)

Chinese Content Courses (taught in English):

  • CHI 341: Classical Chinese 1st Semester (3 credits)
  • CHI 342: Classical Chinese 2nd Semester (3 credits)
  • CHI 380: Chinese Language and Culture (3 credits)
  • CHI 410/510: Introduction to Chinese Linguistics (3 credits)

Learn more and get involved

Embark on a journey that enriches your academic experience and prepares you for a future in our interconnected world. For degree requirements and more information about the program and minor, visit the Department of Linguistics.

For any questions about Chinese courses, placement exams or study abroad programs, please contact the Chinese Program Director Chuan Lin at clin97@buffalo.edu.

Interested students can also explore study abroad opportunities and gain valuable international experience by visiting Education Abroad.

Language placement exam

If you have learned Chinese before or have family members who speak Chinese at home, please take our placement exam before taking Chinese language courses. Visit the Language Placement Exam page for details.