Chinese Language and Linguistics Concentration
Build language expertise and understand how it works
培养语言专长，并理解其运作机制
If you are interested in learning Chinese and want to understand how language works at a deeper level, this concentration brings both together. At the University at Buffalo, you will develop proficiency in Chinese while studying how language is structured, how meaning is created and how communication works across contexts.
This concentration is a strong fit if you want more than language fluency. You will learn how language is organized, how it is used and how it connects to culture and communication.
With this concentration, you will:
- Build proficiency in Chinese through progressive language study
- Understand how sound, grammar and meaning are structured
- Apply linguistic analysis to a specific language
- Strengthen your ability to communicate across cultures
- Develop analytical and writing skills that apply across fields
What makes this program different
Most language programs focus on speaking and writing. This program also helps you understand the systems behind language.
You will:
- Study how Chinese is structured and how it is used in different contexts
- Explore how meaning shifts across situations and cultures
- Examine how language reflects identity and social interaction
- Use linguistic tools to better understand communication
This combination of language study and analysis gives you a broader and more flexible skill set.
You will build both foundational knowledge and applied skills in linguistics and language study.
You will:
- Demonstrate understanding of phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics and pragmatics
- Apply analytical methods to examine linguistic data
- Analyze sound systems and produce and transcribe speech
- Study word and sentence structure using established frameworks
- Examine how meaning is created and interpreted
- Apply linguistic tools to analyze patterns in a specific language
Tools for learning Chinese
UB students have access to tools that support reading, writing and working with Chinese characters. NJStar Chinese Communicator allows you to read and write Chinese characters in common applications like web browsers, email and word processors.
This concentration combines core linguistics courses with Chinese language study.
Core linguistics courses
You will complete foundational courses such as:
- Introduction to linguistic analysis
- Sound systems
- Grammar and structure
Chinese language progression
You will take a sequence of Chinese courses based on your placement level, from introductory through advanced study.
Advanced coursework and capstone
You will:
- Take upper-level electives in both linguistics and Chinese
- Complete a senior capstone course
- Apply your knowledge in a focused project or advanced coursework
A path that adjusts to your experience
Your starting point depends on your background in Chinese.
- Students with no prior experience begin with introductory courses
- Heritage speakers or advanced learners may place into higher levels
- Total credits vary based on placement and demonstrated proficiency
This structure allows you to progress at the right level and build meaningful skills over time.
Chinese proficiency and placement
If you have prior experience with Chinese, placement testing can help determine the right starting level and whether you may waive introductory coursework. Testing is offered during the first two weeks of the semester.
Combining language study with linguistic analysis prepares you for a range of paths that involve communication, culture and critical thinking.
Graduates may pursue roles in:
- Education and language instruction
- International and cross-cultural work
- Writing, editing and communication
- Public service, policy or nonprofit work
- Business or organizations working across global contexts
Some students continue into graduate study in linguistics, education or related fields.
If you want to build strong language skills and understand how language works across cultures, this concentration offers a focused and flexible path.
For students who are interested in learning more about Chinese culture, please visit the Asian Studies Program.