Prepare for a Variety of International Careers with Chinese Studies

Bennett College Students in Front of Chinese Temple

Prepare for a Variety of International Careers With Chinese Studies

China is the most populated country in the entire world, being home to over 1.4 billion people. It also has the second-largest economy and is one of the largest trading partners of the United States, making it an important global power. In addition to China’s current position in world affairs, it is also one of the oldest regions of civilization, with a rich and complex history reaching back as far as 2100 BCE. 

All of this demonstrates how China has always played an important role in the world — and will continue to do so in the future. It also highlights Chinese Studies as an especially valuable and relevant area of study in school.

Importance and Benefits of Chinese Studies

Chinese Studies is an academic discipline that deals with the history, culture, language, politics, economy, and society of China. The discipline provides students with a broad and multifaceted understanding of China and its role in the world. Pursuing Chinese Studies can be an excellent choice for students who want to understand one of the world’s most influential countries and its culture, language, and politics.

Majoring in Chinese Studies equips students with critical linguistic skills and cultural competence, enabling them to function effectively in various roles across diplomacy, international business, education, and beyond. Furthermore, this major fosters analytical thinking and cross-cultural communication abilities, essential skills in a world where China’s impact spans continents, affecting global economics, politics, and environmental strategies. Thus, Chinese Studies is not only relevant but essential for anyone looking to engage seriously with the major forces shaping our world today.

Chinese Studies can also prepare students for a variety of international careers and give them an advantage over other candidates. For example, college graduates who can speak Mandarin often enjoy many benefits, including:

  • Higher demand in the job market
  • More opportunities to travel and work overseas
  • Likelihood to earn higher salaries
  • Wider range of jobs to choose from

These benefits are particularly helpful for Black students, as, on an individual level, they can reduce or close the racial salary and wealth gap. This can provide Black scholars a greater ability to invest in their communities and inspire others to do the same.

So, what are some of the specific skills and programs that students can look forward to with Chinese Studies?

Skills and Programs Supported by Chinese Studies 

Students who pursue a degree or courses in Chinese studies can graduate with the following valuable skills:

  • Proficiency in Mandarin or Cantonese
  • Ability to work with diverse groups of people
  • Understanding of China’s role in the global economy and history
  • Critical thinking and analytical skills
  • Experience traveling abroad
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Cultural literacy

Even if you’re not planning a career strictly focused on international studies or relations, knowing a Chinese language (Mandarin and Cantonese are the most widely used) can make your job application stand out among hundreds of others. There are plenty of situations in which you may find yourself in communication with a business partner in China, regardless of your chosen industry.

Whatever your interest, students who plan to pursue careers in this field will need to enroll in a bachelor’s degree program in Chinese Studies or Asian Studies. These programs include a wide range of related course subjects, such as:

  • Mandarin language courses
  • Chinese history
  • Chinese culture
  • Chinese business
  • Chinese politics
  • Classical Chinese fiction
  • Chinese art
  • Law and society in China
  • Chinese calligraphy
  • International relations
  • Gender roles in China
  • Chinese philosophy

Now, let’s take a look at some of the careers students can look forward to after completing their Chinese Studies (or related) degree.

Careers in Chinese Studies

Graduates in this field may pursue careers in a wide variety of capacities. Some of these include:

  • Cultural consulting
  • State department or government work
  • Primary or secondary education
  • Journalism
  • International business
  • Translation
  • Interpretation
  • Trade
  • Green and alternative energy industries
  • Tourism
  • Public health

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Want to learn more about this possible career path and college major? Have questions about which UNCF colleges and universities offer programs in Chinese Studies? Looking for help with financing this degree? 

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Preparing for Success

If you’re thinking of pursuing this path, there are steps you can take to set yourself up for success. In high school, consider taking classes such as Mandarin or Cantonese if they are offered, as well as classes related to your specific interest (business, education, agriculture, government, etc). If you can, join a society, club, or program that focuses on international exchange students or Asian cultures.

As you explore the Chinese and Asian Studies programs and courses at various colleges, it’s good to keep some practical questions in mind: 

  • Does the degree or program offered focus on the parts of the discipline that interest you? 
  • Will the department support you in finding and securing an internship? 
  • Does the department offer opportunities in line with your desired educational experience (such as exchange or study abroad programs)?

UNCF Schools to Consider

Currently, the only UNCF-affiliated HBCU to offer both a major and minor specifically in Chinese Studies is Morehouse College. However, Spelman College offers a minor in Asian Studies and has also partnered with George Washington University on a long-term program focused on integrating East Asian studies and related global dimensions into the instruction and academic/professional experiences of Spelman students. 

However, other great UNCF-affiliated HBCUs offer international studies programs that may include courses related to Chinese Studies:

Professional Organizations

There are also many professional organizations that can provide more insight into some of the specializations in this discipline. A sample list includes:

Scholarships Available

There’s no better way to start on your path to a successful career in Chinese studies than with a solid financial foundation. Fortunately, many scholarships are available through UNCF, including some specifically for Chinese studies majors. Keep an eye on the UNCF website for current scholarship opportunities and announcements. 

Search for specific scholarships and view those that are currently accepting applications here! Students should also check with each college or university to see if there are additional scholarships available f Chinese studies.

As you explore your options, be sure to use our guide to applying for scholarships and grants. You can also receive guidance by submitting a major interest form if you are interested in a career in Chinese studies. Submit the form on our website to get started. And follow us on UNCF social media channels to receive notifications about our scholarships and member HBCUs. Reach out today!

You can also show your support for students pursuing careers and furthering equity in Chinese studies by making a contribution to UNCF member schools. Education is the greatest tool we have in creating a just and equitable society in which economic mobility is available to all.Help us achieve this future by donating today!