Chinese and Thai Studies

Key Facts

• Program Title: Chinese and Thai Studies
• Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
• Duration: 5 years
• Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
• Application Deadline: 30 June 2026
• Location: University of Leeds, United Kingdom
• Field of Study: Language Studies
• Language of Instruction: English

Program Structure

Year 1 – Foundations in Chinese and Thai Language and Culture

• Introduction to Chinese Language (Mandarin)
• Introduction to Thai Language
• Chinese Culture and Society
• Thai Culture and Society
• Research Methods in Language and Cultural Studies

Year 2 – Developing Language Proficiency and Cultural Understanding

• Intermediate Chinese and Thai Language Skills
• Chinese and Thai Literature: Classical to Modern
• Chinese and Thai Cinema and Media
• Contemporary Chinese and Thai Politics and Economy
• Elective Modules in Chinese or Thai History, Art, or Music

Year 3 – Advanced Language and Cultural Studies

• Advanced Chinese and Thai Language Proficiency
• Translation and Interpretation (Chinese-Thai-English)
• Comparative Cultural Studies: China and Thailand
• Chinese and Thai Philosophy and Thought
• Elective Modules in Chinese or Thai Linguistics or Regional Studies

Year 4 – Specialization and Study Abroad

• Advanced Topics in Chinese and Thai Studies
• Independent Research Project in Chinese or Thai Studies
• Language and Society in Contemporary China and Thailand
• Elective Modules in Politics, Business, or Regional Studies
• Study Abroad or Internship in China or Thailand (optional)

Year 5 – Final Specialization and Independent Research

• Contemporary Issues in China and Thailand
• Independent Research Project in Chinese and Thai Studies
• Advanced Research Methods in East Asian Studies
• Elective Modules in Comparative East Asian Studies or Global Studies
• Dissertation or Final Project

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Chinese and Thai Studies at the University of Leeds will be well-prepared for careers in international business, translation, diplomacy, education, and cultural exchange. With advanced proficiency in Mandarin and Thai, alongside a deep understanding of Chinese and Thai cultures, graduates can pursue roles in multinational corporations, government agencies, NGOs, embassies, tourism, and media. Career opportunities also exist in publishing, journalism, international relations, and language services. Graduates can work as language specialists, translators, interpreters, cultural consultants, or international business managers, facilitating connections between China, Thailand, and the global community.

Why Choose This Program

The University of Leeds offers a comprehensive and immersive program in Chinese and Thai Studies, combining language proficiency with an in-depth understanding of both Chinese and Thai cultures. This interdisciplinary program provides students with the opportunity to study two major East Asian languages and their cultural, political, and historical contexts. With access to native-speaking faculty, study abroad opportunities in China or Thailand, and research collaborations, students will gain valuable language immersion and cultural insights. By choosing this program, students will develop linguistic skills, cultural awareness, and research expertise, preparing them for a wide range of careers in international fields related to China, Thailand, and Southeast Asia.

Contact Information

For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +44 (0)113 243 1751
Email: admissions@leeds.ac.uk
Address: University of Leeds, Woodhouse Lane, Leeds LS2 9JT, United Kingdom