This information is part of the Colgate University catalog, 2023-24.
The major in Chinese provides students with a solid foundation in the Chinese language, literature, and culture through extensive language training and broad exposure to Chinese literary and cultural traditions. Prospective majors should plan to begin Chinese language study during their first year at Colgate and are strongly encouraged to participate in the China Study Group.
Major Requirements
In order to encourage exposure to a wide range of approaches to Chinese studies, the department strongly recommends that students elect a section of CORE C165 taught by a member of a department other than East Asian languages and literatures, and enrich their major by taking HIST 368 - China, the Great Wall, and Beyond (AS) and/or HIST 369 - Modern China (1750 - present) (AS) .
Upon completion of CHIN 202, the Chinese major requires a minimum of eight courses from the following:
Required Courses
- CHIN 303 - Films and Media
- CHIN 304 - Readings in Social Issues
- CHIN 405 - Reading Chinese Newspapers
- CHIN 406 - Readings in Modern Literature
- CORE C165 - China
One of the Following
- CHIN 222 - China through Literature and Film
- CHIN 225 - China and the West
- CHIN 299 - Chinese Medical Culture
Two Courses from the Following
At least one course must focus on China
- CHIN 450 - Advanced Readings in Chinese World Outlook
- CHIN 481 - China in Transition (China Study Group) (in China)
- CHIN 482 - Topics in Chinese Culture (China Study Group) (in China)
- JAPN 222 - Japan through Literature and Film
- JAPN 233 - Japanese Popular Culture and Media
- JAPN 240 - Gender and Sexuality in Japanese Culture
- JAPN 255 - Hidden Japan: Tea Ceremony
GPA Requirement
All courses must be passed with a grade of C or better to count toward the major.
Honors and High Honors
Students interested in pursuing honors can find the additional requirements on the East Asian Languages and Literatures department page.
East Asian Languages and Literatures Department
For more information about the department, including Faculty, transfer credit, awards, etc., please visit the East Asian Languages and Literatures department catalog page.