China is the world's most populous nation with over 5,000 years of history and has been responsible for some of the most important developments in the history of civilisation. Currently, China is the world's second largest economy and will continue to grow throughout the 21st century. With a rich and fascinating history, unique cultural and philosophical traditions, and an ever-increasing role in global politics and economy, the importance of understanding modern China has never been greater. In response to the growing demand for graduates with a knowledge of Chinese language and culture, Maynooth University offers you the chance to take up new arts subjects as well as continuing with ones that you have already studied at school and university. This is an exciting new opportunity! You are going to learn the language which is spoken by the largest number of speakers of any world language! Learning Chinese is a window to understanding the world. Knowing Chinese language, culture and society will help you to acquire new skills and develop new interests that could be of considerable value to you in your future career and enable you to be more competitive in the global market.
The Department of Chinese Studies at Maynooth University offers one of only two BA programmes in Chinese Studies available in Ireland. There are 85 undergraduate students studying at the Department, covering a wide range of subjects including Chinese culture, politics and history. Chinese Studies at Maynooth University follows the tradition of Maynooth University School of Modern Languages, Literatures and Cultures. Subjects studied as part of the BA include Mandarin Chinese; Gender, Class and Ethnicity in Chinese Society; Chinese Social Theories; Readings in Contemporary Chinese Culture and Current Affairs; Modern Chinese Literature and Art.
There are currently five academics teaching and researching at the Department, as well as a number of guest lecturers. Our Faculty has close relationships with UCC School of Asian Studies and DCU School of Applied Language & Intercultural Studies. We also work together with IBEC and the Asian Studies Ireland Association.