Chinese (Mandarin)
Chinese is spoken by about 1.6 billion people, with one fifth of the world's population now using it as their mother tongue.
Chinese has become more and more popular for language learners, and with the economic development of China and its overseas investments, speakers of Chinese are in high demand. Knowledge of the language can help you in a government career, but it will also be of benefit in business and in industries such as engineering, medical, and in the non-profit and international relations sectors. Speaking Chinese can help you build relationships with people in China and overseas Chinese communities.
Chinese modules for 2026/27 are offered at Beginner and Intermediate level.
In 2026/27, only credit-bearing modules are offered in the School of the Arts, but you can take non-credit courses in Queen Mary's Confucius Institute.
Chinese credit-bearing modules are year-long (over two semesters), they have 88 taught classroom hours and are worth 30 credits. Check your level or take a diagnostic test.
All language modules are taught in-person, on the Mile End campus.
The modules offered in 2026-27 are listed below. Times and rooms will be added as the information becomes available.
Please note that in some cases there may be changes to days/times or venue prior to the start of teaching. Any changes will be updated on this website.
Studying Mandarin at QMUL has been a truly enriching experience. Lessons are fun and interactive, and studying Mandarin has given me the confidence and basic skills to speak to a whole host of patients within the dental school. One notable moment was when a young girl turned up with her father (who spoke little English) and a translator had not been booked. To everyone’s surprise I was able to have basic communication with the father, asking his name and number to fill in forms and advising him on dates of further appointments. Being told I had made someone’s day, in an environment where they would not have been able to understand anyone, was particularly special!— Tallulah Hall, BDS Dentistry (2020)
Introductory Chinese
Two weekly sessions, over two semesters
- Module Code: CHI4200 (30 credits)
- For: Complete beginners. Target level: A2, HSK 2
- Schedule: 22 weeks (21st September 2026 – 16th April 2027)
- Hours: 88 classroom hours plus 212 hours independent study
- Class times: TBC
Chinese II Intensive
Two weekly sessions, over two semesters.
- Module Code: CHI5200 (30 credits)
- For: Learners with level A2. Target level: B1, HSK 3
- Schedule: 22 weeks (21st September 2026 – 16th April 2027)
- Hours: 88 classroom hours plus 212 hours independent study
- Class times: TBC
Chinese III
Two weekly sessions, over two semesters.
- Module Code: CHI6200 (30 credits)
- For: Learners with level B1. Target level: B1/2, HSK 4
- Schedule: 22 weeks (21st September 2026 – 16th April 2027)
- Hours: 88 classroom hours plus 212 hours independent study
- Class times: TBC