Chinese and Thai Studies

China today constitutes almost a fifth of the global economy, and is a major centre for technological, business and cultural innovation, while Thailand has undergone a radical economic, political and social transformation in recent decades. This degree will allow you to develop both Chinese and Thai language skills to an advanced level, while discovering the cultural, political and historical context of these fascinating countries.

We teach both languages from beginners’ level, but if you have some prior knowledge we can normally accommodate you. You’ll build your skills in each language through core modules, and you’ll be introduced to the culture, history and politics of China, Thailand and the East Asian region.

A wide range of optional modules will expand your knowledge, allowing you to focus on Chinese culture, politics and society, and Thai history and religion, among others. One of the strengths of East Asian Studies at Leeds is that we have expertise spanning many diverse aspects of this fascinating region, which encompasses Northeast and Southeast Asia.

On this five-year course, you’ll spend two years abroad, with a year at a university in mainland China or Taiwan, and a year in Thailand giving you first-hand experience of the languages and cultures. You’ll have many opportunities to immerse yourself in China’s and Thailand’s rich and fascinating cultures, and you’ll be able to visit other East and Southeast Asian countries close by, such as Japan, South Korea, Burma, Laos and Cambodia.

During the upper years of your course, you’ll take advanced language modules in both languages, which use authentic materials and offer training in translation. Alongside these, you’ll develop your critical thinking and research skills as you choose optional modules exploring various aspects of Chinese, Thai and East Asian Studies, ranging from literature and visual cultures through to political economy and international relations. You’ll undertake a final-year project on a topic of your choosing, designed to showcase your knowledge and skills.