BA (Hons) 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. Specialist resources With four libraries on campus, you’ll find space for study, group work and research. Our Chinese collection is one of the best collections of modern Chinese books in the country, alongside our Japanese holdings and a growing East Asian Studies and Thai collection. The world-class Brotherton Library holds a wide variety of manuscript, archive and early printed material in its Special Collections – valuable assets for your independent research. You’ll have access to free classes and workshops so you can learn how to find resources and develop your study skills. Our Language Zone gives you access to free learning resources, including space for personal study, language learning software, and video, audio, books and magazines. You'll also have access to our translation computer labs equipped with specialist software and our interpreter training booths to explore different career options. Take a look around our libraries:Brotherton Library Laidlaw Library Edward Boyle Library

A-level: ABB GCSE: Grade 4/C in a foreign languageOther course specific tests: Where an applicant is taking the EPQ in a relevant subject this might be considered alongside other Level 3 qualifications and may attract an alternative offer in addition to the standard offer. If you are taking A Levels, this would be BBB at A Level and grade A in the EPQ.We welcome applications from mature students with Access qualifications, and from students with a wide range of qualifications.Alternative qualification Access to HE Diploma Pass diploma with 60 credits overall, including at least 45 credits at level 3, of which 30 credits must be at Distinction and 15 credits at Merit or higher. An interview and a piece of written work may also be required. This course has additional subject specific requirements. Please contact the Admissions Office for more information. BTEC BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma: DDM. Other BTEC qualifications are also considered. Please contact the Admissions Office for more information. Cambridge Pre-U M1, M1, M2 International Baccalaureate 34 points overall including 16 at Higher Level and 4 in a foreign language at Standard Level. Irish Leaving Certificate (higher Level) H2, H2, H2, H3, H3, H3 Scottish Highers / Advanced Highers BB in Advanced Highers and AABBB in Highers, or B in Advanced Highers and AAABB in Highers, or AABBBB in Highers. Welsh Baccalaureate The Welsh Baccalaureate is not typically included in the academic conditions of an offer made to you for this course. If you choose to undertake the Welsh Baccalaureate we would strongly encourage you to draw upon these experiences within your personal statement, as your qualification will then be taken into account both when your application is initially considered by the selection panel and again when reviewed by the admissions tutor at the time your A-level results are passed to us. Other Qualifications European Baccalaureate: 75% Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the School’s Undergraduate Admissions Team.