CORE COURSES

Chinese History (3 credits)
One-third of this seminar course consists of lectures, one-third consists of presentations by the students, and one-third consists of field trips to historical sites. The course covers the history of China from its earliest beginnings to the present. Students become familiar with the major dynasties of China, their character and contributions, and their major figures. On a study tour to Xi’an, Beijing, and Shanghai, students visit many of the most famous Chinese sites of historical importance, including the Terra Cotta Soldiers, the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, the Temple of Heaven, the Shanghai Museum, and much more. Each student will also read and make a presentation on a book about one significant event or person in Chinese history, such as the Boxer Rebellion, the Mongol empire, the international voyages of the Ming dynasty, Matteo Ricci, etc.
 Chinese History Syllabus

Intercultural Communication (3 credits)
Intercultural Communication is a required course. This course covers issues intended to help students understand and adjust to Chinese culture. The focus will be on how our students demonstrate their beliefs in their daily lives within the context of China. Topics include culture and basic values, culture shock, introductory linguistics, contextualization, and factors involved in successful cross-cultural interaction. Well-known films featuring famous actors (both Western and Chinese) that focus on cross-cultural experiences will be shown and discussed each week.
 Intercultural Communication Syllabus

Contemporary Society: Public Policy & Economic Development (3 credits)
This required course examines two key and inter-related aspects of modern China: government policy and economic reforms. Public Policy covers the structure of the Chinese government, social rights and the legal system, and issues such as ethnic minorities, family planning, and education. Economic Development focuses on the government policies from 1949 to the present, from the commune system to the current market-oriented reforms. Other topics include foreign investment, pollution and the environment, and the World Trade Organization. Each student will present an investigative report based on interviews with Chinese about a topic relating to contemporary Chinese society that is of particular interest to Americans. The goal of this course is for students to learn about China by seeking out informed Chinese themselves.
 Contemporary Society & Public Policy Syllabus

Concentrations
In addition to the core courses students also select one of the following concentrations:

       China Studies Concentration       
       Business Concentration