In the IU School of Liberal Arts Chinese Studies program, you can explore one of the world’s most influential cultures right from the heart of Indianapolis. Our city’s growing international community, cultural festivals, and global business connections make it an ideal place to study Chinese language and culture. As you learn the most widely spoken language in the world, you also dive into China’s history, politics, religion, literature, film, and contemporary culture—gaining a fuller understanding of how China’s past and present shape its role on the global stage.
A minor in Chinese Studies or East Asian Studies fits naturally with many majors and helps you build the cultural awareness and communication skills that employers value. You develop practical language abilities, strengthen your critical thinking, and learn to navigate cultural differences with confidence. These skills translate well into careers in government, international relations, foreign service, immigration services, tourism, business, and entrepreneurship—any field where understanding China and its global influence gives you an advantage.
Minor in Chinese Studies
The minor in Chinese Studies gives you a broad, comparative look at Chinese language, culture, history, literature, cinema, and society. You’ll start with first-year Chinese language courses and then choose from a range of classes to complete the minor. If you want firsthand experience, you can also apply for the IU Indianapolis Summer Abroad program in Guangzhou.
As you move through the minor, you explore how ancient traditions and modern realities intersect in China today. You’ll study the texts, ideas, leaders, and cultural movements that shaped Chinese civilization, while also examining China’s current role in global affairs—its economic growth, international relationships, environmental challenges, and social issues. Topics like human rights, social justice, religion, and governance help you understand the forces driving some of the world’s most important conversations.
A Chinese Studies minor helps you build cultural awareness, critical thinking skills, and the ability to communicate across differences—strengths that translate well into careers in diplomacy, media, education, business, research, nonprofit work, and beyond. The opportunities are as wide-ranging as your interests, and the global perspective you gain will stay with you long after graduation.
Minor in East Asian Studies
The minor in East Asian Studies introduces you to the rich diversity of East Asian cultures through a comparative look at history, literature, cinema, society, philosophy, and traditional health practices. As you explore major social changes and cultural traditions across the region, you gain a deeper understanding of how East Asian societies have shaped—and continue to shape—the global landscape.
Through this coursework, you strengthen your analytical and critical thinking skills, broaden your problem-solving abilities, and learn to view the world from multiple cultural perspectives. You also develop the communication skills and cultural awareness needed to engage effectively with East Asian communities and global partners.
This minor adds meaningful value to your postgraduation path. Whether you pursue careers in government, international relations, business, nonprofit work, education, public health, or community engagement, your knowledge of East Asian cultures and your ability to navigate cross-cultural contexts set you apart as a thoughtful, adaptable, and globally minded professional.
Certificate in Chinese Studies
In an age of globalization, China is one of the fastest-growing regions, with more than 20% of the world's population being Chinese. The coursework for this certificate will help you build your experience with the Chinese language while you also learn more about Chinese history and culture. This certificate can provide essential preparation for anyone whose career will involve working with China or in Chinese-speaking communities.
More information
For more information about Chinese Studies, please contact the program director, Jing Wang.
