Chinese Studies

Discover China through one of Europe's oldest and most distinguished centres of Chinese Studies. The English-language Master's programme in Chinese Studies at Leipzig University offers an intellectually stimulating and internationally oriented education for graduates in Chinese Studies as well as students from the humanities and social sciences with a strong command of modern Chinese. Our programme provides an in-depth study of Chinese culture and history in Asia. What makes Leipzig unique is its commitment to understanding contemporary China in historical depth. By exploring both the enduring traditions that have shaped Chinese civilisation and the profound transformations of the modern era, students gain the knowledge and critical perspective needed to make sense of contemporary China in all its complexity. Teaching is research-led and encourages students to engage directly with primary sources, current scholarly debates, and interdisciplinary approaches. Small class sizes, close interaction with faculty, and an active academic environment provide excellent opportunities to develop individual academic interests and prepare for independent scholarship. Whether you aspire to pursue a PhD or to build an international career, the programme equips you with the analytical skills, linguistic expertise, and intercultural competence that are increasingly valued in today's global world. Our graduates have gone on to successful careers in academia, diplomacy, government, international organisations, cultural institutions, publishing, journalism, NGOs, and the private sector. First Year: Building Expertise The first year provides a strong foundation for advanced research and prepares you to engage confidently with the research literature and primary sources. Four foundational modules reflect the research strengths of our department in areas such as religion and popular literature, economic and social history, and contemporary politics and society in a globalised world. Each module combines either two seminars or a seminar with a reading class and introduces you to a wide range of scholarly readings in both English and Chinese. Small classes encourage lively discussion, close interaction with faculty, and the development of your own research interests. In addition, you may deepen your proficiency in modern and literary Chinese or explore the basics of Japanese. Second Year: Developing Your Own Strength The second year is dedicated to specialisation, independent research, and your Master's thesis. During the third semester, you may choose optional courses based on your personal interests from a broad catalogue of offerings in our university, for example Global Studies, Japanese history and culture, Religious and Buddhist Studies, Social Anthropology, History, or Political and Social Sciences. Alternatively, you may start refining your research project, conduct source-based research, and, if desired, spend a semester abroad to deepen your language skills or work with additional academic resources. The fourth semester is devoted to writing your Master's thesis. Throughout this process, there will be regular exchange with fellow students and faculty, and our devoted faculty will closely guide your progress. By the end of the programme, you will have completed an original piece of research that demonstrates your expertise and prepares you for doctoral study or a wide range of professional careers. PDF Download