Language Centre
Chinese (Mandarin) Proficiency Course
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Key information
Key information
- Duration
- 1 term per sub-level; 10 weeks per term
- Attendance mode
- Part-time, online live session/blended learning
Course overview
Course aim
This advanced Chinese course is designed for learners who already possess a high level of spoken proficiency and a working knowledge of approximately 1,200–1,500 Chinese characters, or the equivalent of HSK Level 5. The course aims to further develop linguistic competence and cultural understanding through authentic materials drawn from digital platforms and printed sources.
Upon completion, students are expected to reach a level equivalent to CEFR B2/C1 or above. The course is delivered by the SOAS Language Centre.
Method
The course is taught primarily in Chinese, with occasional use of English for clarification when necessary. A variety of activities will be used to strengthen all four language skills—listening, speaking, reading, and writing—with particular emphasis on in-class discussion of weekly topics.
The course is delivered through a blended learning model: comprised of 15 hours of live, online, structured lessons with the teacher, plus approximately 5 hours of guided independent learning supported by complementary materials (a total of 20 hours of blended learning). The course is designed so that, over the 10‑week period, you should have the opportunity to achieve the stated objectives, depending on your engagement and progress.
Materials
There is no fixed textbook for this course.
Entry requirements and progression route
To be able to join Chinese Proficiency courses, you need to have completed the Advanced level course in Mandarin Chinese at SOAS Language Centre or have an equivalent knowledge of guided learning hours (approximately 420 hours), or possess an equivalent level of proficiency, such as HSK Level 5.
The progression route from Chinese Proficiency 1 is to Chinese Proficiency 2; from Proficiency 2 to Proficiency 3. Students may request a Certificate of Attendance upon completion of a course, provided they have at least 70% attendance.
Please note, that each term, courses are subject to quorum requirements.
For course dates and information, please see our timetables.
Structure
Chinese Proficiency 1/2/3
There is no set syllabus for the proficiency levels. Instruction is based on authentic materials covering themes such as current affairs, culture, and history etc. Materials may include:
- YouTube clips and films
- Online Chinese news stories
- Newspaper and magazine articles
- Modern and classical literature
Possible Topics
- 修身养性 (Self-cultivation and personal development)
- 婚恋习俗 (Marriage and relationship customs)
- 音乐艺术 (Music and the arts)
- Student-selected topics
More complex grammar and vocabulary will be introduced as needed to further improve fluency and accuracy in both spoken and written Chinese.
The topics listed above provide an indication of the content that may be covered. Actual materials and themes may vary depending on the proficiency level and progress of students.
Contact us
Related information
See the full list of Language Centre short courses in Chinese on the Chinese language homepage.
