Academic Program/Course Information
Unlike many other study abroad programs in China, SU Abroad offers much more than just language courses. Our academic program features field study with on-site lectures in Beijing and other cities, courses taught in English that enroll both SU and Tsinghua students, and language at all levels.
Through a special arrangement with Tsinghua, Syracuse University program students are able to enroll in pre-selected classes taught in English for Tsinghua students proficient in English, including graduate courses in the School of Journalism. Tsinghua students are also invited attend Syracuse University courses taught in English. This arrangement allows for discussion and interaction on contemporary issues from both the Chinese and U.S. perspective.
During the semester, program students study Mandarin language at appropriate levels, taught by faculty from Tsinghua's Chinese Language and Culture Institute. Program students fully fluent (written and oral) in Mandarin may apply for enrollment in Tsinghua classes in their discipline of study. Please contact Sue Shane for more information about direct enrollment at sshane@syr.edu.
>> View all courses for SU Beijing
Program Features for Undergraduate and Graduate Students:
Presemester Field Studies Seminar:
China: Past, Present, and Future
(2 weeks, 2 credits)
Introduction to diversity of cultures and economies within China, and the forces that shape peoples lives in the PRC. Taught on site in Xian or Kunming, Shanghai and Beijing. Required for undergraduates. An additional credit may be taken as independent study by completing a research paper during the semester on a topic related to the seminar.
Semester Chinese Language Courses
(4 or 8 credits)
During the semester students are placed in appropriate-level language classes for the semester. Classes meet 4 hours a day, 5 days a week.
Courses Taught in English
(6 or 9 credits)
Students enroll in 2-3 additional courses (6 to 9 credits) from a selection of courses in political science, international relations, communications, anthropology and history. Courses at the 500 level are open to graduate students and advanced undergraduates.
Courses Taught in Chinese
Students with advanced oral and written proficiency in Mandarin may apply for enrollment in regularly offered Tsinghua courses. Go to www.tsinghua.edu.cn for Tsinghua course listings and advise Syracuse by the application deadline.
Research Projects/Independent Study
Students have access to Tsinghua's library as well as web access to Syracuse University's extensive library databases and e-journals during their semester in Beijing. Research requests must be submitted for review and approval prior to departure.
