Chinese and English

Chinese and English is a combination that develops genuine linguistic and cultural depth in two of the world's most significant languages, sitting at opposite ends of the linguistic spectrum but each carrying an extraordinary weight of literary and cultural heritage. Chinese, in its Mandarin form, is the most widely spoken first language in the world, the vehicle of one of the great civilisations of human history, and an increasingly important language for international business, diplomacy, and cultural exchange. English is the global lingua franca of science, business, law, and literature, and one of the most internationally influential bodies of writing in any language.

At the University of Westminster, this three-year full-time programme trains you to become a competent linguist and communicator ready for graduate employment, as the current description reflects. Westminster places particular emphasis on employability, offering high-quality teaching in all language skills alongside knowledge and understanding of contemporary cultural contexts, and this orientation towards professional readiness is appropriate for a combination where the career applications of bilingualism and cultural knowledge are substantial. You will develop Mandarin Chinese to a level of genuine communicative competence, alongside your engagement with Chinese literature, culture, and contemporary society, while your English studies develop critical reading, writing, and analytical skills through engagement with the literary tradition and with questions of language and communication.

The programme includes a sandwich year, a year abroad, and a work placement, providing professional experience and the direct immersive experience of living and studying in a Chinese-speaking environment that is essential for developing real fluency.

Graduates with Chinese and English skills pursue careers in international business, translation and interpreting, diplomacy, journalism, publishing, education, cultural organisations, and a wide range of professional roles where bilingual capability and cross-cultural understanding are valued. Postgraduate study in Chinese studies, translation, or linguistics supports those seeking further specialisation.