For Prospective Students

Explore how studying Chinese at Reed combines language learning with cultural, literary, and humanistic inquiry.

Learn Chinese as a global language with real-world relevance
Build linguistic, cultural, and analytical skills valued across disciplines
Experience small classes and hands-on opportunities beyond the classroom

You don’t need any prior experience with Chinese language or culture to get started—many students begin exploring both at Reed.

Why study Chinese at Reed?

Studying Chinese gives you a new way of thinking about language, culture, and meaning. As you learn to read, write, and speak Chinese, you begin to see how language reflects history, values, and everyday life in ways that are very different from English.

At Reed, Chinese is taught in small, discussion-based classes that emphasize close engagement with texts and ideas. Language learning is closely connected to literature, history, and culture, and students are encouraged to link Chinese study to their interests in the humanities and social sciences. Whether Chinese becomes your major or part of a broader academic path, it offers a challenging and rewarding way to expand how you understand the world.

The Chinese program has incredibly knowledgeable and supportive professors and offers a diverse course selection, including classes in literature, art history, history, anthropology, religion, and economics. I can confidently say that after taking fourteen China-focused courses, my only regret is not taking more.

Stephanie Shu ’22

Major and Minor Requirements

Students may pursue either a major or a minor in Chinese, and both options are designed to be flexible and to work well alongside other majors. Many students combine Chinese with fields such as literature, history, philosophy, linguistics, political science, or other areas in the humanities and social sciences. No prior experience with Chinese is required to begin the language sequence.

The Chinese Major

The major in Chinese provides sustained training in the language while integrating the study of literature, culture, and history. Students progress through the language sequence and complete additional coursework that allows them to deepen their engagement with Chinese texts and cultural contexts.

The Chinese Minor

The minor in Chinese offers students the opportunity to develop meaningful language proficiency and cultural understanding alongside another major. It is well suited for students who wish to complement their primary field of study with Chinese language and cultural training.

Students are encouraged to consult with Chinese faculty early to plan a course sequence that fits their interests, goals, and overall academic plans.

Study Abroad, Research, and Funding Opportunities

Studying Chinese at Reed often extends beyond the classroom through study abroad, summer language programs, or independent research, building on what they learn in their courses and applying it in new contexts.

Study Abroad

Students may study abroad in Chinese-speaking regions through a range of approved programs. Study abroad offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in the language, gain firsthand experience with local cultures, and strengthen your confidence using Chinese in everyday settings.

Summer Study and Research

In addition to study abroad, students may pursue summer language study or research projects related to Chinese language and culture.

Funding and Fellowships

Reed offers funding opportunities that can support study abroad, summer language study, and research. Programs such as the Ruby-Lankford Fund and the President’s Summer Fellowship help make these opportunities more accessible.

Students are encouraged to talk with Chinese faculty about how study abroad, summer study, or research opportunities might fit into their academic plans and interests.

What Can I Do with a Degree in Chinese?

Studying Chinese opens many possible paths rather than pointing toward a single career. The language and cultural skills students develop at Reed—close reading, careful interpretation, cross-cultural communication, and intellectual flexibility—are valuable in a wide range of fields.

Reed students who study Chinese have gone on to pursue paths such as:

Graduate and professional study
Education, translation, and language-focused work
International research and study
Public service, non-profit, and NGO work
Careers that value cultural knowledge, global awareness, and communication skills

To see examples of how Reed alumni have used Chinese in their academic and professional lives, visit Life Beyond Reed for Chinese Majors.

Learn More

If you’re curious about studying Chinese at Reed, we encourage you to learn more and ask questions. Whether you are deciding which language to begin, considering a major or minor, or exploring how Chinese might fit into your academic plans, faculty are happy to talk with you.

For more information, you may:

Review the Frequently Asked Questions
Contact Chinese faculty with questions about courses or placement
Learn more about how Reed supports students as they plan for life beyond college

No prior experience with Chinese is required to get started, and students are welcome to explore the language before deciding whether to pursue a major or minor.