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  2. Language Centre
  3. Language Learning
  4. Chinese (Mandarin)

Chinese (Mandarin)

Tourists in Beijing's Forbidden Palace

Chinese is spoken by about 1.6 billion people, with one fifth of the world's population now using it as their mother tongue. Chinese has become more and more popular for language learners, and with the economic development of China and its overseas investments, speakers of Chinese are in high demand. Knowledge of the language can help you in a government career, but it will also be of benefit in business and in industries such as engineering, medical, and in the non-profit and international relations sectors. Speaking Chinese can help you build relationships with people in China and overseas Chinese communities. 

Chinese modules for 2025/26 are offered at Beginner level.

Only credit-bearing modules are offered in 2025/26. Modules with 44 taught classroom hours are worth 15 credits, those with 88 taught classroom hours are worth 30 credits. Check your level or take a diagnostic test.

Most of our modules are year-long. Intensive modules (two sessions @ 2 hours a week) can also be taken over one semester only. All language modules are taught in-person, on the Mile End campus. 

The modules offered in 2025-26 are listed below. Times and rooms will be added as the information becomes available.

 Chinese Language and Culture 1a (two weekly sessions, semester 1 only)

  • Module Code: LAN4081 (15 credits)
  • For: Complete beginners. Target level: A1, HSK 1
  • Schedule: 11 weeks (22nd September – 12th December 2025)
  • Hours: 44 classroom hours plus 106 hours independent study
  • Class times: TBC 

 Chinese Language and Culture 1 (two weekly sessions over 2 semesters)

  • Module Code: LAN4080 (30 credits)
  • For: Complete beginners. Target level: A2, HSK 2
  • Schedule: 22 weeks (22nd September 2025 – 17th April 2026)
  • Hours: 88 classroom hours plus 212 hours independent study
  • Class times: TBC

 Chinese Language and Culture 1b (two weekly sessions, semester 2 only)

  • Module Code: LAN4082 (15 credits)
  • For: Learners with level A1. Target level: A2, HSK 2
  • Schedule: 11 weeks (26th January –17th April 2026)
  • Hours: 44 classroom hours plus 106 hours independent study
  • Class times: TBC 

Please note that in some cases there may be changes to days/times or venue prior to the start of teaching. Any changes will be updated on this website.

Studying Mandarin at QMUL has been a truly enriching experience. Lessons are fun and interactive, and studying Mandarin has given me the confidence and basic skills to speak to a whole host of patients within the dental school. One notable moment was when a young girl turned up with her father (who spoke little English) and a translator had not been booked. To everyone’s surprise I was able to have basic communication with the father, asking his name and number to fill in forms and advising him on dates of further appointments. Being told I had made someone’s day, in an environment where they would not have been able to understand anyone, was particularly special!
— Tallulah Hall, BDS Dentistry (2020)
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