UCC to offer Chinese studies as degree subject

THE need for graduates with an understanding of modern China has prompted the establishment of a dedicated degree subject at University College Cork.

Thu, 22 Jun, 2006 - 01:00

Niall Murray, Education Correspondent

It will be offered by the National Institute of Chinese Studies set up as a joint initiative between UCC and University College Dublin, details of which were announced yesterday.

From next September, the option will be offered to students registering for the BA degree in arts, Celtic studies and social sciences.

UCC president Professor Gerry Wrixon said the move is a response to the growing demand for graduates with an understanding of the country. “This important development means that, for the first time, students at UCC will have the opportunity of undertaking a programme of study about China, the emerging world economic superpower,” he said.

The hope is that the institute will produce future Irish entrepreneurs, politicians, diplomats and educators with expertise on China. A number of Government-led trips to China in recent years have led to new links being forged between businesses and colleges in both countries.

Professor Fan Hong has been appointed director of the institute at UCC. The institute will promote mutual understanding and respect between the Irish and the Chinese, establishing close relationships with organisations that have special interests in China and provide consultancy for business, government and academic institutions.It will also promote research on projects related to China and intends to establish a first class research team.

The BA in Chinese Studies will be a four-year programme, with participants studying in UCC for three years and in China for a further year. The first year modules include the study of the Chinese language and an introduction to Chinese society and culture.

These modules continue in subsequent years along with others including contemporary Chinese history; literature, media; business law and practice; politics, policies and Chinese patterns of governance; and China, Europe and globalisation.