Q: Can I learn Chinese language skills by taking online courses with Coursera?

Yes - or, duì , in Chinese! There are a wide array of language learning opportunities on Coursera, including courses for every level of Mandarin Chinese - the most common dialect of this language by far. You can learn from top-ranked schools in China including Peking University and National Taiwan University, And, because Coursera lets you view and complete course materials on Chinese language on a flexible schedule, you can fit your education in this valuable skill into your existing work or family life.

Question 1

Why is it important to learn Chinese?

Accepted Answer

The Chinese language is spoken by over 1 billion people in the world, with more native speakers than any other language. Learning Chinese language communication skills is important to be able to understand the vast, diverse country of China and its unique, incredibly influential culture. Whether you want to deepen your appreciation of the country’s ancient philosophies and religions like Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism, travel to famous tourist destinations like the Great Wall of China and the Forbidden City, or explore its “8 Great Cuisines” including Szechuan and Cantonese, learning Chinese is an invaluable skill.

Chinese is also an increasingly-important language for business. According to the World Bank, China’s gross domestic product (GDP) in 2019 surpassed $14 trillion, making it the world’s second-largest economy after the United States. The country’s economy has developed incredibly quickly over the past two decades, led by electronics manufacturing powerhouses like Huawei and Haier as well as tech companies like Alibaba and Tencent. Between its thriving export industry and growing consumer economy, China is a business opportunity of unsurpassed potential, making Chinese language skills a very valuable asset.

Question 2

What kinds of careers can I pursue with Chinese language skills?

Accepted Answer

Because China is such a vast and growing market for business, Chinese language skills can be an asset to a wide range of careers - especially in the electronics and technology sectors. Being able to communicate in even basic Mandarin Chinese with representatives of the country’s leading firms is a rare ability that can open doors and bridge cultural gaps in ways that can be a game-changer for business negotiations.

If you are fluent in Chinese speech, writing, and grammar, you can potentially pursue a career as an interpreter or translator. Facilitating communications between business, political, and cultural leaders can be an exciting career, travel and impactful work opportunities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, interpreters and translators earned a median annual salary of $51,830 in 2019, and the ongoing globalization of the world economy is expected to drive faster-than-average growth in these jobs.

Question 3

Can I learn Chinese language skills by taking online courses with Coursera?

Accepted Answer

Yes - or, duì, in Chinese! There are a wide array of language learning opportunities on Coursera, including courses for every level of Mandarin Chinese - the most common dialect of this language by far. You can learn from top-ranked schools in China including Peking University and National Taiwan University, And, because Coursera lets you view and complete course materials on Chinese language on a flexible schedule, you can fit your education in this valuable skill into your existing work or family life.

Question 4

How do I know if learning Chinese is right for me?

Accepted Answer

If you have a genuine interest in Chinese culture and an enthusiasm for learning about it, learning Chinese and about Chinese topics is likely a good fit for you. Other traits that will help you on this educational path include an open mind, intellectual curiosity, and a knack for receiving and processing information.

Question 5

What are common career paths for someone in Chinese Studies?

Accepted Answer

If you have great communication skills, you can pursue a career in foreign diplomacy or as an interpreter, and with good writing skills, you can embark on a career as a foreign correspondent. If you like the idea of employment in business and industry, you might work as a banker, an importer-exporter, or a corporate business consultant, marketing expert, accountant, or finance specialist. Additional career paths to consider include teaching, travel and tourism, public health, immigration, customs, human rights, or research. After completing a curriculum in Chinese, you should come away with thorough knowledge of Mandarin, the most widely-spoken language in China. In addition, you'll learn about the written Chinese language and Chinese history, culture, and politics. As China's place in the world continues to become more prominent, career opportunities for someone with a background in Chinese studies are plentiful.

Question 6

What types of places hire people with a background in Chinese Studies?

Accepted Answer

You can go to work for the Foreign Service or an international corporation, a foreign law firm, a travel agency, a newspaper or magazine, or a domestic or foreign college or university. More places that hire people with a Chinese studies background include human or civil rights organizations, financial institutions, public health agencies, and hospitals or medical clinics. The great thing about completing a Chinese studies program is the wealth of employment opportunities you'll enjoy.

Question 7

What topics can I study that are related to Chinese?

Accepted Answer

You can learn another foreign language or study linguistics, art, music, or the culinary arts. Additional topics that intersect with Chinese studies include international relations, global studies, business, alternative medicine, and religions like Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism.

Question 8

What are the benefits of taking an online Chinese course?

Accepted Answer

Online Chinese courses offer a convenient and flexible way to enhance your existing knowledge or learn new Chinese skills. With a wide range of Chinese classes, you can conveniently learn at your own pace to advance your Chinese.

Question 9

What Chinese courses are best for training and upskilling employees or the workforce?

Accepted Answer

When looking to enhance your workforce's skills in Chinese, it's crucial to select a course that aligns with their current abilities and learning objectives. Our Skills Dashboard is an invaluable tool for identifying skill gaps and choosing the most appropriate course for effective upskilling. For a comprehensive understanding of how our courses can benefit your employees, explore the enterprise solutions we offer. Discover more about our tailored programs at Coursera for Business here.

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Explore the Chinese Course Catalog

English for Journalism

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Frequently Asked Questions about Chinese

Why is it important to learn Chinese?‎

What kinds of careers can I pursue with Chinese language skills?‎

Can I learn Chinese language skills by taking online courses with Coursera?‎

How do I know if learning Chinese is right for me?‎

What are common career paths for someone in Chinese Studies?‎

What types of places hire people with a background in Chinese Studies?‎

What topics can I study that are related to Chinese?‎

What are the benefits of taking an online Chinese course?‎

What Chinese courses are best for training and upskilling employees or the workforce?‎

Other topics to explore