The School of International Chinese Studies at East China Normal University accepts applications from international students interested in pursuing a 3-year research-oriented program for a Master degree in Literature. The program is based on ECNU’s main campus in Shanghai. Our program focus is Chinese literature and culture, and we encourage comparative studies between China and other cultures as we strongly believe that literary and cultural dialogue is very necessary for the world. This program is supported by teachers in the areas of Chinese literature, comparative literature, linguistics, translatology and aesthetics. Mandarin language learning support will be provided, and degree-seekers will be required to pass the HSK Level 3 Examination or the corresponding language test organized by School of International Chinese Studies in order to graduate.  

Main courses will be taught in English though many materials used in class might be in Chinese. Students in the program must achieve the required 32 credits, finish all the required academic tasks and successfully defend a thesis written in English, or Chinese if agreed by the Department. The Department boasts a robust, diverse faculty, all of whom have overseas academic experience and some earned their doctorate abroad. All are regular faculty at ECNU and will therefore be available to form strong mentorships as they teach, advise, direct student research, and help graduates embark on post-graduate opportunities.

The Master’s program requires 3 years of study beyond the bachelor’s degree. To follow the academic tradition of China, courses of the program are divided into several parts including the common required course, basic course for the degree, advanced course for the degree (mandatory and selective). They cover literature, culture and aesthetics both Chinese and foreign.

The available courses are listed below, but students will get an updated version after being admitted and registered. Main courses are taught in English, but those to be shared with Chinese students are taught in Chinese. Students with high level of Chinese language are also encouraged to take courses in Chinese.