The BA (Hons) in Sinology at UWTSD offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of Chinese culture, history, and society. This course is designed for students interested in understanding the complexities of Chinese politics and the deep-rooted traditions that shape modern China. Alongside this degree, you can also pursue a Diploma of Higher Education in Sinology, a Certificate of Higher Education in Sinology, or a Foundation Certificate in Sinology.
At UWTSD, you will study within a supportive environment that embraces diverse ideas and cultures. The Chinese language is at the heart of the programme, allowing you to develop skills in reading and interpreting ancient texts, as well as mastering Classical Chinese. This language focus provides a foundation for deeper engagement with the various aspects of Chinese thought and philosophy.
The programme encourages critical thinking and exploration of fundamental questions about life, faith, and spirituality. This approach means that you will not only learn about Chinese studies but also engage with wider issues that are relevant across cultures. The university promotes an atmosphere where students can discuss and evaluate different beliefs, making it an ideal place for those interested in multi-faith and multi-cultural perspectives.
As you progress through your studies, you will gain advanced knowledge of ancient Chinese texts, language, and culture. This will help you develop a strong understanding of the moral codes and social practices that have influenced Chinese society throughout history. By studying these elements, you will not only enhance your academic skills but also contribute to your personal growth and spiritual journey.
The programme aims to prepare you for various career paths, including teaching and research. You will acquire high-level skills in translation and interpretation, equipping you to become an expert in Sinology. Furthermore, you will engage in practical applications that contribute to preserving the rich heritage of the Chinese language and culture.
In summary, the BA (Hons) in Sinology at UWTSD is an engaging and academically rigorous programme that opens doors to understanding China’s complex past and present. It invites students to explore the depth of Chinese studies, enriching their knowledge while preparing them for meaningful contributions to interfaith and intercultural dialogue. By studying here, you will be part of a long-standing tradition of learning that values diversity and encourages the pursuit of knowledge.
Course details
- On-campus
- Full-time
- English
Undergraduate Fees
Home (Full-time): £9,535 per year
Overseas (Full-time): £15,525 per year
Why choose this course?
What you will learn
At UWTSD, our philosophy of learning and teaching emphasises critical thinking and open dialogue. Students will engage deeply with ancient Chinese texts and languages, fostering a rich understanding of Chinese culture, society, and politics. Our supportive environment encourages exploration and respectful discussion of diverse ideas and beliefs.
In your first year, you will explore fundamental concepts in Chinese culture and ethics through modules such as Traditional Chinese Morality and Ethics in Education and The Four Books. You will also develop foundational skills in reading Chinese language texts and studying Sinograms, laying the groundwork for deeper linguistic and cultural understanding.
(20 credits)
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(30 credits)
(30 credits)
The second year focuses on expanding your knowledge and skills in Chinese studies. You will delve into Daoist literature, phonology, and cultural discourses, while furthering your understanding of morality through Traditional Chinese Morality and Ethics in Education II. This year will enhance your translation abilities and deepen your appreciation for ancient texts, including The Daodejing.
(20 credits)
(20 credits)
(20 credits)
(30 credits)
(20 credits)
(30 credits)
In your final year, you will synthesise your learning through advanced studies in Sinology. Modules will include exegesis, the Canon of Change, and translation of Confucian and Buddhist literature. You will also undertake a dissertation project, allowing you to explore a specific area of interest in-depth, contributing to your academic and personal growth in Chinese studies.
(20 credits)
(20 credits)
(20 credits)
(20 credits)
(40 credits)
(20 credits)
testimonial
Staff
Our People
You will be taught and supported by a wide range of professional staff and teams here to help you get the university experience you are looking for. Our teaching staff were ranked 2nd in Wales for Teaching, Assessment and Feedback and Academic Support (NSS 2024) meaning that the support and feedback you get will help you learn and develop strong academic skills. Our students have placed us 1st in Wales for Learning Opportunities and Student Voice (NSS 2024) meaning that there are a wide range of opportunities available to enhance your studies and that students play an active role in shaping their learning experiences. Our commitment to your learning has seen our students place us as 1st in Wales and joint 3rd in the UK for student satisfaction (Times Higher Education, 2024, ‘Overall Positivity’ measure). Find out more about our academic staff who teach across our courses.
Further information
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96-112 UCAS Tariff Points - e.g. A-levels: CCC-BBC, BTEC: MMM-DMM, IB: 30-32
The UCAS tariff score is applicable to you if you have recently studied a qualification that has a UCAS tariff equivalence. UCAS provides a  for you to work out what your qualification is worth within the UCAS tariff. â¶Ä¯&²Ô²ú²õ±è;
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GCSE grade A*-C (grade 9-4 in England) in English and Mathematics is also required. â¶Ä¯&²Ô²ú²õ±è;
Alternative entry routes  &²Ô²ú²õ±è;
If this course interests you, but you don’t have the entry requirements to join our bachelor’s degree you could consider: â¶Ä¯&²Ô²ú²õ±è;-
‘with Foundation Year’. This route is designed to give you extra support as it provides you with an additional year (full-time) of supported study. â¶Ä¯â€¯&²Ô²ú²õ±è;
Once you successfully complete your Foundation Year studies, you will automatically advance onto the main degree. â¶Ä¯â€¯&²Ô²ú²õ±è;
These are ideal routes if you are returning to study after a gap, or if you have not previously studied this subject, or if you did not achieve the grades you need for a place on this degree. â¶Ä¯â€¯&²Ô²ú²õ±è;
Admissions Advice and Support  &²Ô²ú²õ±è;
We may make you a lower offer based on a range of factors, such as your background, experiences and individual circumstances. This is known as ‘Contextual Admissions’. For specific advice and support you can contact our enquiries team for more information about entry requirements. â¶Ä¯&²Ô²ú²õ±è;
English language requirements  &²Ô²ú²õ±è;
If English is not your first language or you have not previously studied in English, our usual requirement is the equivalent of an International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic Test) score of 6.0, with not less than 5.5 in each of the sub-tests. We also accept other English language tests. â¶Ä¯&²Ô²ú²õ±è;
Visit the International Applications section of our website to find out more about our English Language Requirements and pre-sessional English Language Courses. &²Ô²ú²õ±è;
Visa and funding requirements  &²Ô²ú²õ±è;
If you are not from the UK and you do not already have residency here, you may need to apply for a visa. â¶Ä¯&²Ô²ú²õ±è;
For courses of more than six months’ duration you will require a Student visa. â¶Ä¯&²Ô²ú²õ±è;
International students who require a Student visa should apply for our full-time courses as these qualify for Student visa sponsorship. â¶Ä¯â€¯&²Ô²ú²õ±è;
For full information read our visa application and guides. â¶Ä¯â€¯â¶Ä¯&²Ô²ú²õ±è;
 Please note students receiving US Federal Aid are only able to apply for in-person, on-campus programmes which will have no elements of online study.
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We are continuously reviewing our Welsh medium provision, the precise availability of modules will vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand. Where your course offers modules available through the medium of Welsh this may vary from year to year, and will be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved. This means the availability of specific Welsh medium modules cannot be guaranteed. â¶Ä¯
Extracurricular Welsh Opportunities There are many ways to engage with Welsh culture and life at UWTSD, including joining clubs and societies for Welsh speakers and becoming a member of our vibrant Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol branch. â¶Ä¯&²Ô²ú²õ±è;
Opportunities to Learn Welsh 
We also provide a variety of opportunities to learn and develop your Welsh language skills. â¶Ä¯â€¯&²Ô²ú²õ±è;
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The programme’s assessment strategy consists of formative and summative assessments. Formative assessments aim to use the form of ‘spiral assessment’, encouraging students to revisit and implement standards that have been covered in previous modules.
Spiral assessment is further supported by the fact that all modules centre on critical engagement with canonical texts. Skills developed in earlier modules will be practised and honed in later modules.
Most modules include a practical assessment, that is a presentation in English. The aim of the presentation is to ensure continuous development of English language skills among the cohort, but also to ensure that students are being assessed in situations that are likely to resemble their later employment situation as teachers of Chinese culture.