An interdisciplinary curriculum

Students will take courses in humanities and social sciences to develop broad-based knowledge of China with a global perspective, complemented by methodology courses that equip majors with the necessary tools for conducting research.

Balance between structure and flexibility

While the required and restricted elective courses allow students to explore social and cultural issues from different perspectives, GCS majors can deepen their inquiry through a focused track of study:

• Integrated Humanities and Social Science Track
• Social Science Track

 
Students are also able to use free elective credits for declaring a minor (e.g. in Business; Psychological and Behavioral Science; and Sustainability).

Inquiry-driven pedagogy

To demonstrate the knowledge and research skills that they have acquired, in their final year majors are required to complete a capstone project or an honors thesis under the guidance of a faculty member. Past projects cover a wide variety of topics including Cantonese opera, self-censorship, social media, gender stereotypes, foreign domestic helpers, special education needs, dating apps, slangs, generation gaps, Zhuzism, identity politics, etc.
 
Students will also have opportunities to work with faculty members on research projects in areas relating to heritage, paintings, educated elites, human emotion, social media, investment in Africa, internet finance, etc.

Solid language training

Apart from the language courses required by the University’s common core education, GCS majors receive more advanced training in both English and Chinese to enhance their oral and written communication skills.

Co-curricular learning experiences

Students can enrich their learning experience through different co-curricular programs.