Introduction to the Major
The Chinese Language major(link is external) focuses on the humanistic investigation of major East Asian traditions by teaching students the modern and classical forms of the language; reading texts in their historical and cultural contexts; and introducing students to the vast array of literary, artistic, philosophical, and cultural traditions of East Asia and their transformations in modernity.
UC Berkeley is a world-renowned center for the study of East Asian Humanities. Whether you want to master Chinese, immerse yourself in the literary and cultural traditions of East Asia, absorb the profound insights of its philosophical and poetic texts, or come to a deeper understanding of the modern and contemporary histories and media cultures of this complex and vital region, East Asian Languages and Cultures department (EALC) has something for you.
Additional Options
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If you are interested in the language or culture but choose not to major in Chinese, ask about our minors(link is external) in Buddhist Studies, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Tibetan.
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If you are interested in the Chinese language and wish to focus on religion and philosophy, consider the East Asian Religion, Thought and Culture major(link is external).
Amplify Your Major
- Visit the Institute of East Asian Studies(link is external), the C.V. Starr East Asian Library(link is external), and other Friends+Partners(link is external) of EALC.
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Get support to further your studies in Chinese culture and history by applying to The Anne H. Scott Memorial Undergraduate Scholarship in Chinese Studies(link is external).
Jobs and Employers
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Career in Corporate Environment
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English Teacher
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Import/Export Business
Graduate Programs
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Business School
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Law School
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MA in Asian Studies
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PhD in Buddhist Studies
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PhD in Chinese
Examples gathered from the First Destination Survey(link is external) of recent Berkeley graduates.
Connect With Us
Cal Day
Come to Berkeley’s annual Open House(link is external) in April for information sessions, campus tours, special talks, and more.
Golden Bear Orientation
Join your peers in the campus-wide UC Berkeley orientation(link is external) program for all new students.
Events
Attend department events with students, staff, and faculty. Visit ealc.berkeley.edu(link is external) for news and updates.
Advising
Students can drop in to 3413 Dwinelle Hall to speak with an advisor, call (510) 642-3480, or email questions to ealc-advising@berkeley.edu(link sends e-mail)
Advising Drop-In Hours
Monday-Friday, 9am-12pm, 1-4pm
How to Use this Map
Use this map to help plan and guide your experience at UC Berkeley, including academic, co-curricular, and discovery opportunities. Everyone’s Berkeley experience is different and activities in this map are suggestions. Always consult with your advisors whenever possible for new opportunities and updates.
