China has remained the fastest growing economy in the world for the past 20 years. New Zealand needs people who have knowledge and skills in the Chinese language, culture and business etiquette to develop and build cultural and commercial links with the Chinese-speaking countries. The Chinese Studies major enables you to explore Chinese culture, values and society as well as providing the essentials of Chinese language to communicate effectively in everyday situations. It is an ideal major to take alongside other majors, for example business, hospitality and tourism, social sciences, translation or interpreting. Graduates also gain knowledge of the Chinese society, culture and business etiquette, and will be able to interact appropriately with Chinese speakers in a variety of situations, including the workplace. The programme is designed in close consultation with major private and public employers who identify the skills they need in their industries. Students have the opportunity to complete a research paper on an area of particular interest, which could link in with a theme from their other major.

Career opportunities Because this major can be taken alongside another major to create a degree with a double major, graduates can choose from a wide range of careers. With the language and intercultural competence gained from the Chinese Studies major graduates will be in demand in New Zealand's increasingly multicultural workplaces. Communications, information technology and research skills are also taught in the core papers of the programme, so that graduates are able to maintain relevancy to the changing world.