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China Studies

Semester in China (Beijing, China)
Offered in the fall semester

Application deadlines
March 15

Webster University partners with the prestigious Beijing Language and Culture University to provide an English-language Semester in China each fall in the exciting capital of the People's Republic of China. This study abroad program includes instruction in Mandarin and a variety of activities that will help students better understand Chinese culture. Participants will long remember tours of the city of Beijing and the Great Wall, and the thrill of attending acrobatic and kung ful performances. Mandarin proficiency is not necessary for this fascinating introduction to China.

Who it is for
Students with an interest in Asian or Chinese culture. All levels of Mandarin proficiency are welcome. Please check with your academic advisor regarding academic requirements the program fulfills.

China Studies Courses (15 Credit hours total)
Students will enroll in all of the courses below.

ANSO 2000 Topics in Contemporary Society: Chinese Ways
(3 credit hours)
An intensive introduction to China designed to equip students with practical and academic approaches to understanding their new environment. By examining Chinese culture inside and outside the classroom, students will gain cultural and academic competency applicable to everyday life in China , at home and elsewhere in the world. Drawing on the fields of cultural anthropology, cross-cultural communication, and international studies, this course will provide the foundation for an intellectually and personally rewarding sojourn in Shanghai . Students will learn about current customs; holidays and festivals; and popular art and culture in Shanghai.

ILC 1090 Elementary Mandarin (3 credit hours)
Develops listening comprehension and speaking skills in Chinese. Will rely on Pin Yin, the alphabetized treatment of Chinese, for written skills. Advanced Chinese language courses are available for students with prior Mandarin proficiency.

HIST 2400 Modern Asia: China (3 credit hours)
Studies the cultures and the political-social development of China, from the fall of the Qing (Manchu) Dynasty in 1911 to the present day. This history course draws from social sciences and humanities to introduce the student to the basic forms of Chinese traditional culture, the process of change, both external and internal, through which those forms have undergone in the modern period, and the general nature of Chinese civilization as it is today. Through planned excursions students will come away with a better understanding of China's distinctive characteristics.

GNST 1400 Civilization and the Arts (3 credit hours)
This interdisciplinary study in history and the humanities focuses on the city of Beijing in both a historical and cultural context. Students will examine Chinese art and architecture, philosophy, literature, politics, music, and theatre to deepen the student's understanding of civilization, human values, and individual creativeness.

ANSO 1090 Geography: Economic and Cultural Issues of Asia
(3 credit hours)
Explores the relationship between China and other areas of Asia and the Pacific, including Korea, Japan, and the Philippines. Students will study major key cities and regions, relationships with Mainland China, and issues important to both Chinese people and leaders of Western business.

Additional Courses
Students with advanced Chinese proficiency may elect to take courses offered regularly at Beijing Language and Culture University.

Cost
Webster tuition ($10,884 per semester for 2010-11); nonrefundable program fee, $500; housing, $2,300 (double occupancy, paid in China; housing fee that includes utilities and Internet access, $1,200; note that students will need to provide towels, bed sheets, and blankets). Check with the Study Abroad office for up-to-date cost information. Living expenses are estimated at $1,700 per semester. Included are meals, $800; local transportation and activities, $700; and books, $200. Not included in costs: round-trip airfare, personal expenses, and optional field trips. Webster University students may be eligible for free airfare through the World Traveler Program. A visa also is necessary ($130).

Payment methods
The study abroad fee and tuition costs will be added to a Webster student’s account. Students from affiliate (WINS) institutions will be billed tuition at their home institutions.

Housing
Students will stay at the Beijing Language and Culture University International Students House.

Health Insurance
At no additional cost, Webster University provides basic accident and sickness insurance to program participants. The policy covers students throughout the world arranged through HTH Worldwide Health Services. Students should not cancel their existing policies in lieu of this coverage. For more information, visit www.hthstudents.com.

International Student Identification Card
Webster University provides each student with a free personal International Student Identification Card (ISIC), which will serve as your worldwide student ID. The ISIC also allows you to book discounted student airfare; receive discounts around the world for museums, exhibits, etc.; and access a 24-hour toll-free help-line.

For more information
Dr. Jih-Un Kim
Assistant Professor in Department of History, Politics & International Relations
E-mail: kimjih@webster.edu

Other helpful sites
• Webster University's Study Abroad office
World Traveler Program for Webster students
Passports and visas
Webster International Network Schools (WINS) information


 
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