FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1.

What is the Minor Programme in China Studies about?

The aim of the MPCS is to provide students with a basic understanding of Chinese culture, history, society, politics, and economy which would complement their major courses of study and prepare them for a career in or relating to China.

2.

I would like to know whether or not the China Studies Minor will help my future career?

Whether or not a minor will enhance your degree depends on your prospective employer and the relevance of the minor to your future career. It is all relative and how it is viewed will differ from organization to organization. However, as you are aware, China is one of the most dynamic economies in the world. The Financial Times stated in one of its September 2003 headlines: “Europe was the past, US is the present, and a China-dominated Asia the future of the global economy.” While there is no guarantee that a Minor in China Studies would land you a job, it would certainly be a useful supplement to your respective major if you intend to pursue a career in or related to China.

3.

I am a student majoring in Chinese Studies or Chinese Language, can I read the China Studies Minor as well?

Yes, the China Studies Minor is open to ALL undergraduate students at NUS.

4.

I understand that I can choose one Chinese language module offered by the Centre for Language Studies and have to go through a placement test if I already have some Chinese language background. May I know how I can take this placement test?

Please check with the Centre for Language Studies (CLS) on the dates for the placement test. The test dates are posted on their website here under "What's New" and also on the notice boards at the Centre. The tests are usually held after the exams of the current semester before the module registration period for the next semester. Registration for placement tests is not needed and outcome of results will be posted at the same URL link above about 3 days after the test. Students will be informed of the module that they are eligible to read. Upon receipt of the outcome, students who want to register for the higher level module will have to request for waiver of the pre-requisite and submit copies of "PSLE" and "O" level or equivalent certificates to CLS. When the pre-requisites are waived for the student by CLS, the student can bid for the module online.