21 Jun 2006

Launch of The Institute for Chinese Studies and Degree Course in Chinese Studies at UCC



The President of UCC, Professor Gerard T. Wrixon today (21 June 2006) announced the formal establishment of the National Institute of Chinese Studies. The Institute is a joint initiative between UCC and UCD. Professor Fan Hong has been appointed Director of the Institute at UCC.

The Institute will offer Chinese Studies as one of the range of subjects of the BA degree in the College of Arts, Celtic Studies and Social Sciences. The option will be offered to students registering for the BA degree in September 2006.  It is a response to the growing demand for graduates with an understanding of modern China.

Speaking at the launch, Professor Wrixon said "This important development means that, for the first time, students at UCC will have the opportunity of undertaking a programme of study about China, the emerging world economic superpower." If students wish to avail of this option, they should apply to the CAO for CK101 before the change of mind deadline on 1st July 2006.

The Institute will promote research on projects related to China. It intends to establish a first class research team consisting of existing researchers, associates, fellows, and post-doctorate and doctorate students."

The BA in Chinese Studies will be a four-year programme. Students will study in UCC for three years and in China for one year. The first year modules include the study of the Chinese language and an introduction to Chinese society and culture. These modules continue in subsequent years along with others including contemporary Chinese history; literature, media; business law and practice; the environment and sustainable development; politics, policies and Chinese patterns of governance; and China, Europe and globalisation.

The Institute will establish close relationships with organisations that have special interests in China and provide consultancy for business, government and academic institutions. It will promote mutual understanding and respect between the Irish and the Chinese and will produce future Irish entrepreneurs, politicians, diplomats, and educators with expertise on China.

For further inquiries about Chinese Studies at UCC, or the Institute's research interests and consultancy, please contact Professor Fan Hong (F.Hong@ucc.ie) or the office of College of Arts, Celtic Studies and Social Sciences at UCC (ArtsFaculty@arts.ucc.ie)

249MMcS


« Back to 2006 Press Releases