Graduate Certificate in Chinese Studies at Simon Fraser University (SFU) - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-12-03

Program overview

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Program overview

This Graduate Certificate in Chinese Studies is designed for students who wish to enhance their language skills and cultural understanding of the Chinese language and society. The program provides language courses that reach up to the intermediate level, establishing a robust foundation in all aspects of Mandarin Chinese. Students will also develop communicative competencies applicable in everyday situations. Additionally, the program offers a diverse range of elective courses across various departments and faculties, allowing students to explore and deepen their interests in topics related to China.

Program structure

The Graduate Certificate in Chinese Studies has a structured program that ensures students gain a comprehensive understanding of the Chinese language and culture. The program is designed to be completed in a minimum of 18 units, which includes:

Three required core courses, totaling nine units.
Elective courses selected from a variety of options, also totaling nine units.

Students are required to complete at least two-thirds of the total units (equivalent to 12 units) at Simon Fraser University. This structure allows for a balanced approach between core language skills and elective topics that cater to individual interests.

Featured Experiences

The program includes opportunities for students to engage in elective courses that cover a wide range of topics related to China.
Students can participate in various cultural activities and events that enhance their understanding of Chinese society.
There may be options for collaborative projects or partnerships with other departments, enriching the learning experience.

Career Options

Language Instructor: Teach Mandarin Chinese at various educational institutions, helping students develop their language skills.
Cultural Consultant: Provide insights and guidance on Chinese culture for businesses looking to engage with Chinese markets.
International Relations Specialist: Work with government agencies or NGOs to foster relationships between Canada and China.
Translation and Interpretation: Translate documents or interpret conversations between Mandarin and English speakers in various settings.
Research Analyst: Conduct research on Chinese society, culture, and language for academic institutions or think tanks.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit Simon Fraser University (SFU) official website

Last updated on 2025-12-03

Program overview

Academic Requirements

For the Graduate Certificate in Chinese Studies program, the following academic requirements must be met:

There is no specified minimum GPA mentioned for this program.
International students, including those from Vietnam and other Asian countries, must submit a transcript that includes interim marks for their senior year. Admission is calculated based on senior-level academic subjects.
Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

While specific prerequisite courses for the Graduate Certificate in Chinese Studies are not detailed, it is advisable for applicants to check the faculty or program-specific requirements to ensure they meet all necessary criteria.

If you have any questions or need further clarification regarding the application process or requirements, please feel free to contact LOA Portal's advisors for support and guidance.

Language Requirements

English is the language of instruction at Simon Fraser University (SFU). All applicants, regardless of their country of origin or citizenship status, must demonstrate competence in the English language prior to admission. This competence is required in all four skills: listening, reading, speaking, and writing.

As an applicant to the Graduate Certificate in Chinese Studies program, you must demonstrate English language competence through one of the following options:

International English Language Testing System (IELTS - Academic)
IELTS One Skill Retake results are not accepted.

Minimum score: Overall 6.5 with no part less than 6.0
Cambridge English Qualifications
Any one of:
- B2 First
- C1 Advanced
- C2 Proficiency
Minimum score: Overall score 176 with no part less than 169
Test of English as a Foreign Language internet based test (TOEFL iBT)
Scores must be achieved in a single test. TOEFL MyBest (super-scored) or TOEFL Essentials results will not be used. TOEFL iBT Home is accepted.

Minimum score: Overall score 88 with no part less than 20
Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL)
Minimum score: Overall score of 70, with no part less than 60
Pearson Test of English (PTE)
Minimum score: Overall score of 65, and a minimum score of 60 in the Communicative Skills, including: Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing
Duolingo English Test (DET)
Only accepted from students in countries where no other English proficiency test is available.

Minimum score: Overall score of 125

Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!