Master of Arts in Sinology
Specialise in Chinese literature, culture, language, and history with advanced research training at a leading European university.
Best for:Best for graduates with a Bachelor’s in Sinology, Chinese Studies, or related humanities disciplines seeking rigorous training in Chinese language, literature, and interdisciplinary research.
Overview
The Master of Arts in Sinology at Universität Zürich offers advanced study in Chinese literature, culture, language, and history. This programme builds on a Bachelor’s foundation, enabling students to specialise in areas such as modern and classical Chinese texts, cultural analysis, or historical research. Graduates develop expertise in Chinese and international academic languages, critical source analysis, and cross-cultural communication. The curriculum emphasises independent scholarly work, preparing students for careers in academia, cultural diplomacy, or regional expertise. Located in Zürich, the programme leverages Switzerland’s central role in European-Chinese academic and economic exchange.
What you'll do
- Conduct independent research in specialised fields of Chinese literature, culture, or history.
- Develop advanced proficiency in spoken and written Chinese (modern and classical).
- Analyse primary sources in Chinese and international academic languages with critical contextualisation.
- Engage in interdisciplinary scholarly work, integrating Chinese and European research perspectives.
- Present and communicate complex research findings in German, Chinese, and English.
- Collaborate with faculty and peers on cultural and academic projects related to China.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor of Arts in Sinology, Chinese Studies, or a related humanities discipline
Degree offered: Master of Arts (MA)
Language: German (for instruction and communication); advanced proficiency in Chinese (spoken and written)
Instruction: German, Chinese, and English
- Advanced proficiency in spoken and written Chinese (modern and classical)
- Familiarity with primary sources in Chinese literature and history
- Research skills in academic languages (Chinese, English, German)
- Ability to critically contextualise information related to China
- Strong analytical and communication skills in German, Chinese, and English
- Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Sinology, Chinese Studies, or a closely related field
- No specific nationality or residency restrictions mentioned
- No age or prior experience caps specified
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
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How to apply
Applicants must submit their application through the official Universität Zürich portal. Required documents typically include a CV, Bachelor’s transcripts, proof of language proficiency (German and Chinese), a research proposal, and letters of recommendation. Detailed instructions are available on the programme’s application page.
- CV
- Bachelor’s degree transcripts
- Proof of German language proficiency
- Proof of Chinese language proficiency (spoken and written)
- Research proposal or statement of purpose
- Two or three letters of recommendation
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