The MA Chinese Studies provides an exceptional opportunity to take advantage of the wide range of disciplinary approaches to the study of Chinese societies available at SOAS. The main emphasis is on modern and contemporary China, although it is also possible to study aspects of pre-Modern China. Students who take this degree come from many countries and have a wide variety of academic backgrounds. While some wish to broaden their previous studies or experience of China, others approach the course without having a Chinese element to their first degree, but with a desire to focus their previous training on the region. Knowledge of the Chinese language is not a requirement of the programme, although language modules are popular among students. SOAS is home to its own China Institute , a leading centre for international China expertise. Students are welcome to attend the regular seminars held by the Institute, where international speakers present their research engaging with diverse aspects in the study of China. You can view all the intensive language options available in the combined courses tool below. SOAS is ranked 12th in the UK and top 70 in the world for Modern Languages (QS World University Rankings 2026) SOAS is ranked 7th in the UK for Asian Studies (Complete University Guide 2026) We are home to the largest concentration of Chinese specialists outside of China All postgraduate students can take part in our Study Tours and explore the world. Destinations include New Delhi, Lahore, Seoul, Luang Prabang, Almaty, Bishkek, Kigali, Johannesburg, and Doha.