Program Overview
What is a Chinese studies degree?
The growing influence of China cannot be ignored by anyone in pursuit of a complete understanding of the world, especially those seeking a well-rounded education and postgraduate success in an increasingly diverse and pluralistic society. Graduates with a Chinese studies degree will be prepared to engage with the people, ideas and issues that shape one of the world’s most dynamic regions.
Why study Chinese studies at Furman?
The Chinese studies program at Furman will take you beyond the traditional classroom experience. We offer undergraduates a wealth of opportunities for hands-on research, internships and study of the country’s diverse societies. And you’ll benefit from the small class sizes and mentoring opportunities within a private liberal arts and sciences university environment. You won’t just study a culture, language or religion in our program – you’ll study it all.
How will you learn?
Through the Chinese studies program at Furman, you will explore a curriculum made up of a broad range of courses and a strong liberal arts and sciences foundation. Conduct internships and field and text-based research. Study abroad in China or collaborate with a Chinese studies faculty member conducting research over the summer or during the academic year. And experience a diversity of aspects of Asia without leaving campus in our modern language center, language houses, reading room and authentic Japanese temple.

Careers for Chinese studies majors
Many B.A. recipients go on to further studies, including postgraduate programs and training in Asian languages.
The Furman Chinese studies department can help prepare you for a variety of careers in this increasingly prominent field, including:
- International business and trade
- Education
- Law
- Government and politics
- Intelligence work
- Media
Featured Chinese studies courses
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94%Placement rate six months after graduation (employed or in graduate school)
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No. 6U.S. News and World Report rank among national liberal arts colleges in the Southeast
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9:1Student to faculty ratio
Our faculty




Katherine "Kate" Kaup 白荷婷



Dongming Zhang
Many B.A. recipients go on to further studies, including postgraduate programs and training in Asian languages. Many Chinese studies graduates have found success in law, the U.S. Foreign Service or other government fieds, such as intelligence work, international finance and marketing.
The Furman Asian studies department can help prepare you for a variety of careers in this increasingly vital field, including international finance, translating, journalism, public health, law, diplomacy and government service, public policy, international development and social work.
The average annual pay for graduates with an undergraduate degree in Asian studies is $57,299, according to ZipRecruiter. While salaries can range as high as $121,000, the majority of majors earn between $38,500 and $66,500, with top earners making $94,000 or more annually.
Furman’s Chinese studies B.A. program is typically a four-year program.