Undergraduate Program
Chinese Language
Universitas Sumatera Utara
The Undergraduate Program in Chinese Language of Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU) was established in 2007. Over the years, this study program has successfully produced outstanding students and highly competent Chinese language experts spread across various regions in Indonesia. This study program's main focus is the in-depth study of Mandarin, including the study of Chinese language, literature, and culture. Students will be taught all aspects of the Chinese language, from word structure, correct pronunciation, grammar, etc. Supported by teaching staff who are experts and certified in Chinese language teaching nationwide as well as the use of an integrated curriculum, we are committed to providing our students with an interactive education and learning experience.
Our main goal is for students to become the best competent individuals in the Chinese literature field, ready to compete nationally and internationally. Graduates of our study program have a wide range of career opportunities, from becoming translators, journalists, and professionals in the human resources field to the field of public relations.
Visit Study Program PageNeed more information? visit the faculty website, or contact us via e-mail.
mandarin@usu.ac.idUndergraduate Program in Chinese Language
Accredited B
No. 1743/SK/BAN-PT/Ak-PPJ/S/III/2022
Vision of Undergraduate Program in Chinese Language
By 2025, the Chinese Language Study Program of FIB USU will become a leading and prominent institution for the study of Chinese language, literature, and culture in Indonesia and Southeast Asia.
Mission of Undergraduate Program in Chinese Language
Academic Atmosphere
To create and implement a conducive academic environment, both internally and externally, for the education and teaching of Chinese language, literature, and culture that is planned, integrated, and oriented on the development of the quality of graduates capable of competing at the national and international levels.
Research
To conduct quality research and development in the fields of Chinese language, literature, and culture, which will be published in accredited national journals and reputable international journals as well as widely disseminated to stakeholders.
Publications
To develop and conduct quality interdisciplinary research in the fields of Chinese language, literature, and culture that encourage advancements in education, science, technology, social, economic, artistic, and cultural aspects that strengthen the identity of plurality, as well as will be published in nationally and internationally standardized journals and widely disseminated to stakeholders.
Community Service
To establish cooperation and engage in community service with businesses as well as government and private institutions on a national or international scale in the fields of Chinese language, literature, and culture to contribute to the welfare of society.
Competent Graduates
To prepare graduates who are knowledgeable and competent in Chinese language, literature, and culture, including its diversity, and who possess character, ethics, innovation, honesty, leadership qualities, and a sense of social responsibility towards societal issues.
Concentration
Concentration is a field of specialization that can be chosen by students to deepen specific knowledge and skills in the study program they take. By choosing a concentration that suits their interests and talents, students can develop more in-depth competencies that are relevant to the needs of the job market. Concentration also helps students to explore specific fields that are of interest and passion to them, thus expanding their horizons and enriching their learning experience.
Grammar
Grammar in the Chinese Language program focuses on the study of the structure, rules, and patterns of the Chinese language. Through an in-depth understanding of grammar, students learn the key elements such as phonology, morphology, syntax, and semantics that make up the Chinese language. It also covers the proper use of grammar in various communicative contexts, such as formal, informal, written, and spoken language. Students learn the standard rules of speaking and writing in Chinese. Skills in Chinese grammar are essential in understanding, speaking, reading, and writing the language well. Students who understand grammar well can communicate their messages effectively and avoid language misunderstandings. By mastering grammar, students become more efficient and skillful communicators in Chinese.
Listening
Listening in the Chinese Language study program focuses on developing listening skills and understanding Chinese effectively. Students learn techniques to understand conversations, discourses, and audio in Chinese well, both in formal and informal contexts. The study of "Listening" includes the recognition of vocabulary, proper pronunciation, intonation, and the meaning of each phrase or sentence in various contexts. Students understand the variety of Chinese used in everyday situations, such as conversations in schools, workplaces, markets, and so on. One of the main objectives is to improve students' ability to identify important information, capture the main idea, and understand the purpose of a conversation or audio material. This can include listening to speeches, interviews, lectures, or even songs in Chinese. The importance of listening skills in Chinese language learning is to enable students to interact and communicate fluently in various social and professional contexts. During the learning process, students will become familiar with various Chinese accents and dialects which helps broaden their understanding of language variation.
HSK preparation
HSK preparation in the Chinese language study program focuses on preparing students for the HSK (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi) exam, which is an internationally recognized Chinese language proficiency test. This exam examines a person's ability to read, write, and speak Chinese. Studies in this discipline group cover the various aspects tested in the HSK exam. Students will learn Chinese language structure and grammar, commonly used vocabulary, reading and comprehension techniques, and writing skills, as well as practice daily conversation. In addition to the exam material, students will also be exposed to practice HSK questions that are appropriate for the level of the exam they want to achieve. They will hone their skills in answering HSK-specific questions and learn strategies to optimize their exam results. The primary goal is to ensure that students are prepared and confident for the HSK exam. Passing this exam is an important milestone in Chinese language learning, as it officially validates a student's Chinese language skills and opens up opportunities for study or careers in Chinese-speaking countries, as well as access to various scholarships and academic opportunities.
Mandarin script
Chinese script in the Chinese language study program focuses on understanding, reading, and writing Hanzi script, which is the characteristic writing system of the Chinese language. Hanzi characters are complex symbols that represent words or phrases in Chinese and are an integral part of the Chinese language and culture. Studies in this discipline group include learning the basic structure and meaning of the Hanzi script, reading correctly, recognizing writing patterns, and deciphering the meaning of characters or combinations of characters in specific contexts. Students will also understand the relationship between Hanzi characters and the pronunciation of Chinese words. The learning process includes practicing writing Hanzi characters correctly, understanding how to form characters, and developing skills in reading and interpreting texts using Hanzi characters. In addition, students will also learn about character etymology, i.e. the history and development of character and its relation to word meaning. The main objective is to ensure that students have an in-depth understanding of the Hanzi script system, are able to read and write correctly, and can apply this knowledge in reading Chinese texts thoroughly.
Phonology
Phonology in the Chinese language study program focuses on the study of the sounds or phonemes used in Chinese. Phonology addresses the structure of sounds, intonation patterns, and the way phonemes are organized and used in Chinese. Understanding phonology is an important key to speaking, listening, reading, and writing correctly in Chinese. Studies in this discipline include the introduction and analysis of Chinese sounds, such as consonants, vowels, tones, and intonation. Students learn how these sounds are produced, how they affect the meaning of words, as well as the intonation patterns that can differentiate the meaning of a sentence. Understanding proper intonation and pronunciation is key to effective communication in Chinese. Students also understand dialectal variations in Chinese and the phonological differences that may occur. They learn how factors such as accent, stress, and duration affect meaning and significance in spoken communication. The main goal of this discipline group is to ensure that students have an in-depth understanding of the phonological system of Chinese. Mastery of phonology will help students build better communication skills and enable them to use Chinese effectively, especially in daily conversation.
Reading
Reading in the Chinese language study program focuses on developing the ability to read and understand Chinese texts. Reading is a key skill in understanding and using language effectively, as well as opening doors to further cultural understanding and knowledge. Studies in this discipline group include mastering the vocabulary, grammatical structures, and phrase patterns needed to understand diverse Chinese texts. Students will study different types of texts, ranging from news articles to literature, so as to develop good reading skills in various contexts. Reading Chinese texts helps students understand the social, cultural, and historical context of the language. This opens up new horizons in their understanding of Chinese society and the wider world. During their studies, students will practice effective reading techniques, such as predicting, searching for key information, and analyzing meaning from context. They will also understand how to identify meaning through Chinese characters and build their ability to cope with more complex texts over time.
Introduction to Chinese Literature
Introduction to Chinese Literature in the Chinese Language program introduces students to the rich and diverse range of Chinese literature. The study includes an understanding of the history, cultural context, literary genres, and prominent authors in the Chinese literary tradition. Students will be exposed to classic and contemporary works covering a wide range of genres, such as poetry, prose, and drama. They will study the literary techniques used, story structures, and language characteristics that distinguish Chinese literature. The importance of identifying themes, symbols, and messages contained in literary works will also be a key focus. In addition, students will learn about the evolution of Chinese literature over time, understanding the cultural, social, and historical influences that shaped the development of Chinese literature. This will help students relate literary works to social contexts and understand how changing times affect literary expression. Introduction to Chinese Literature also provides in-depth insights into important figures in Chinese literature and their famous works, including an analysis of their influence on Chinese literature and culture.
Chinese History
Chinese History in the Chinese Language program focuses on the study of Chinese history from prehistory to modern times. It provides an in-depth understanding of China's cultural, political, economic and social developments that underpin the country's rich historical heritage. Students will study key periods in Chinese history, such as the Shang, Zhou, Han, Tang, Ming, and Qing Dynasties, as well as key events such as the Cultural Revolution and the founding of the People's Republic of China. They will understand the role of historical figures, political ideologies, wars, and social changes that shaped China into the great country we know today. In addition, the group will discuss China's influence on a global scale, particularly its diplomatic, trade and cultural relations with other countries. Students will also understand the evolution of China's system of government and society, as well as its relationship with culture, morals, and traditional values. The emphasis is on identifying and analyzing key developments in Chinese history, seeking connections between the past and the present, and exploring how history shapes the identity and characteristics of modern China.
Mandarin Syntax
Chinese Syntax in the Chinese Language study program focuses on the structure, order, and relationship between words in Chinese sentences. Syntax is the study that reveals the rules and patterns that govern how words form sentences with clear meaning. Students study Chinese grammar from basic to advanced levels. They will understand sentence grammar, phrase structure, clauses, and other syntactic elements in Chinese. It also focuses on the role of words, phrases, and sentence construction in conveying messages appropriately and effectively. In the learning process, students will understand how sentence structure affects the meaning and nuance of communication. They will also learn the various syntactic constructions that make up complex and varied sentences in Chinese. It is important to understand Chinese syntax as it forms the basis for proper and effective expression in speaking, writing, reading, and listening. An in-depth knowledge of syntax helps students understand the complexity of Chinese sentences, including standard grammar and its variations that are essential for daily communication, literature, and science.
Chinese Society Institution
Chinese Society in the Chinese Language study program focuses on understanding and analyzing the social structure, culture, and traditions of Chinese society. This study explores the cultural, normative, and behavioral aspects of Chinese society related to language, beliefs, customs, and social interactions. Students study the institutions of Chinese society from various dimensions, such as family, socialization, economy, religion, and culture. They understand the value system, norms, social hierarchy, and interactions between members of the Chinese community. This study also discusses the influence of history, policy, and globalization on the institutions of Chinese society. The importance of understanding the institutions of Chinese society lies in the ability of students to adapt, communicate, and work within the social and cultural context of Chinese society. Students are also invited to appreciate and respect the diversity of cultures, ethics, and values that exist in Chinese society. In the learning process, students will explore various social and cultural aspects of Chinese society through teaching materials that include theory, case studies, and interactive discussions. They will analyze and respond to the dynamics of Chinese society and explore the role of the Chinese language in shaping identity and social interaction.
Hokkien Language
Hokkien in the Chinese Language study program focuses on learning and understanding Hokkien, an important dialect of Chinese that is widely spoken by ethnic Chinese communities in various parts of the world, especially in the Fujian region, Taiwan, Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia. Students in this group will study the structure, vocabulary, grammar, and phonology of Hokkien. They will be encouraged to recognize the differences and similarities between Hokkien and standard Mandarin as well as understand the cultural and historical context that shaped the development of Hokkien. The study of Hokkien opens the door to greater access in interacting with the Chinese community who use this dialect as their daily language. This allows students to communicate better, understand traditions, and build better relationships with people who use Hokkien. In addition, students will also understand the influence of Hokkien in the development of Chinese culture, trade, and migration history. They will analyze how this language affects the identity and diversity of Chinese communities around the world.
Chinese Arts and Crafts
Chinese Arts and Crafts in Chinese Studies program takes students on an in-depth exploration of the rich heritage of traditional Chinese arts and crafts. The main focus is on the knowledge of the history, techniques, and cultural meanings behind the diverse classical Chinese arts and crafts. Students will understand various traditional art forms, such as Chinese painting (Guohua), calligraphy, carving, batik, embroidery, and pottery. They will learn the specialized techniques, symbolism, and aesthetics that accompany each of these arts and crafts. The study will also guide students to understand the role of arts and crafts in Chinese society, both in historical and modern contexts. This includes an understanding of how arts and crafts depict daily life, cultural beliefs, and values upheld in Chinese culture. Students will be encouraged to analyze and appreciate classical arts and crafts, as well as understand the transition and evolution of Chinese arts and crafts in the contemporary era. Emphasis is also placed on how Chinese arts and crafts can inspire modern design and artistic expression today.
Business Mandarin
Business Chinese in the Chinese Language program prepares students to communicate effectively in a business context in an increasingly globally integrated Chinese-speaking world. The main focus is on understanding the business-specific terminology, cultural practices, and communication strategies required for success in the Chinese business environment. Students will learn vocabulary, phrases, and expressions used in everyday business transactions, negotiations, meetings, and presentations. In addition, they will explore language structures relevant to business contexts, such as official letters, reports, and other business documents. The study will also consider important cultural aspects of doing business with Chinese people, including business ethics, manners, and social norms that affect business relationships. Students will learn how to understand, respect, and adapt to Chinese business culture to build successful and mutually beneficial relationships. A practical approach is applied to learning, which includes simulated business situations, role plays, and case studies. Students will have the opportunity to practice directly through realistic business situations to improve their ability to communicate effectively in Chinese in a business context.
Semantics of Mandarin
Semantics of Chinese in the Chinese Language Studies program focuses on the study of the meaning and structure of the Chinese language, particularly the way words and sentences carry meaning. Students will study the components of meaning in Chinese, including concepts such as synonymy, antonymy, polysemy, hyponymy, hyperonymy, and other semantic relationships. They will explore the way words and phrases take on meaning based on context, word class, and grammar. This in-depth understanding of word classes, phrase structures, and semantic relationships helps students understand and use Chinese appropriately and meaningfully. In addition, the study also includes tracing the changes in the meaning of words over time and cultural context. This includes research on the evolution of the meaning of words and phrases over time, as well as how culture and social context affect the interpretation of meaning. Students will also study the analysis of meaning in the context of discourse, both oral and written. They will analyze text meaning, meaning structure, and how context leads to proper interpretation. These skills are important in understanding and correctly interpreting texts in various communication situations.
Drama and Cinema
Chinese Drama and Cinema in the Chinese Language program is an in-depth focus of study on Chinese performing arts and cinema. Students in this group will study the history, development, genres, production techniques, and aesthetics related to Chinese drama and cinema. The study of drama includes an in-depth understanding of Chinese theater traditions, such as Peking opera, Yue opera, Kunqu, and modern dramas. Students will understand the essential elements of Chinese drama, including character, plot, staging, and aesthetics underlying traditional and contemporary theater performances. Meanwhile, cinema studies address the history of Chinese cinema, from the silent era to modern film production. Students will understand the development of Chinese film, the various directions of cinematic genres, and the role of cinema in reflecting Chinese society and culture. This includes analyzing films in terms of story, visual techniques, and cultural interpretations embedded in the works. In addition, the group will also explore the cultural, social, and political roles of Chinese drama and cinema. This includes analyzing how dramas and films reflect the changing culture, societal structures, and political shifts in China over time. Students will be trained to analyze, critique, and appreciate works of Chinese drama and cinema. They will also learn to compose creative works in this field, be it a play script, a production plan, or an in-depth understanding of directing.
Chinese Poetry and Prose
Chinese Poetry and Prose in the Chinese Language program focuses on the in-depth study of Chinese literary works, both in poetry and prose. Students in this group will study the history, development, techniques, and aesthetics relating to Chinese poetry and prose. The study of poetry includes an in-depth understanding of classical and modern works of Chinese poetry literature. Students will understand the different types of Chinese poetry, poetic structures, word processing techniques, and cultural symbols often used in Chinese poetry. They will understand how poetry reflects human values, emotions, and perceptions of life, love, nature, and spirituality. Meanwhile, prose studies include an understanding of different types of Chinese prose works, including short stories, novels, essays, and other fictional prose. Students will learn to analyze the structure, themes, and characters in Chinese prose works. They will understand how prose reflects the state of society, history, and daily life in China. In addition, the group will also explore the role of culture, society, and history in Chinese poetry and prose. This includes analyzing how Chinese literature reflects cultural, social, and political changes in China over time.
Philosophy of Chinese
Foundations of Chinese Thought in Chinese Studies is a focus of study that aims to understand and analyze the foundations of thought and philosophy that form the cornerstone of Chinese culture. Students in this group will explore fundamental aspects of Chinese thought, including the beliefs, values, ethics, and philosophical systems that shape Chinese cultural identity. This study will include an in-depth understanding of important concepts in Chinese thought traditions such as Taoism, Confucianism, and Buddhism. Students will learn fundamental values such as harmony, ethics, morality, and balance that form the basis of Chinese thought. In addition, students will understand the important role of ethics and morals in the daily lives of Chinese people. They will also learn how concepts such as Yin and Yang, Wu Wei, and Dao (the Way) influence the Chinese way of thinking and behavior. The group will also discuss the application of Chinese thought in modern contexts, and how these traditional values continue to be adaptable and relevant in contemporary society. Students will understand the implications and influence of Chinese thought on politics, economics, society, and the environment.
Mandarin to Indonesian translation
Mandarin to Indonesian Translation in the Chinese Language study program addresses specific skills that enable students to understand and translate texts or information from Chinese to Indonesian with accuracy and precision. The study includes an in-depth understanding of the grammar, vocabulary, cultural context, and linguistic nuances associated with both languages. Students in this discipline will learn effective translation techniques and strategies, including the use of technical terms, idioms, typical phrases, and notions appropriate to the context of the translation purpose. They will also understand cultural and social differences that can affect the meaning and interpretation of texts in both languages. In addition to the technical aspects, students will learn to understand the narrative characteristics, writing styles, and genres common in Chinese texts, so that they can transfer the essence and nuances of these texts into quality Indonesian translations. The group also discusses the ethics and responsibilities of translation, including ensuring accuracy, integrity, and adaptation to the purpose and audience of the translation. In addition, students will explore modern translation tools and the latest technologies that support and facilitate the translation process.
Indonesian to Mandarin translation
Indonesian to Mandarin Translation in the Chinese Language study program addresses specific skills that enable students to understand and translate text or information from Indonesian to Mandarin accurately and in context. This study includes mastering the grammar, vocabulary, and linguistic nuances of both. Students in this discipline will learn effective translation techniques and strategies, including proper word selection, use of idioms and phrases, and adjustment of sentence structure according to Chinese grammar. They will also understand cultural differences and linguistic nuances that can affect the meaning and interpretation of texts in both languages. In addition to the technical aspects, students will learn to understand the narrative characteristics, writing styles, and genres common in Indonesian texts, so that they can transfer the essence and nuances of these texts into accurate and quality Chinese translations. The group also discusses the ethics and responsibilities of translation, including ensuring accuracy, integrity, and adaptation to the purpose and audience of the translation. They will explore the use of translation tools and modern technologies that support and accelerate the translation process.
Computer in Chinese
Computers Mandarin Language in the Chinese Language study program addresses the application of computer technology and artificial intelligence to understand, analyze, and process the Chinese language. The focus is on utilizing technological developments to facilitate Chinese language learning and comprehension, language application development, and information processing in the context of Chinese. Students in this discipline learn various natural language processing (NLP) techniques that allow computers to understand and manipulate human language. They learn about methods of text analysis, pattern recognition, and automatic Chinese translation. In addition, they also understand the basic concepts of artificial intelligence that support the development of more advanced Chinese language applications. Computer applications in understanding Chinese include speech recognition, character recognition, speech synthesis, and interactive language learning aids. Students also learn the use of specialized applications and platforms that enable interaction in Chinese, such as chatbots and language learning applications. In addition to technical aspects, the group also considers ethics and safety in the application of Chinese language technologies. Students are taught to ensure the use of these technologies with integrity and respect for user privacy.
Mandarin for Professionals
Mandarin for Professional in the Mandarin study program focuses on the application of Chinese in professional and industrial contexts. This includes the development of relevant and appropriate Chinese language skills for effective communication in a variety of career fields. Students in this discipline learn Chinese vocabulary, phrases, and structures specific to sectors such as business, commerce, law, technology, health, tourism, and more. They understand the ethics and communication norms that apply in Chinese professional settings. In addition, students are also taught to understand correct grammar and the use of formal language appropriate to the needs and situations of communication in the world of work. This includes learning official letters, business emails, reports, and other official documents relevant to the profession of interest. In this discipline group, students also have the opportunity to hone their speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills in a professional context. They practice business communication, negotiation, presentation, and participation in professional meetings in Chinese.
Chinese Correspondence
Chinese Correspondence in the Chinese Language study program focuses on the development of proper and effective writing skills in Chinese, especially for official and informal correspondence purposes. Students in this discipline learn the correct structure and grammar in writing official letters, emails, memos, and other written communications required in business, academic, or social contexts. They also understand the etiquette and rules of communicating in writing in Chinese. In addition, students are taught to understand and adapt writing styles to suit the purpose of the communication and the recipient of the message. This includes the ability to compose job application letters, offer letters, invitation letters, and various types of written communication appropriate to the needs of the profession and daily life. In this group of courses, students are also given intensive practice in drafting and editing written documents, as well as practicing communication situations through different roles. They also learn how to convey information clearly, persuasively, and in accordance with applicable Chinese language norms.
Mandarin Media Language
Mandarin Chinese Media within the Mandarin Chinese study program focuses on the study and analysis of language used in media contexts, such as television, radio, newspapers, magazines, and online platforms that use Mandarin. Students in this discipline group study the grammar, vocabulary, and specific writing styles often used in news, interviews, features, editorials, and other media programs. They also understand the development of modern media and its impact on Chinese, including language use in social media and online platforms. In addition, students learn to identify and analyze language trends and social, cultural, or political issues that appear in different types of Chinese media. They are also trained to understand the different language styles used in different types of media, such as formal language in news and more casual language in entertainment programs. In this group of courses, students are taught to develop the skills of listening, reading, and analyzing Chinese media content. They are also involved in creating simple media content in Chinese, such as news reports, movie reviews, or feature articles.
Mandarin Tourism Language
Mandarin Chinese Tourism within the Mandarin Chinese study program focuses on the knowledge and skills required to communicate effectively in the tourism industry, specifically in a Mandarin-speaking context. Students in this discipline group learn about grammar and vocabulary related to tourism, including topics such as cultural tourism, food, tourist attractions, cultural events, transportation, and accommodation. They understand the grammar used in welcoming and guiding tourists, providing information about tourist attractions, and assisting with tourists' daily needs. Learning also includes effective communication strategies in tourism situations, such as giving directions, answering questions, and responding to tourist complaints. Students also learn about etiquette and politeness in interacting with tourists from different cultures. In addition, students are taught about the cultural diversity associated with tourism and how to understand and respect tourists' beliefs, traditions, and cultural norms. They also learn about Chinese culture and customs relevant to the tourism industry.
Contact Us
Undergraduate Program in Chinese Language
Universitas Sumatera Utara
Jl. Universitas No.19, Padang Bulan, Kec. Medan Baru, Kota Medan, Sumatera Utara 20155
(061) - 8215956 / (061)- 8215956 (Fax)
mandarin@usu.ac.id