MSc in Contemporary Chinese Studies

at University of Oxford

You will develop or extend your knowledge and understanding of:
 

• the key approaches to the social scientific study of modern and contemporary China
• research methods, strategies and ethics that will be of relevance to the social scientific study of China
• critical analysis of sources and ability to present findings effectively, both verbally and in sustained writing exercises
• framing and executing a workable research topic
• interdisciplinary research and its potential.

Modules involve lectures as well as seminar or class discussions, for both of which you will receive reading lists. It is a fundamental component of the Oxford educational system that you engage in individual reading and study in order to broaden and deepen your knowledge of your chosen field. You will also be given a supervisor to help guide you through your dissertation research through regular one-to-one meetings. In addition to your supervisor, other staff members will be available to advise you on reading, literature and topics. Students normally have some familiarity with Chinese language.

The teaching on the MSc course is built around two core courses. The first core course, Research Methods, will introduce you to the strengths and weaknesses of contrasting discipline-based approaches to Area Studies, and the study of China. It explores both qualitative and quantitative research methods. The second core course, The Study of Contemporary China, teaches foundational knowledge of modern Chinese history, politics and society needed for further study or research in all disciplines, and introduces the different disciplinary approaches to the study of modern China.

In addition to the two core courses you will choose two option courses and complete a research dissertation.

The overall structure of the course is as follows:
 

• Compulsory core course on The Study of Contemporary China
• Compulsory core course in Research Methods for Area Studies
• Elective papers: Candidates must choose two option papers from a list published annually by the Contemporary Chinese Studies Management Committee
• Research supervision in preparation for a 12,000 word thesis.

Proven and potential academic excellence

Degree-level qualifications

As a minimum, applicants should hold or be predicted to achieve the following UK qualifications or their equivalent:
 

• a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in any subject or discipline, although preference may be given to candidates who have studied previously in either the social sciences or the humanities.

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.7 out of 4.0.

GRE General Test scores

No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.

Other qualifications, evidence of excellence and relevant experience
 

• Research or working experience in China or Greater China may be an advantage.

• You should have some familiarity with Chinese language. You should indicate this familiarity with Chinese language either though records from formal language training or else by means of an explanation in your personal statement. This may include acquisition of language capacity through an extended period of residence in China or Greater China for work, study or family reasons.

• Research assistance or related working experience in universities, think tanks, NGOs, the media and other agencies may be an advantage.

• Publications are not expected, but if available, details should be provided.

English language proficiency

Minimum scores required to meet the University's higher level requirement

IELTS Academic

 7.5  

TOEFL iBT, including the 'Home Edition'

110

Home    
£24,440

Overseas    
£30,910

Graduate pathways after the MSc typically fall into one of three categories. The first group move on to further academic study, either in China in order to further enhance their language and cultural skills at leading universities, or by pursuing doctoral study in key disciplines, either here at Oxford or at other top-ranked universities worldwide.

The second path taken by the department’s graduates involves government and public service at international institutions, government agencies and prominent NGOs, usually with a direct focus on China or the East Asia region as part of the brief for their positions.

The third pathway chosen by graduates typically involves major private sector firms in industry or finance, commercial research agencies, international consulting and journalism.