Explore UAB

Chinese page welcome

Welcome to the Chinese page, for any questions please contact:
Prof. Ling Ma  |  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  |  (205) 934-1834  |  University Hall 3118

UAB STARTALK

Ever dreamed of mastering a new language while diving deep into fascinating festivals and cool AI technology? The STARTALK Chinese Camp at UAB is your ticket to an unforgettable adventure! Tailored for absolute beginners, this camp is a vibrant mix of culture, language, and tech. It's entirely FREE, including meals and snacks. Engage in a balanced blend of online and on-site sessions, all set against the backdrop of UAB's buzzing campus. Check out our webpage now and grab one of the limited spots. The world of Chinese language and culture awaits you!

 

Chinese courses

Chinese is at the forefront of current international affairs and is the most widely spoken language in the world. It is one of the six official languages of the United Nations. Students who enjoy being challenged and discovering will be rewarded by studying Chinese. The DWLL offers beginning, intermediate and advanced courses in Chinese that provide strong coverage of the Modern Standard variety of the language and meet your academic and transfer goals, including: Introductory Chinese, Intermediate Chinese, Learning Chinese through films, Learning Chinese through culinary arts, Medical Chinese, Business Chinese, etc.
Course descriptions

Minor in Chinese

The minor in Chinese consists of 12 hours from 200-level or higher courses. To enroll in any 200-level Chinese course, you must either complete 8 hours of 100-level courses or complete the equivalent placement test.

A complete list of minor requirements and courses is available in the UAB Undergraduate Catalog.

Students showcase:

 

Placement test

  • Step 1: Read the instructions for the WebCAPE Proficiency Placement Exam carefully and completely before starting the test. After the test is complete, click on See Score Report. Communicate your results to your instructor. If you have not taken the test before, you can take it here. Otherwise, please contact your instructor for a link.
  • Step 2: Take the oral test with your instructor.

Proficiency tests

The Avant STAMP 4S assessment measures proficiency in Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking.

The HSK Proficiency Test is an international standardized exam that tests and rates Chinese language proficiency. It assesses non-native Chinese speakers' abilities in using the Chinese language in their daily, academic, and professional lives. Read more about the HSK Proficiency Test.

 

Conversation Table & Tutoring

Conversation Table
  • Days: Wednesdays (Jan. 31, Feb. 21, Mar. 27, Apr. 17)
  • Time: 1:00-2:00 p.m.
  • Location: University Hall 3007

The Chinese Language Table is a relaxed, pleasant place for students who want to practice oral Chinese. Learners of all levels are welcome to join, since we have topics suitable for each level. At the Chinese Table, you can make friends with Chinese students and exchange opinions on cultural issues. You will surely learn something new every time you come!

Tutoring Sessions
We have arranged free tutoring sessions for even-numbered weeks, specifically on the following Fridays: January 19, February 2 & 16, March 1 & 22, April 5 & 19, from 2-3 pm via Zoom. For the Zoom links, please reach out to Professor Ma.

Language Exchange Program

This is a language-practice program sponsored by the Department of World Languages and Literatures (DWLL). It provides a way to practice Chinese with native Chinese speakers, improve cross-cultural communication skills, and get to know people from the Chinese culture. Chinese-speaking students can also gain great benefits from talking to American students. They will practice speaking and listening in English, and most importantly, they can learn about American culture in a more relaxing but effective manner.
Flyer

 

Chinese Lecture series

The Chinese Lecture Series was initiated to promote awareness of important topics related to Chinese culture and the language learning for those on the UAB campus.

Future events will be posted here and on the department homepage.

"Teach Languages Online: Essential Guidelines You Must Know" was a lecture from March 2021 featuring Dr. Miao-Fen Tseng, the Daniels Family NEH Distinguished Teaching Professor and the Inaugural Director of the Institute of World Languages at the University of Virginia.

The Chinese Society culture events

The organization hosts cultural events on a regular basis, which brings people together in an atmosphere of understanding and acceptance of the uniqueness found in and between all cultures, emphasizing those of the United States of America and those of Chinese-speaking countries.

Future events will be posted here and on the department homepage. TCS's Linktree

 

Education Abroad

Third-party programs

Please visit Prof. Ma's virtual office for more information about our study abroad programs.

Scholarships

Here you will find several opportunities to study Chinese in China for one or more semesters. Each program is selective and accepts applications from students of many nations. You may also be interested in Department and other UAB Scholarships.

The Critical Language Scholarship

The Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) Program is a fully-funded summer overseas language and cultural immersion program for American undergraduate and graduate students. Formal classroom language instruction is provided for a minimum of 20 hours per week. Extracurricular activities are designed to supplement the formal curriculum, including regular one-on-one meetings with native-speaker language partners for conversational practice, as well as cultural activities and excursions designed to expand students’ understanding of the history, politics, culture, and daily life of their host country.

Learn more about the program and how to apply on the CLS website.

Boren Scholarships and Fellowships

Boren Scholars and Fellows represent a vital pool of highly motivated individuals who wish to work in the federal national security arena. In exchange for funding, Boren Scholars commit to working in the federal government for at least one year after graduation. Award amounts are based on the length of time you spend overseas and the cost of the program. Scholarships can provide undergraduate students with up to $20,000, and fellowships can provide graduate students with up to $30,000.

Learn more about the program and how to apply on the Boren Awards website.

The Freeman Awards for Study in Asia

Freeman-ASIA will fund approximately 400 students over the next two academic years, with awards ranging from $3,000 per student for summer study and $5,000 per semester, to a maximum of $7,000 for a full year abroad.

Prospective students should visit the Freeman-ASIA website for eligibility requirements, full application instructions, and a list of deadlines.

Other Programs and Scholarships