Mandarin
Inspiring advanced language learning through culture and communication.
A-Level Chinese (Mandarin) develops advanced linguistic ability, cultural understanding, and analytical skills through the study of contemporary Chinese society, literature, film and independent research.
The course is designed to build on GCSE knowledge and prepare you for university study and global careers.
What you will study
Paper 1: Listening, Reading and Translation
- Themes are based on the society and culture of Chinese-speaking countries/communities
Paper 2: Written Response to works and translations
- Draws on the study of two discrete Chinese works: either two literary texts, or one literary text and one film.
- The literary texts include novels and short stories. All of the films are feature length.
Paper 3: Speaking
- Task 1 draws on vocabulary and structures across all four themes
- Task 2 is based on independent research selected and carried out by the student. The research may be based on one of the themes or on the student’s own subject of interest related to the society and culture of the Chinese-speaking world.
Next steps – where might it lead?
Studying Mandarin can lead to degrees such as:
- International Relations
- Business & Management
- Economics
- Linguistics
- Law
- Politics & Global Development
What experience and skills will you gain?
You’ll develop a broad set of transferable and career-ready skills, including:
- Advanced communication in one of the world’s most widely spoken languages
- Critical and analytical thinking through literature, film and cultural study
- Independent research skills via the IRP
- Cultural intelligence and global awareness
- Translation and interpretation techniques
- Confidence in spontaneous speaking and debate
- Transferable skills such as autonomy, creativity and problem‑solving
Future careers – where might this take you?
Graduates can pursue careers such as:
- Diplomatic Service Officer (£31,186 – £55,000+)
- International Business Manager (£38,000 – £60,000+)
- Mandarin Chinese Translator (£26,000 – £48,000)
- Financial Analyst (£45,000 – £70,000+)
- Media & Journalism (£24,000 – £55,000+)