The Chinese Studies Section within the School of Languages and Literatures at Rhodes University is delighted and honoured to launch its Master's Programme in Chinese Studies. The accreditation of this qualification by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) in 2022 marks its official commencement in January 2023. Distinguished as the first of its kind in South Africa and the African continent, this programme offers students a unique opportunity to advance their studies within the field of Chinese Studies.

This research-based programme welcomes prospective students from across Africa and around the globe who have attained their Honours degree in Chinese Studies or relevant disciplines.

Rhodes University currently provides an undergraduate degree programme in Chinese Language, as well as an Honours degree programme in Chinese Studies. The undergraduate curriculum imparts knowledge of the Chinese language and acquaints students with Chinese culture. With the launch of this Master's programme, prospective students are afforded the opportunity to engage in extensive research, exploring not only China-South Africa relations but also the BRICS countries, thereby enhancing the existing body of global knowledge.

Since this programme is exclusively research-based, prospective candidates are requested to propose a research topic to the Head of the Chinese Studies Section. Supervision will be assigned based on the available expertise within Rhodes University or through its Chinese partner, Jinan University (Guangzhou). Students may have the chance to conduct research not only within South Africa but also in China, with the possibility of co-supervision. If the research project necessitates it, students may have the opportunity to travel to China to further their research.

At the time of composing this article, the Confucius Institute at Rhodes University may offer partial funding to its students for research purposes, and opportunities for research trips to China, if the circumstances necessitate it.

Highlighting the dearth of research in the field, Professor Patrice Mwepu, the Deputy Dean of Humanities Faculty and Director of the Confucius Institute, emphasises the potential for students to become part of a select group of experts engaged in studies on BRICS countries. In light of this, Professor Mwepu strongly encourages prospective candidates to enrol in the programme, assuring them of excellent supervision and support.

Applications are currently being accepted, and the Chinese Section of the School of Languages and Literatures eagerly anticipates welcoming students in 2024.

For more information, please contact the Head of Chinese Studies, Professor Dexue Liu, on the following email: d.liu@ru.ac.za