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Shanghai Courses – 2025 Fall

Studying abroad can be a more meaningful and invigorating learning experience than at home—both inside and outside of the classroom. You may be more curious and alert than you usually are so use this heightened energy to enhance your studies as well as your cultural and geographical explorations. You may also encounter different teaching styles and course processes; be prepared to adapt and to learn.

Academics

Students may enroll in 12 to 18 credits per semester comprised of Chinese language plus electives in international business and Chinese studies. All students must complete a minimum of one language course, although we strongly encourage students to complete an entire language track. Course availability is contingent upon student enrollment and is subject to change.

Click the course title to view course details, description, and availability.

Chinese Language Tracks (Both Semesters)

USAC offers intensive language courses grouped into tracks in which courses are taught sequentially (back to back) within one semester. If you have already taken the first course in a track, you do not have to take it again for credit, but you must audit it to be prepared for success at the next level. Language courses are small and typically have a maximum enrollment of 15 students each. Students who do not enroll in a full track are required to take either Elementary Chinese I, Intermediate Chinese I, Advanced Chinese I, or Chinese Conversation to assimilate more effectively into Chinese culture and their new living and learning environment.

Track I: 8 credits

Prerequisite: None

  1. Elementary Chinese I
  2. Elementary Chinese II

Track II: 6 credits

Prerequisite: 2 semesters of college Chinese

  1. Intermediate Chinese I
  2. Intermediate Chinese II

Track III: 6 credits

Prerequisite: 4 semesters of college Chinese

  1. Advanced Chinese I
  2. Advanced Chinese II

Track IV: 6 credits

Prerequisite: TBD by on-site placement test

  1. Advanced Chinese III
  2. Advanced Chinese IV

      Language Courses

      • Fall
        Chinese World Languages and Literatures 100-level 4 credits Taught in Chinese
        Spring
        Chinese World Languages and Literatures 100-level 4 credits Taught in Chinese

        In this class, you will develop the four basic language skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing) in modern Chinese. In class, you will practice speaking and listening skills in Mandarin Chinese (known as “Putonghua” - lit. “common speech” - in the Mainland China, and “Guoyu” - lit. “national language” - elsewhere) through instructional activities and assessment activities, and role plays, etc.

        However, this class is not a conversational class. Reading and writing skills are essential and indispensable components of Chinese literacy. Students are expected to write and recognize Chinese characters covered in the text material.

        This course will also introduce Chinese culture and traditions through the language learning.

      • Fall
        Chinese World Languages and Literatures 100-level 4 credits Taught in Chinese
        Spring
        Chinese World Languages and Literatures 100-level 4 credits Taught in Chinese

        In this class, you will develop the four basic language skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing) in modern Chinese. In class, you will practice speaking and listening skills in Mandarin Chinese (known as “Putonghua” - lit. “common speech” - in the Mainland China, and “Guoyu” - lit. “national language” - elsewhere) through instructional activities and assessment activities, and role plays, etc.

        However, this class is not a conversational class. Reading and writing skills are essential and indispensable components of Chinese literacy. Students are expected to write and recognize Chinese characters covered in the text material.

        This course will also introduce Chinese culture and traditions through the language learning.

        Prerequisite: one semester of college-level Chinese, or equivalent

      • Fall
        Chinese 200-level 3 credits Taught in Chinese
        Spring
        Chinese 200-level 3 credits Taught in Chinese

        This course is designed to further develop the students’ listening comprehension, speaking skills, reading and writing proficiency in Chinese. New grammar points will be introduced and selected grammar points are reviewed during class sessions. Various activities - discussions, oral presentations, conversions - will provide the opportunity to practice on speaking and listening, class participation is therefore essential.

        Prerequisite: two semesters of college-level Chinese, or equivalent

      • Fall
        Chinese World Languages and Literatures 200-level 3 credits Taught in Chinese
        Spring
        Chinese World Languages and Literatures 200-level 3 credits Taught in Chinese

        Students will mainly focus on improving their Chinese pronunciation and tones, learning new grammar patterns and practicing the newly learned grammar and vocabulary. Organized in-class activities include daily dictation, quizzes, memorizing text and completing oral exercises such as retelling stories, making up dialogues, giving presentations, and performing skits. Students will study a variety of texts that reflect topics including culture, simple academic subjects, political issues, as well as controversial issues and events. Students will expand their vocabulary and enhance their grammar rapidly to handle these broad subjects.

        Prerequisite: three semesters of college-level Chinese, or equivalent

      • Fall
        Chinese 300-level 3 credits Taught in Chinese
        Spring
        Chinese 300-level 3 credits Taught in Chinese

        This course focuses on developing proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing Mandarin Chinese through the intensive study of vocabulary, phrases and constructions, and reading and writing exercises that emphasize the practical use of the Chinese language as well as Chinese culture and society. This course also prepares students for the Chinese HSK Proficiency Test level 4.

        Prerequisite: four semesters of college-level Chinese, or equivalent

      • Fall
        Chinese 300-level 3 credits Taught in Chinese
        Spring
        Chinese 300-level 3 credits Taught in Chinese

        This course focuses on developing proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing Mandarin Chinese through the intensive study of vocabulary, phrases and constructions, and reading and writing exercises that emphasize the practical use of the Chinese language as well as Chinese culture and society. This course also prepares students for the Chinese HSK Proficiency Test level 4.

        Prerequisite: five semesters of college-level Chinese, or equivalent

      • Fall
        Chinese World Languages and Literatures 400-level 3 credits Taught in Chinese
        Spring
        Chinese World Languages and Literatures 400-level 3 credits Taught in Chinese

        This course is the highest-level language course in the intensive tracks. Therefore, it is challenging and demanding. Students who enter this course should have already built solid foundation in the four language skills. The mastery of vocabulary in Chinese is approximately 1200 words prior to beginning the course. Chinese is expected to be the only language used during class. The course material adopts content presented in Chinese literature, newspaper, TV shows, etc. to discuss issues such as education, environmental protection, technology, Chinese culture and traditions, etc.

        Prerequisite: six semesters of college-level Chinese, or equivalent

      • Fall
        Chinese World Languages and Literatures 400-level 3 credits Taught in Chinese
        Spring
        Chinese World Languages and Literatures 400-level 3 credits Taught in Chinese

        This course is the highest-level language course in the intensive tracks. Therefore, it is challenging and demanding. Students who enter this course should have already built solid foundation in the four language skills. The mastery of vocabulary in Chinese is approximately 1200 words prior to beginning the course. Chinese is expected to be the only language used during class. The course material adopts content presented in Chinese literature, newspaper, TV shows, etc. to discuss issues such as education, environmental protection, technology, Chinese culture and traditions, etc.

        Prerequisite: seven semesters of college-level Chinese, or equivalent

      In addition to your Chinese language courses, you may participate in one-on-one weekly language practice sessions with an instructor or graduate assistant. Content covered in the sessions is customized to fit your individual language needs and is an excellent way to improve your daily communication skills.

      Fall Semester

      Chinese Language Electives

      • Fall
        Chinese World Languages and Literatures 200-level 3 credits Taught in Chinese
        Spring
        Chinese World Languages and Literatures 200-level 3 credits Taught in Chinese

        This course aims to further develop student’s communicative skills in Mandarin Chinese. Based upon thematic materials, students will expand their vocabulary, polish four tones in Mandarin Chinese and build the flow of Chinese speech through intensive practicing in classroom and outside with the teaching assistants.

        Prerequisite: two semesters of college-level Chinese, or equivalent

      • Fall
        Chinese 400-level 1 credit Taught in Chinese
        Spring
        Chinese 400-level 1 credit Taught in Chinese

        The class will mainly focus on helping the test takers get familiar with the mode and questions of the HSK test, understanding its contents and focuses, such as the grammar patterns and vocabulary, as well as master the test taking strategies. Organized in-class activities include listening to record, memorizing the vocabulary of Chinese Proficiency Test Syllabus Level 4, dictation, grasping the grammar patterns and completing examination papers.

        Prerequisite: four semesters of college-level Chinese, or equivalent

      Chinese Studies and International Business

      • Fall
        Art Chinese 200-level 2 credits Taught in English
        Spring
        Art Chinese 200-level 2 credits Taught in English

        In this course, students will learn the fundamental techniques and styles of Chinese calligraphy, including regular script, running script, and cursive script. Participants will engage in hands-on practice to develop their skills in brushwork, ink application, and composition, emphasizing the aesthetics and philosophy behind each character. The course will include demonstrations, guided exercises, and opportunities for individual creativity, allowing students to create their own calligraphic works.

        This course has an additional fee

      • Fall
        Finance 300-level 3 credits Taught in English

        This course exposes students to corporate financial management. The purpose of the course is not only to provide an understanding of how funds are raised and allocated with a company, but also to provide a general framework about the knowledge of corporate finance. Topics covered include the essential nature of risk and uncertainty, capital budgeting, sot of capital, capital structure and valuation, dividend policy, mergers and acquisition, and corporate governance. Students are encouraged to utilize all the resources available to them in order to acquire business-sense in the real world. Additional reading material will be provided throughout the duration of the course, and case studies will be referenced alongside the lectures.

      • Fall
        Entrepreneurship General Business 400-level 3 credits Taught in English

        This course is designed to teach students about entrepreneurship and give them actual hands on experience as to what it takes to transform an idea into a fundable business. The course will cover all of the elements an entrepreneur starting a new business must go through to be properly prepared to start, grow and run a successful business. Major elements will include developing soft skills in team building and leadership, developing a due diligence and presentation package, selecting and working with investors, the “Pitch” and what to expect after funding.

        Prerequisites: One semester of introductory-level college business or entrepreneurship

      • Fall
        Political Science 400-level 3 credits Taught in English

        In this course, students will analyze the Chinese political system and its policies and evaluate the Chinese governmental structure and ideologies. Students will be expected to attend class with a critical evaluation of assigned readings, actively participate in class discussion, and conduct research analyses based on the topics discussed in class.

        Prerequisites: one semester of college-level political science

      • Fall
        History 400-level 3 credits Taught in English

        This course explores the history of modern China from collapse of the imperial order to the present contextualizes China’s continuous revolution; emphasizes political culture and social transformation. Students will learn how modernization and industrialization manifested at the national level, and experience firsthand how it has influenced the people and the culture.

        Prerequisites: one semester of college-level history, political science, or international relations

      • Fall
        International Business Management 400-level 3 credits Taught in English

        This course emphasizes the managerial process in the international environment and provides an operational assessment of the fundamental issues involved in the management of international and multinational corporations. Instruction focuses on analyzing case studies related to upper and middle management issues, although the lessons apply to all levels and functions of international operations. Topics include matching foreign investment strategies with local conditions, managing export/import operations, trade and direct investment, local sourcing versus importing components, licensing and international joint venturing, designing organizational structures that match changing international conditions, managing a global structure, managing political risks, acquisitions, and integrating new businesses and dealing with international ethical considerations.

      • Fall
        Marketing 200-level 3 credits Taught in English

        This is a foundational course designed to introduce students to the key concepts and practices of marketing. This course explores the marketing process, including consumer behavior, market research, segmentation, targeting, positioning, and the four Ps: product, price, place, and promotion. Through case studies, discussions, and projects, students will gain an understanding of how marketers create value for consumers and build strong customer relationships. Emphasis is placed on developing strategic thinking and applying marketing principles to real-world business scenarios.

      • Fall
        100-level 1 credit Taught in English
        Spring
        100-level 1 credit Taught in English

        Tai Chi is a Chinese Kungfu that incorporates mental and physical exercise. Students will develop knowledge of the historical and cultural significance of Tai Chi in addition to the physical activity.

        This course has an additional fee

      Spring Semester

      Chinese Language Electives

      • Fall
        Chinese World Languages and Literatures 200-level 3 credits Taught in Chinese
        Spring
        Chinese World Languages and Literatures 200-level 3 credits Taught in Chinese

        This course aims to further develop student’s communicative skills in Mandarin Chinese. Based upon thematic materials, students will expand their vocabulary, polish four tones in Mandarin Chinese and build the flow of Chinese speech through intensive practicing in classroom and outside with the teaching assistants.

        Prerequisite: two semesters of college-level Chinese, or equivalent

      • Spring
        Chinese 400-level 3 credits Taught in Chinese

        This course is designed to prepare students for the business world in contemporary Chinese societies, including contemporary usage of business Chinese, Chinese business culture and customs, and preparation for working and living in China. Students will be able to develop reading, listening, speaking, and writing abilities, as well as practical skills of communication in Chinese business culture.

        Prerequisite: four semesters of college-level Chinese, or equivalent

      • Fall
        Chinese 400-level 1 credit Taught in Chinese
        Spring
        Chinese 400-level 1 credit Taught in Chinese

        The class will mainly focus on helping the test takers get familiar with the mode and questions of the HSK test, understanding its contents and focuses, such as the grammar patterns and vocabulary, as well as master the test taking strategies. Organized in-class activities include listening to record, memorizing the vocabulary of Chinese Proficiency Test Syllabus Level 4, dictation, grasping the grammar patterns and completing examination papers.

        Prerequisite: four semesters of college-level Chinese, or equivalent

      Chinese Studies and International Business

      • Spring
        International Business Management 300-level 3 credits Taught in English

        This course provides a comprehensive overview of Chinese business issues and practices, addressing key topical issues of modern Chinese business and considers how these issues are developing in the various stages and different industries in China.

      • Fall
        Art Chinese 200-level 2 credits Taught in English
        Spring
        Art Chinese 200-level 2 credits Taught in English

        In this course, students will learn the fundamental techniques and styles of Chinese calligraphy, including regular script, running script, and cursive script. Participants will engage in hands-on practice to develop their skills in brushwork, ink application, and composition, emphasizing the aesthetics and philosophy behind each character. The course will include demonstrations, guided exercises, and opportunities for individual creativity, allowing students to create their own calligraphic works.

        This course has an additional fee

      • Spring
        Economics Political Science 300-level 3 credits Taught in English

        This course aims to introduce major features and issues of China’s foreign relations since the period of reform and opening-up (gaige kaifang) in the late 1970s. Focusing on the background and rationale of China’s foreign-policy making, this course explores China’s foreign behavior in the context of globalization and power shifts of the world, in order to help students understand the trajectory and implications of China’s growing engagement in global affairs and, on this basis, develop their own insights into China’s future paths on the world stage.

      • Spring
        Finance International Business 300-level 3 credits Taught in English

        This course focuses on the study of the international business environment faced by the companies which do business with other overseas entities as well as residents in an open economy. The course is designed as an introduction to the theory and application of international monetary and financial economics. The material covered will include international financial activities, international reserves, and international monetary system.

        The course will also discuss the 'major' equilibrium relationships or parity conditions that form the basis of theories of exchange rate determination, hedging foreign exchange risk which allows a greater understanding of the risks and opportunities faced by Firms or individuals

        Other topics that will be touched upon include international bond and equity markets and international banking system.

        Since the world of international finance is ever-changing with exciting events impacting the topics on a daily basis. It should be noted that the course is may involve current events. So the course will be probably talked by discussing some issues appearing in periodicals, such as The Wall Street Journal or Chinese Magazines.

      • Spring
        International Business Marketing 400-level 3 credits Taught in English

        The course is designed to enable students to develop marketing strategies and plans in and across a range of international market environments. While extending students' strategic marketing skills in a global context, students will also develop knowledge and skills in international marketing processes by analyzing real world business case studies and developing creative strategies to enhance the growth of organizations.

      • Spring
        International Business Management 300-level 3 credits Taught in English

        The world economy is in a state of rapid and disproportionate growth driven by the slow but strong economic growth of developed countries and the fast catching-up of developing countries, which many label as a state of ‘stable disequilibrium’. This course will allow students to develop a better understanding of this economic condition through an analysis of political and cultural environments; basic knowledge in foreign trade and foreign economic cooperation as well as the international monetary system; strategic formulation and implementation; and finally, global business operations.

      • Spring
        Chinese World Languages and Literatures 200-level 3 credits Taught in English

        The course is to illustrate cultural and social mainstream of contemporary China, to familiarize students with the underlying values and practices that shape modern Chinese, with presentations, film clips and analysis on various historic events, legends, traditions, ancient philosophies, religions and social norms in a sociological and economic perspective.

      • Fall
        100-level 1 credit Taught in English
        Spring
        100-level 1 credit Taught in English

        Tai Chi is a Chinese Kungfu that incorporates mental and physical exercise. Students will develop knowledge of the historical and cultural significance of Tai Chi in addition to the physical activity.

        This course has an additional fee

      To request a course syllabus: syllabus@usac.edu

      Internship

      • Fall
        Internships 300-level 3 credits Taught in English

        Internship placements in Shanghai have been suspended during the 2025-26 academic year.

        USAC skills-based internships abroad are designed to complement a student’s program of study while providing a structured work or field experience under the direction of a professional supervisor and with the oversight and support of an on-site USAC internship coordinator.

        USAC internships facilitate the academic and professional development of students through:

        1) the practical application of knowledge and skills learned in the classroom to a professional work environment.

        2) the further development of practical competencies essential to the ongoing work of the placement site.

        3) the cultivation of a network of professional contacts.

        USAC internships will expose students to the workplace culture, norms, and expectations of their respective placement site and host country, deepening cross-cultural understanding and helping students develop intercultural communication and language skills in an internationally focused organization or other professional work setting.

        Through the consistent participation in the processes and practices of a professional field, students will acquire a working knowledge of that field and will apply that learning to their own career and academic choices and goals.

        This course has an additional fee

      Workshops

      (Not for credit)

      • Fall
        Spring

        The Chinese Cuisine workshop offers an immersive experience for students passionate about cooking, providing them the chance to learn about and prepare traditional Chinese dishes from Shanghai, Sichuan, Cantonese and Huaiyang Cuisine.

        The workshop menu is seasonal and updated based on the availability of fresh market products, ensuring a unique and varied menu with each session.

        This workshop has an additional fee.

        This workshop requires a minimum enrollment of five students to run.

      Apply