Skip to Content

Chinese Studies in Chiang Mai

Participate in USAC's alternate Chinese Studies option located in Chiang Mai, Thailand. During this program, students can study and immerse themselves in Chinese language and culture while living in the ornate "Land of Smiles."

Why study Chinese in Chiang Mai, Thailand?

Students on the steps outside during orientation for the Chiang Mai Chinese Studies Program in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Chiang Mai has a vibrant Chinese community and a high concentration of people with Chinese-Thai ancestry, making Chinese a much-studied and often-spoken language in the region. Students will see first-hand how Chinese descendants in Chiang Mai have played a significant role in the city’s economic and historical development.

  • Take immersive Chinese language studies at Chiang Mai University, which hosts an established library of more than 3,200 volumes of books and videos in Chinese. It also offers HSK/HSKK certification exams at various times throughout the semester.
  • Supplement your language study with a course in modern Chinese culture and society or choose additional electives from among the regular offerings of the Chiang Mai program.
  • Immerse yourself in the large and active Chinese student community on campus and work with a language partner to practice and develop Chinese language skills.
  • Experience Thai culture through field trips and student activities in the city, mountain regions, rivers, rainforests, national parks or nature preserves.
  • The USAC Resident Director and staff are on-site full-time to welcome and support you during your term abroad.

Chinese Studies Courses in Chiang Mai

Spring 2024 | Fall 2024

Intensive Chinese language is taught sequentially in a language track format at the intermediate and advanced levels. You may enroll in two or three courses within a 9-credit language track and select your remaining electives from our regular offerings in Chiang Mai, including courses on Chinese culture and society.

Spring 2025 and 2025-26

USAC is excited to return to China in Spring 2025! If you have an interest in studying Chinese language, culture, and business - check out our programs in Chengdu, China and Shanghai, China!

On-Site Staff Resident Director

The Chiang Mai program has as Resident Director (RD) who is responsible for the overall operations of the program, including securing appropriate student housing, hiring outstanding faculty, organizing exciting field trips and overseeing your general well-being.

Chaidarun “Jum” Tippawan is the RD and speaks English and Thai fluently. She received her master’s degree from Uppsala University in Sweden.

The USAC RD and Program Assistants will meet the group flight at the airport and provide the mandatory on-site orientation as well as additional support and resources while you are on the program. Moreover, all of the faculty for the program, in addition to teaching excellent courses, can also give the best advice on how to live and study in Thailand.

Apply