Diploma in Chinese Studies (N70)

As the first and only course of its kind offered at the polytechnic level, and with at least half of the course conducted in Chinese, CHS sharpens your language skills while preparing you for careers in the education, marketing & advertising, tourism and business sectors. As part of the programme, you will go on field trips to a wide variety of organisations that reach out to Mandarin-speaking communities to broaden your perspective of Chinese culture and society.

In the first year of study, you will go on a discovery journey to uncover the different facets of Chinese history, culture, literature, drama and theatre. You will also be exposed to the fundamentals of translation and learn how to present, write and speak effectively with Chinese communication skills.

With an industry-relevant curriculum, you will have opportunities to work on collaborative projects with our reputable industry partners in sectors such as education, translation, business management, culture and heritage, as well as marketing and advertising. You will also get to embark on exciting internships to sharpen your skill sets and build an outstanding portfolio. 

Want to spread your love for the Chinese Language? Covering topics on teaching, curriculum planning, and child development, this specialisation will equip you for a career as a primary school teacher.

Furthermore, students who receive the MOE Teacher Training Sponsorship will get training opportunities at the National Institute of Education (NIE) in their final semester. Upon graduation, they will only need to spend one year at NIE to complete a Diploma in Education (Chinese Specialisation). Students on this track may apply directly for the MOE Teacher Training Sponsorship that covers tuition fees and offers a monthly allowance.

Students who choose the Business specialisation will hone their skills in technology in business, Chinese business practice and communication, marketing as well as translation. You will also gain an in-depth understanding of heritage tourism.

Academic Communication & Thinking (4 Credit Units)  

This module aims to develop students' critical thinking, writing and presentation skills in various academic and professional contexts. Students will also learn how to conduct basic research and accurately cite sources in this module. 

Essential Skills for the Digital Age (4 Credit Units)  

This introductory module is designed to help students build critical digital skills needed to succeed in the 21st century. The module covers a range of topics for both the digital workplace and citizenship, including digital communication and collaboration, data investigation and analysis, productivity tools, social media, cybersecurity, responsible use of technology, as well as a roundup of the latest technology trends and future of technology. 

General History of China (4 Credit Units)  

This module gives students an outline of Chinese history. It covers all the important events and major historical figures throughout all the dynasties in China. Students should be able to form a general idea of Chinese history and its people and gain insightful reflections to the development of Chinese history; probing them to read more extensively and reflect critically on the Chinese culture and history. 

Introduction to Chinese Culture (4 Credit Units)  

This module introduces various aspects of Chinese cultural history, including the development of social culture, Chinese philosophy, ethical values, educational system, the arts as well as other aspects of Chinese culture. Students will also be encouraged to critically evaluate Chinese traditions, customs and lifestyles. 

Fundamentals of Translation (3 Credit Units)  

This module introduces fundamental strategies and techniques of English/Chinese (EC) and Chinese/English (CE) translation. Students learn the basic principles of translation and apply these principles to the translation of a variety of text genres. Students will also explore how a translator makes decisions in actual practice by considering a host of factors, including the author's intention, the desired function of the translated text as well as the needs of the readers. 

Written Communication in Chinese (4 Credit Units) 

This module aims to teach students the skills to write effectively in both academic and professional settings. The focus will be on different types of professional writing such as prose, resume and academic writing. On top of acquiring the basics of structure and style, students will learn how to formulate and develop clear writing objectives, and how to adopt and assimilate these objectives into coherent, cohesive written pieces through research. 

Career & Professional Preparation 1 (1 Credit Unit) 

This module gives students a foundational introduction to their three-year diploma course curriculum and how it prepares them for industry. It will help them to embark on their course with the end in mind, through guided reflection of their personal characteristics and producing an overall game plan for their future education and career goals. The module aims to deepen students’ commitment to the sector that the course prepares them for. 

Workplace Communication Skills (4 Credit Units) 

This module aims to provide students with an understanding of effective communication practices in the workplace. Students will develop the necessary skills to communicate effectively with stakeholders, colleagues, and clients in various communication contexts.  

Contemporary China (4 Credit Units)  

The module examines Contemporary China from its political, economic, societal and cultural aspects. In order to deepen their understanding of China, students will learn about the challenges that China faces. Topics such as economic development, urbanisation, migration and others will be covered in the module. 

Introduction to Chinese Literature (4 Credit Units)  

This module surveys the development of classical Chinese literature from ancient times to the late Qing era. It introduces students to representative literary works of each period, ranging from the Book of Songs to the Qing novels. The module explores the historical background of literary works, the lives and experiences of major writers, as well as the structural and formal characteristics of different literary genres. 

Intermediate Translation (3 Credit Units)  

This module exposes students to the theory and practice of Chinese-English (CE) and English-Chinese (EC) translation in greater depth and breadth. Students will have hands-on experience in translating different types of texts, including advertisements, movie/song/book titles, news and basic legal writing. 

Chinese Speech & Presentation (3 Credit Units) 

Enhance your articulation and be an expert in communication. This module will enable students to learn the basics of Chinese phonetics as well as speech communication styles and non-verbal body language in different social settings. Students are trained to be effective, articulate, confident, composed and credible Mandarin presenters in a variety of professional situations.  

Innovation Made Possible (3 Credit Units) 

Underpinned by the Design Thinking framework, Innovation Made Possible aims to build creative confidence in you. The module will sensitize you to the process of user-centric problem solving and allow you to discover and hone your innate ability to think creatively, come up with innovations to tackle problems and explore new ideas for your studies and beyond. 

Health & Wellness^ (1 Credit Unit)  

This is a Level 1 Core module for all Year 1 students. The module will introduce students to the importance of maintaining both physical and mental health through the knowledge and monitoring of health indicators, and application through appropriate exercises. The aim of the module is to empower students with basic knowledge and skills to be independent and responsible in maintaining overall personal health. 


^ Interdisciplinary Studies (IS) modules account for 10 credit units of the diploma curriculum. They include modules in communication, innovation and world issues, as well as an interdisciplinary project. By bringing students from diverse diplomas together, the interdisciplinary project fosters collaboration to explore and propose solutions for real-world problems. IS aims to develop students to be agile and self-directed learners, ready for the future workplace. 

 

COMMON MODULES FOR EDUCATION AND BUSINESS SPECIALISATION 

Career Kickstart (2 Credit Units) 

This module is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge required to successfully navigate the transition from education to the workplace. Topics covered in this module will include job search strategies, resume and cover letter writing, interview skills, professional networking and personal branding. 


EDUCATION SPECIALISATION  

Child Development & Learning (4 Credit Units)  

This module examines the nature of child development. Students will learn the holistic nature of development, the biological foundation, pre-natal development, brain research and major developmental theories in relation to physical, social, cognitive and emotional development. Students will be introduced to child study and observation techniques.  

Readings in Chinese Classics (3 Credit Units)  

This module surveys the development of classical Chinese literature from ancient times to the late Qing era. It introduces students to representative literary works of each period, ranging from the Book of Songs to the Qing novels. The module explores the historical background of literary works, the lives and experiences of major writers, as well as the structural and formal characteristics of different literary genres.  

Introduction to Children’s Literature (4 Credit Units)  

This module introduces students to children’s literature and explains how it has reflected cultural, social and ideological change. Students will examine the ways in which the child has been depicted in literature, learn to appreciate and critique different genres of children’s books and be able to select age-appropriate books for young children. A study of children’s television and drama is included.  

Introduction to Chinese Linguistics (4 Credit Units)  

This module provides the core foundations in Chinese language and linguistics. The course introduces students to formal features of the Chinese language, including its phonological system, philology, lexical features, as well as syntactical structure, to provide a mastery of the language use as applied in their daily lives. 
 

BUSINESS SPECIALISATION  

Fundamentals of Business (4 Credit Units) 

Students will learn the basic concepts of Business, such as Economics and Business Management, to plan and evaluate business projects. Students will also analyse the global market and understand the relevance and impact of the business activity. 

Integrated Marketing Communications (4 Credit Units) 

This module equips students with the necessary strategic skills, as well as tools and techniques to plan and strategise for integrated marketing and communications campaigns. They will also learn to communicate persuasively for various audiences, focusing on the Chinese-language audience. 

Business Ethics Law & Regulations (4 Credit Units) 

This module equips students with business ethics, law and regulations through case studies analysis. Students will also develop clarity of thought that requires a critical mindset and logical reasoning when applying legal principles to practical business decisions. 

Project Management (4 Credit Units) 

This module introduces different design thinking and problem-solving techniques and equips students with the basic knowledge and skills of proposal writing, pitching and project management. Students will learn to rationalise processes, time, cost and risk management through project-based simulation 

 

COMMON MODULES FOR EDUCATION AND BUSINESS SPECIALISATION 

Chinese Folklore & the Arts (3 Credit Units)  

This module offers an introduction of Chinese folklore and the arts. Students will be introduced to the key relationship between folklore and folk arts. Important Chinese festivals and customs from both Mainland China and Singapore will also be discussed with a comparison of specific case studies. Students will be able to grasp a basic understanding of Chinese arts as well as the contemporary cultural phenomenon in Singapore. 

World Issues: Singapore's Perspective^ (2 Credit Units)  

This module will expose you to a wide range of global issues discussed in the context of Singapore as a nation state. You will be guided to critically examine current affairs from various perspectives and develop an appreciation of the dynamism behind current world problems and consider possible solutions. The intent of this module is to develop thinking students with well-considered perspectives who are able to articulate reasonable opinions, make thoughtful decisions and informed choices as active citizens in society. You will also be exposed to a multidisciplinary approach in the mitigation of global challenges and thus be adequately prepared to handle Year 3 IS interdisciplinary Project ID. 

 
EDUCATION SPECIALISATION 

Special Needs & Exceptional Child (4 Credit Units)  

This module introduces students to various special and exceptional needs in primary school children including physical, cognitive, behavioral, emotional and sensory characteristics that make them different. Students will learn about their roles in an inclusive learning environment, design of individualised learning plans and communication with families. 

Educational Technology (4 Credit Units) 

This module equips students with the operating knowledge and necessary skillsets in becoming more proficient in integrating technology into interactive teaching and learning in the digital age. Students will be introduced to the fundamentals of educational technology and infuse teaching and learning in a creative and interactive manner through information and communication technology. They will also learn basic digital ethics and be familiarized with cybersecurity measures to keep up with the rapid and continuing technological changes in the educational field. 

Language Lesson Planning & Teaching (4 Credit Units) 

This module equips students with the knowledge and skills to become more proficient in integrating technology into teaching and learning. Students will be introduced to the fundamentals of educational technology and infuse teaching and learning in a creative way through information and communication technology. They will also learn basic digital ethics to meet the rapid and continuing technological changes in the educational field. 

 
BUSINESS SPECIALISATION  

Business Translation & Interpretation (3 Credit Units) 

This module equips students with the functional skills and techniques for translating business and trade-related documents, including business correspondence, contracts and agreements. Students will also learn basic skills for interpretation to prepare them for the interpretation needs in the business environment.  

Chinese Business & Southeast Asia (4 Credit Units) 

This module studies Chinese business activity and investment in the Southeast Asian region. Students will also understand Southeast Asia’s economic, political and cultural activities and their impact on businesses entering these markets.  

Business Technology & Innovation (4 Credit Units) 

This module develops students with the mindset of business innovations through technology. Students will understand how disruptive innovations and transformations have impacted traditional businesses. 

6-Month Internship (20 Credit Units)  

This module provides the opportunity for students to be assigned to industry attachments at reputable organisations. The attachment, which will be for the entire internship semester, will match students’ abilities and interests to relevant organisations. 

Project ID: Connecting the Dots^ (4 Credit Units)  

Project ID aims to prepare you for an increasingly globalized and interconnected world where problems are multi-faceted and require interdisciplinary research and collaboration to solve. Using a project-based learning approach, you will have the opportunity to work in a multi-disciplinary team with students from across the polytechnic to investigate and propose comprehensive recommendations for a pressing real-world problem affecting Singapore. You will be guided to step out of your disciplinary silos and effectively communicate and collaborate with peers from different backgrounds. The module seeks to develop independent learning skills and the ability to synthesize diverse strands of knowledge to solve a complex problem, while impressing on you the importance of being a responsible global citizen. 


Description of Elective Modules  

Extended Internship (16 Credit Units) 

The extended internship allows the student to extend their internship and undergo additional sector relevant on-the-job training in a real-life working environment. In the process, the student will experience working as part of a team and may be exposed to more varied aspects of their chosen area of interest in the sector.   

Industry-based Project (16 Credit Units) 

For the industry-based project module, students are required to complete a substantial project that is the culmination of their education in the School of Humanities & Social Sciences. Students may have the opportunity to work in cross-disciplinary teams to address a real-world problem proposed by a client or proposed by a student in subjects approved by the School. 

Social Sustainability (4 Credit Units) 

This module introduces students to the social, cultural, and economic dimensions of sustainable development. Students will explore the concepts of sustainability and social responsibility in the context of global and local challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change and the environment. They will learn about the different models of community development, stakeholder engagement, and participatory decision-making that promote social sustainability. The course would also examine the role of businesses and organizations in promoting social sustainability through corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives and sustainable business practices. Through case studies, group projects, and interactive discussions, students would develop a critical understanding of social sustainability issues and learn practical skills to address them in their personal and professional lives.  

Frameworks for Solutioning (4 Credit Units) 

This module will provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the social impact landscape and equip them with practical tools to design and implement effective solutions. The course would introduce students to different frameworks for social impact and to apply these frameworks to social and environmental problems to develop innovative and sustainable solutions that meet the needs of diverse stakeholders. The course would cover topics such as problem definition, research methods, ideation, prototyping, testing, and scaling. Students would also learn about the importance of social impact measurement and evaluation, and how to use data and metrics to assess the effectiveness of their solutions. Through case studies, group projects, and real-world examples, students would develop a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities of social impact work and acquire the skills and mindset necessary to make a meaningful difference in their communities and beyond. 

Understanding Social Challenges (4 Credit Units) 

This module provides an interdisciplinary approach to understanding social challenges, such as poverty, inequality and discrimination. Through readings, lectures, discussions, and case studies, students will explore the complex and interrelated causes and consequences of these challenges, as well as potential solutions and interventions. 

Understanding Place-Based Challenges (4 Credit Units) 

This module provides an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the challenges faced by communities in specific places, such as housing, transportation, safety and land use. Through readings, lectures, discussions, and case studies, students will explore the complex and interrelated causes and consequences of these challenges, as well as potential solutions and interventions. 

Communicating to Create Social Change (4 Credit Units)  

This module provides an introduction to the art of storytelling and its potential for creating social change. Students will learn how to craft compelling narratives that communicate complex social issues and inspire action. Through readings, lectures, discussions, and hands-on activities, students will explore various forms of storytelling, including visual, written, and oral. The course will also cover topics such as audience analysis, message framing, and impact evaluation.  

Digital Strategies for Social Change (4 Credit Units)  

This module explores the ways in which technology can be used to advocate for social change. Through readings, lectures, discussions, and hands-on activities, students will learn how to use digital tools and platforms to raise awareness, mobilize support, and influence public policy. The course will cover topics such as social media for outreach, gamification for promoting causes and digital storytelling.