Modern Languages (MA)

Chinese Languages and Linguistics

Focus on diverse languages spoken in China

Chinese Languages and Linguistics offers a deep dive into linguistic variation, looking beyond Mandarin from both diachronic and synchronic perspectives. You will learn to understand the diverse languages spoken in China across all core domains—including phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, and the lexicon. In addition, the curriculum offers unique opportunities to expand your scope through courses on comparative linguistics in the Asian Studies programme.

Benefit from our long-standing expertise in Chinese linguistics

You will join a master's programme with a strong tradition in Chinese linguistics. Leiden University has been teaching Chinese since 1855. Leiden is also one of the very few universities outside China with four linguists on Chinese Linguistics.

Study programme

For an overview of the Chinese Language and Linguistics study programme, please check the Prospectus. 

Please note that this guide applies to the current academic year. This means that the programme for the coming year may differ.

Admission requirements

To see if you are eligible for this master’s programme, please check the Modern Languages Admission Requirements.

Apply now

Have you already made your choice? You can apply directly via the Modern Lanugages Application pages.  

Please note: you cannot apply separately for the specialisation ‘Chinese Language and Linguistics’, as it is part of the ‘Modern Languages’ specialisation. When you start your application you will first need to select ‘MA Linguistics’ (CROHO code: 60815). When asked for a specialisation, select ‘Modern Languages’. Studielink will automatically direct you to uSis (Leiden University’s online application portal) within 2 or 3 working days.

Contact

Do you have questions about studying Chinese Language and Linguistics at Leiden University? Get in touch with our study advisor.