Global China Studies: A Major Made in China and Shaped by the World

With over 55 course offerings over the past two years, GCS explores China from a variety of perspectives. The Concept of China, which provides a foundation for the major, encourages students to think critically about the country’s history and identity. Additionally, students are required to take courses focused on China’s relationship with the rest of the world. Current options include Tianxia: Traditional China and the World as well as Chinese Migrant and Diasporic Networks. Finally, they can take a range of electives in Chinese history, literature, politics, the arts, and more.

For instance, Fenglin Selina Ju, a GCS major, discovered the department when she took Shanghai Stories, which explores changing trends in Chinese literature by Shanghai authors. “That wonderful experience changed how I thought about Chinese literature,” she shares. “Indeed, the course inspired me to explore GCS as a major. From then on I started my journey exploring many different areas in Chinese studies.” And while all students take The Concept of China, there’s also China in 10 Soundtracks: The Sonic World of Modern Chinese Culture, which traces the development of popular music in China, and Queer China, which explores queerness through a Chinese lens.

Shanghai itself, which grew from a fishing village into a global metropolis, is a microcosm of China. “Shanghai is the cultural center of China. And, as a living museum, the city has provided its past as our textbook,” says Fenglin. “In fact, I believe both GCS and Shanghai share similar missions. Both the major and the city interpret China in a global context and shed new light on the power and influence of China and Chinese cultures worldwide.”

In addition to providing daily practical learning, many Global China Studies classes include field trips. “I recommend many GCS courses to students outside of our major as well because we get to fully immerse ourselves in China and the city,” says Cindy. Besides being a GCS major, she minors in Business of Entertainment, Media, and Technology; Producing; and Creativity and Innovation. “For instance, the Global Connections: Shanghai course took us around Shanghai to understand the city’s history and architecture.” What’s more, GCS faculty lead additional outings. In fact, three faculty members will take students to the Fujian province in late November to learn about the region’s history, architecture, and religion. During this immersive long weekend, the group will visit shrines, temples, museums, and monasteries.