The Chinese program includes a major for the Bachelor of Arts degree and a minor. It emphasizes functional communicative skills in Chinese and offers a broad and in-depth study of Chinese language, linguistics, literature, and culture. Acquiring functional skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing provides students with direct access to the Chinese people and society. They will also better understand and be able to interact with the people in mainland China, Taiwan, and Chinese communities in other countries. The study of Chinese language, linguistics, literature, and culture also broadens intellectual horizons, fosters appreciation for linguistic and cultural diversity, and helps prepare students to take their places as global citizens of the twenty-first century.