Mandarin Chinese

Common majors paired with Mandarin Chinese include international political economy, international studies, math and economics, business administration, Chinese studies, and political science. However, the minor in Mandarin Chinese is meant for students in any major looking to learn one of the key modes of communication in our global society.

Beyond your foundational courses in Chinese language and culture, you might dive into specific areas with classes like Business Mandarin, where you’ll develop the essential grammar, vocabulary, and communication skills necessary in business transactions; or Political Thought in Modern Asia, where you’ll explore Confucian, Hindu, and Islamic traditions and their perspectives on politics.

Our location in the heart of New York City means you’ll have the opportunity to learn from and partner with organizations like the Museum of Chinese in America and Fordham’s Center on Asian Americans and the Law. You’ll also have the chance to study abroad in a Mandarin-speaking city or elsewhere through one of our 100+ programs.

As a Mandarin Chinese minor, you’ll graduate fluent in the language, preparing you for roles in any field requiring bilingual skills or multicultural knowledge. Graduates often pursue careers in political science, business, and economics, as Mandarin is a rapidly growing language at the heart of international relations and business. You’ll also be uniquely prepared to pursue advanced study in areas such as foreign languages, global affairs, and law.

Plus, you can connect with alumni through the Fordham Mentoring Program to receive one-on-one guidance and advice for your career.  

At Fordham, you’ll use AI as a tool to enhance your learning. Our program will equip you with the skills to navigate the ever-changing landscape of AI in the workforce. As a Mandarin Chinese minor, you might use AI for basic transcription or examine Mandarin data sets used to train AI models, preparing you for high-growth roles in areas like linguistic data analysis. 

You’ll also be able to earn credentials and paid micro-internships through IBM SkillsBuild’s Getting Started with AI course. All Fordham students and graduates have access to AI training through RamConnect, the University’s alumni and experiential learning platform.

Above all, you’ll learn skills that can’t be replaced by AI, such as critical thinking, problem solving, and emotional intelligence.