Program Information

Practicing Chinese calligraphy

The nine-week Columbia University Summer Language Program in Beijing immerses students in the culture of one of the world’s most dynamic cities. Columbia and local university faculty collaborate in the teaching of Mandarin Chinese at the advanced beginning, intermediate, and advanced levels. Students enroll in one 10-point class at the appropriate level. Classes meet intensively for four hours each day, Monday through Friday, and range in size from 10 to 15 students.

Intensive, personalized classroom instruction is supplemented by review sessions with drill "I appreciated the freedom of the program as I was able to experience a lot. I really loved my interactions with the people."instructors and by individual tutorials with professional tutors.Homestays, group excursions in and around Beijing, lectures by local experts, and a weeklong travel break give students insight into Chinese society and lifestyle, and provide a variety of environments in which to use their language skills.

The program maintains a language pledge in which all students agree to speak Chinese only.