best university for learning Chinese

changeschools
 January 08, 2012, 10:42 AM posted in General Discussion

Hey everyone, 

I'd like to gather some opinions as to what university/school in China is the best for learning Mandarin Chinese. I've been studying Chinese for about 6 years, and I'm already fluent in it, but as many people know there are levels of fluency. I'm going to be doing my masters degree soon, with a degree in Teaching Chinese as a Second Language. I'll be starting that in September, and while I'm doing it, I'm going to continue working on my spoken Chinese and conversation skills, etc. 

Also, if you mention a university, please say why you think that is the best school for learning Chinese. 

Thanks !! 

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pretzellogic
 January 08, 2012, 12:41 PM

FWIW, my hearsay observations from others that were interested in good mandarin language programs in Beijing was that Taipei Language Institute was really good. So they are not a fromal university, but they have 50+ years teaching experience. I'd say their strength is excellent materials, and a sound process for teaching the language. They are also relatively flexible in teaching characters or just listening and speaking. A number of embassies worth with them in Beijing as well. Their challenge is likely that like all traditional language instruction, the dialogues are straightforward, grammar focused, and basic topics get covered. But because they also allow one-on-one training, you get the opportunity to interact with the teacher in ways you get to interact with any Chinese person.

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changeschools

thanks for the input. Is that institution in Beijing, or in Taipei ? I guess I should have been a bit more specific above; I'm definitely looking for a university, because I'm trying to decide where to apply to for my master's program degree, which would have to be at a university.

But, again, thanks !

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changeschools
 January 08, 2012, 02:02 PM

So far, the big recommendations I've been given are: Beijing Language and Culture University, and Peking University. I was surprised to hear one person tell me that Beijing Language and Culture University is actually the best university for learning Chinese, in all of China. 

Anyone have anything to say about that ?