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Undergraduate
UCAS code:L2T1
Language Centre

BSc International Relations and Chinese

Develop your knowledge of international relations and China as a global power. Become proficient in Mandarin and study abroad at Fudan University, Shanghai.
BSc International Relations and Chinese at LSE

Overview

Introduction

Our BSc International Relations and Chinese combines theoretical and applied learning – with a particular emphasis on China’s role in the international community. You’ll become proficient in Mandarin and learn how to negotiate diplomatic relations in Chinese and other international settings.

There is a strong emphasis on "learning by doing" so you’ll complete fieldwork, research and practical challenges to develop your understanding of international relations (IR) and your language skills.

The degree offers a unique opportunity to spend two periods studying abroad at Fudan University in Shanghai. You’ll sharpen your Mandarin-speaking skills, complete further IR courses and immerse yourself in the culture and history of one of China’s most cosmopolitan cities.

By the time you graduate, you’ll be well prepared to work internationally or in diplomatic roles where Mandarin is required.

The language part of this programme is designed for students who are at GCSE/A-level or equivalent in Mandarin.

Entry requirements

Here, you can check our entry requirements for GCSEs, A-levels (please read them alongside our information about subject combinations) and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma. We also consider applications from students with a range of other UK qualifications and from overseas.

The language part of this programme is designed for those who are at GCSE/A-level or equivalent in Mandarin.

Please select the overseas button below and choose your country from the dropdown list to find the equivalency to A-levels of your qualification.

Home

We welcome students from all walks of life at LSE. We want to recruit students with the very best academic merit, potential and motivation. So, whatever your background, please do apply. Get all the details on our general entry requirements.

Competition for places at LSE is high. We cannot guarantee you an offer of a place even if you’re predicted or achieve our standard entry requirements.

Our standard offer requirements are intended only as a guide and, in some cases, you’ll be asked for different grades.

Programme content

On this programme, you’ll study 12 units over three years, plus LSE100.

Your time will be divided between International Relations and learning Mandarin within the Language Centre. You’ll spend your whole third year studying abroad at Fudan University.

Year 1

In addition to LSE100 you’ll take two compulsory courses, one unassessed course and two optional courses.

Why study with us

Discover more about our students and department.

Meet the department

The Language Centre has a close-knit, friendly community. Students often describe the Language Centre as like "one big family" and "a second home". We organise regular social and cultural events throughout the year – giving you the chance to get to know fellow students and staff better and deepen your understanding of your chosen language.

The Language Centre teaches two-degree programmes jointly with other departments – the BSc International Relations and Chinese and the BSc Language, Culture and Society. Our students take part in overseas study trips, drawing on our links with partner institutions in five different countries.

From undergraduate study through to learning a new language, the Language Centre offers a wide range of opportunities for all LSE students.

We welcome around 2,000 students each year and teach nine languages. Our students don’t just learn the language – they also learn about the broader social and cultural aspects of their chosen language.

LSE students can:

  • study language, linguistics, and literature as part of their degree programme.
  • study modern languages in addition to their degree studies.
  • learn English for Academic Purposes (EAP) to support their academic study.

Learn more about our undergraduate programmes, non-degree courses and English for Academic Purposes courses.

Your application

Overview

We consider each application carefully, taking into account all the details you’ve included on your UCAS form, such as:

You may also have to provide evidence of your English proficiency, although this is not needed at the application stage. See our English language requirements page.

112
Applications
13
Intake
9:1
2022 Ratio

Fees and funding

The table of fees shows the latest tuition fees for all programmes.

You're charged a fee for each year of your programme. Your tuition fee covers registration and examination fees payable to the School, lectures, classes and individual supervision, lectures given at other colleges under intercollegiate arrangements and, under current arrangements, membership of the Students' Union. It doesn't cover living costs or travel or fieldwork.

Home

£9,250

Home student fee per each year of your programme

This is the 2025/26 tuition fee. The Home student undergraduate fee may rise in line with inflation in subsequent years.

Study abroad

The Home undergraduate fee for your study year abroad in Year 3 for those starting in 2025/26 is £1,385. This fee applies regardless of the year within the programme that the year abroad is taken. During this year abroad, you’ll also be expected to pay for your flights, accommodation and subsistence.

Funding to help with costs during your study abroad year

The Fred Halliday Language Award is a fund available to students undertaking study abroad as part of their degree programme.

Learning and assessment

How you learn

Graduate destinations

Overview

The degree programme will prepare you for a career in politics and government, diplomacy of international organisations, NGO charities and international development (including multi-national corporations).

Further information on graduate destinations

Discover Uni

Every undergraduate programme of more than one year duration will have Discover Uni data. The data allows you to compare information about individual programmes at different higher education institutions.

Programmes offered by different institutions with similar names can vary quite significantly. We recommend researching the programmes you're interested in and taking into account the programme structure, teaching and assessment methods, and support services available.

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