Chinese and Russian A BA

Course overview

In this fascinating and varied five-year degree, you’ll learn two major world languages and deepen your understanding of the modern world by exploring the histories and cultures of the nations that speak them. You’ll spend one year in China and another in a Russian-speaking country, improving your language skills and gaining first-hand experience of these cultures and societies to enrich your understanding of these amazing countries.

The dominant cultural, political and economic influence in East Asia for over two millennia, China today constitutes almost a fifth of the global economy, and is a major centre for technological, business and cultural innovation. Chinese at Leeds is one of the longest running courses in the UK, reflecting the country’s diversity and changes to equip you with a deep understanding of modern China.

If you have A-level Russian or equivalent, this degree will give you the opportunity to build on your knowledge. With approximately 170 million native speakers and tens of millions who speak it as a second language, Russian is a lingua franca, not only in the Russian Federation, but also in many parts of Eastern Europe, Central Asia and diasporic communities worldwide. The global response to Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine will require talented individuals able to demonstrate both linguistic and intercultural skills. Our course will equip you with the ability to navigate this challenging environment with confidence.

The School of Languages, Cultures and Societies at Leeds is an exciting place for your undergraduate experience. Our diverse international community of students and staff, student-led societies and outstanding pastoral support creates a friendly and dynamic atmosphere for all our students.

Specialist facilities

The world-class Brotherton Library is home to a wide variety of manuscripts, archive and early printed material in its Special Collections – valuable assets for your independent research. These include rare copies of magazines and unpublished letters, with materials across the range of languages that we teach. Our Chinese collection is one of the best collections of modern Chinese books in the country. Our main library resources are also excellent, and the University Library offers a comprehensive training programme to help you make the most of them.

The Language Centre includes digital language labs, audio/video practice booths and Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL). The Language Zone offers excellent learning material in more than 50 languages, including online resources and advice. The Language Exchange and the Language Groups programme provide opportunities to practice with other learners and native speakers; you can also volunteer to help other learners and enhance your CV at the same time. 

Our Martin Thomas Translation Labs feature state-of-the-art computing facilities for translation studies as well as Interpreter Training Suites – ideal if you’re considering a career in interpreting.

The University of Leeds is home to the world-leading Leeds Russian Archive, established in 1982 and comprising around 650 collections of manuscripts, photographs, and other archival material related to Anglo-Russian contacts in the 19th and 20th centuries. With reserves of texts by Russophone authors, ranging from Bunin to Lenin, the Archive offers countless opportunities for meaningful original research.

In your language classes, you’ll benefit from state-of-the-art digital resources, including IntelliText: a program developed at Leeds that offers access to large collections of authentic texts in Russian (and other languages), helping you produce more sophisticated and natural language in your writing and speaking.

The University also hosts the Leeds Centre for New Chinese Writing, with regular visiting speakers.

This means you have the unique and exciting opportunity to participate in many cultural events, such as talks, poetry readings and film screenings, and take part in competitions. 

Take a look around our libraries:

Brotherton Library
Laidlaw Library
Edward Boyle Library

Course details

This course, and the unique experience of living abroad, will equip you with the knowledge, skills and intercultural awareness necessary to pursue a wide range of exciting global careers.

Core and optional modules will give you a firm grounding in both languages while you study topics that suit your interests. You'll also develop a range of transferable skills which are highly regarded by employers, including critical thinking, enhanced communication, analytical and cultural awareness skills.

Year 1

In your first year, you’ll study core and optional modules that develop your language skills in both Russian and Chinese. You’ll study the politics, history and culture of China, and the wider Asia Pacific region, and explore a contemporary understanding of Russia in a global context. You’ll learn both simplified and traditional Chinese characters from your first year. A joint honours degree allows you to study the same core topics as students on each single honours course, but take fewer optional modules so you can fit in both subjects.

Years 2 and 3

In your second and third years, you’ll study abroad. You’ll study language classes for a year at a university or language institute in China or Taiwan and spend another year in a Russian-speaking country, taking an intensive language course and experiencing local culture first-hand.

Year 4

You’ll return to Leeds to further develop your language proficiency in Russian and Chinese, selecting optional modules on topics such as translation theory and practice, Business Russian, aspects of Russophone cultures and societies, international relations and the political economy of East Asia, literature and visual cultures in China.

Year 5

You’ll deepen your knowledge in your final year at Leeds, studying advanced language modules and working on a final-year research project. This could be a dissertation, translation or digital documentary, submitted as a podcast. You'll also have the flexibility to choose from a range of optional modules in areas that interest you.

The international outlook and knowledge you develop alongside advanced language skills will allow you to consider career options in a range of fields.

Course structure

The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.

For more information and a full list of typical modules available on this course, please read Chinese and Russian A BA in the course catalogue

Year 1 compulsory modules

Year 1 optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)

Year 2 optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)

Year 3 optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)

Year 4 compulsory modules

Year 4 optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)

Year 5 compulsory modules

Year 5 optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)

Learning and teaching

You’ll learn through a mix of seminars, lectures, workshops, group sessions and one-to-one supervisions, as well as independent learning supported by a rich range of resources. Our tutors are passionate researchers and dedicated teachers who use a range of teaching methods to help you benefit from their expertise, including lectures, seminars, tutorials and workshops. 

Independent study is also central to this degree, as it allows you to develop your skills in research and analysis. You’ll be able to apply your skills and knowledge in a final-year research project on a topic of your own choice. 

We are committed to an innovative and inclusive approach to teaching, which draws on a variety of activities including flipped learning, group presentations and bespoke digital resources to prepare you for your seminar discussions.

On this course, you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.

Assessment

We are creative in our approach to assessment, and we consistently support your independent learning to ensure assessment is fair and inclusive. 

 We use a wide range of assessments, including essays, exams, presentations, podcasts, literature reviews, reflective logs, and group projects. Assessments are designed to deliver the transferable skills needed for the world of work; task-based activities are designed to evidence critical thinking, demonstrate initiative, and show knowledge of a range of relevant subjects and sources. We often try to provide you with a choice of assessment type.

Support for assessments is integrated into our teaching and you'll usually have the opportunity for formative assessments that allow you to practice your skills and do well in your formal assessments. We also run extra classes on skills such as public speaking, structuring essays and exam technique that you’ll be able to attend throughout your time at Leeds.

Entry requirements

A-level: ABB including B in Russian

Other course specific tests:

When an applicant is taking the EPQ in a relevant subject this might be considered alongside other Level 3 qualifications and may attract an alternative offer in addition to the standard offer. If you are taking A Levels, this would be BBB at A Level including Russian and grade A in the EPQ.

Alternative qualification

Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the School’s Undergraduate Admissions Team.

Alternative entry

We’re committed to identifying the best possible applicants, regardless of personal circumstances or background.

Access to Leeds is a contextual admissions scheme which accepts applications from individuals who might be from low income households, in the first generation of their immediate family to apply to higher education, or have had their studies disrupted.

Find out more about Access to Leeds and contextual admissions.

Typical Access to Leeds offer: BBC at A Level including B in Russian and pass Access to Leeds.

International

We accept a range of international equivalent qualifications. Contact the Undergraduate Admissions Office for more information.

International Foundation Year

International students who do not meet the academic requirements for undergraduate study may be able to study the University of Leeds International Foundation Year. This gives you the opportunity to study on campus, be taught by University of Leeds academics and progress onto a wide range of Leeds undergraduate courses. Find out more about International Foundation Year programmes.

English language requirements

IELTS 7.0 overall, with no less than 6.5 in any component. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

Improve your English
If you're an international student and you don't meet the English language requirements for this programme, you may be able to study our undergraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.

Fees

UK: £9,250 (per year)

International: £24,500 (per year)

Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2025/26
In November 2024 the UK Government announced that the tuition fee cap may rise to £9,535 from £9,250.

The tuition fee cap for some foundation years may also reduce to £5,760 from £9,250.

This would start from the academic year 2025/26. However, this is subject to final confirmation from the Government. Once available, we’ll publish the fees for the 2025/26 academic year and individual offer letters shall be updated via email and post.

The foundation year courses affected are:
·         Business Studies with Foundation Year BSc
·         Arts and Humanities with Foundation Year BA
·         Interdisciplinary Studies with Preparation for Higher Education BA
·         Social Science (foundation year) BA

Tuition fees for international undergraduate students starting in 2024/25 and 2025/26
Tuition fees for international students for 2024/25 and 2025/26 are available on individual course pages.

Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2024/25
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students are set by the UK Government and will be £9,250 for students starting in 2024/25.

The fee may increase in future years of your course in line with inflation only, as a consequence of future changes in Government legislation and as permitted by law.
 

Tuition fees for a study abroad or work placement year
If you take a study abroad or work placement year, you’ll pay a reduced tuition fee during this period. For more information, see Study abroad and work placement tuition fees and loans.

Read more about paying fees and charges.

There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.

Scholarships and financial support

If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There is help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Find out more in our Undergraduate funding overview.

Applying

Apply to this course through UCAS. Check the deadline for applications on the UCAS website.

Read our guidance about applying.

International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK students. Our network of international representatives can help you with your application. If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

Admissions policy

University of Leeds Admissions Policy 2025

This course is taught by

School of Languages, Cultures and Societies

Contact us

School of Languages, Cultures and Societies Undergraduate Admissions

Email: artsadmissions@leeds.ac.uk
Telephone:

Career opportunities

You’ll gain the language and professional skills to prepare you for an international career in a wide range of sectors. This Chinese & Russian degree allows you to gain proficiency in two major world languages. As well as demonstrating that you’re intellectually versatile, your languages degree will equip you with a wide range of skills across different disciplines which are attractive to employers, such as:

• good research skills and the ability to analyse complex information from multiple sources before drawing your own conclusions
• communication skills, enabling you to defend your views clearly, either verbally or in writing
• strong organisational skills and the confidence to work independently or in a team
• a deep understanding of cultural diversity, allowing you to work effectively with people whose backgrounds differ from yours

Leeds graduates have pursued careers across the globe and in a range of sectors, including education, the media, law, publishing, the civil service and diplomacy, business and finance and the charity sector. Many others have also pursued postgraduate study, including further training in language-based careers such as translating and interpreting.

Careers support

Leeds is the 5th most targeted university in the UK by graduate recruiters (The Graduate Market in 2022). At Leeds, we are fully committed to developing your employability and career prospects. You’ll have a wealth of opportunities to develop your skills and make the most out of your time at Leeds and during the time you’ll spend abroad.

Experience of living abroad, combined with detailed study of languages and cultures, is valuable preparation for employment in a multicultural, multinational environment.

We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That’s one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.

Our experts in the University’s Careers Centre will support you to make informed decisions about your career path, understand the opportunities available and the steps you need to take to pursue your choices. You’ll be encouraged to attend on-campus events including graduate recruitment fairs, employer networking and information sessions, and meetings with our alumni.

The Union provides career-related support through the part-time job hub, student societies and other activities throughout the year. Clubs and societies are a great way to get involved in lots of activities and explore your interests. They’re also a great way to develop your skills such as team working and leadership. For example, you could be a key player in an award-winning sports team, or become a committee member and chair society meetings, or you could even project manage a volunteering trip overseas. The Union is home to School Reps who are appointed by students to represent the views and be the voice of students in your School.

At Leeds, you can access support to help you start your own business. Whether you want to learn about enterprise or become an entrepreneur, we offer award-winning specialist support. 

As a student with us, you’ll be guided in your career choices and prepared for life after your degree in a variety of ways. Workshops and events are organised for you by the School throughout the year and focus on networking, understanding the value of your language skills, hearing from alumni about their career experiences and hosting graduate recruiters who want to hire you.

We’ll also keep you informed of work/voluntary placements for your time abroad and any other part-time and volunteering opportunities that you can fit around your studies. 

We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That’s one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.

Leeds for Life is our unique approach to helping you make the most of University by supporting your academic and personal development. Find out more at the Leeds for Life website.

The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more about Careers support.

Study abroad and work placements

Study abroad

This five-year course involves two periods of study abroad. You'll study for a year at a university or language institute in China or Taiwan, and you’ll also spend a year taking an intensive Russian language course in a Russian-speaking country.

As part of your Russian undergraduate degree you’ll spend a year at a higher education institution in a Russian-speaking country.

You’ll benefit from expert instruction in intensive language classes and broaden your understanding of the countries and cultures in which Russian is spoken. Of course, you’ll also have plenty of time outside the classroom to travel and explore. 
You’ll have the option of University accommodation (subject to availability), or you may choose to arrange your own private accommodation.

Whilst on your Year Abroad, there is constant liaison between the institutions and the University of Leeds to provide guidance, support and advice. You’ll be able to use the student blog, and the Russian Academic Society has a Facebook group to discuss living and studying on your Year Abroad.

For many students the Year Abroad is the highlight of the course, through which you gain insights into the culture and society of Russian-speaking countries, broaden your mind and make new friends.

The Year Abroad is essential not only in developing the Russian language skills you’ll have acquired during your first year, but also in deepening your understanding of Russophone countries and communities. The language skills developed during your Year Abroad will be built on when you return to Leeds to complete your degree.

Read more about the Chinese year abroad

Read more about the Russian study abroad