Modern Languages and Literatures

Taiwan - Study Abroad

Taiwan: Chinese Language and Culture

Highlights From the 2011 Language and Culture Study Tour (Video)

Highlights From the 2010 Language and Culture Study Tour (Video)

Highlights From the 2009 Language and Culture Study Tour (Video)

Highlights From the 2008 Language and Culture Study Tour (Video)

Program Overview

This program is intended for Chinese language students who have completed CHI 102, and wish to gain a stronger command of their language skills and fuller understanding of the Chinese culture. The program will be taught by Grand Valley faculty for the first week, and by staff of the Center for Chinese Language and Culture at National Taiwan Normal University (NTNU), along with Grand Valley faculty, for the remaining five weeks. The goal of the program is to allow you to personally experience the language and culture that you have spent months studying. Course materials include field trips to cultural sites in Taiwan, lectures on history, society, politics, and language classes. The language classes are intended to be supplemented to the Grand Valley Chinese language curriculum, so that returning students can gain more from CHI 201 and CHI 202.

When Can I Go?

The 2009 program dates were May 27, 2009 to July 12, 2009.

Where Will I Live?

Program participants will reside in shared rooms on the campus of National Taiwan Normal University (NTNU).

Who Is Eligible To Participate?

This program is open to all majors but does require a "C" or better in CHI 102 and a minimum 2.5 GPA.

How Much Does This Program Cost?

The 2009 program costs were $3,600 and it included the following:

  • Round-trip airfare from Grand Rapids
  • Accommodation and meals
  • Field trips
  • All ground transportation

Amounts not included in the program fee for which participants will need to budget include the following:

  • GVSU Tuition (6 credits)
  • Additional Meals ($10/day for 31 days)
  • Personal expenses
  • Passport fees
  • ISIC card (optional)
  • Visa, taxes and other travel documents

The costs for the 2010 program are subject to change.

Financial Aid

Many types of financial aid, such as loans, grants and scholarships, are available to GVSU students and can be used for meeting the cost of this program. All GVSU students in good academic standing are eligible to apply for loans. Early application for financial aid is strongly recommended. Please note that students must enroll for at least 6 credits during the spring/summer semester to be eligible for federal student aid.

What Credits Will I Receive?

Students will register for a total of six credits:
CHI 180 or CHI 280: Special Topics in Chinese (three credits)
CHI 380: Chinese Culture/Society (three credits)

How Do I Apply?

2010 program information will be available in September, 2009

Faculty Director

Curtis Smith
Modern Languages and Literatures
D-2 126 Mackinac Hall
smithcu@gvsu.edu