Become skilled in Chinese language, life, and culture
Refine you skills in cross-cultural communications in the Chinese-speaking world.
As a postgraduate student, you’ll investigate an range of topics connected to China and the broader Chinese‑speaking world. Develop advanced expertise in language, culture, and contemporary issues. Explore Aotearoa New Zealand’s interactions with China from multiple perspectives, including migration, multiculturalism, and Chinese-New Zealand identities.
Understanding the history, language, and culture of this ancient society and modern economic superpower is becoming increasingly important. China's economic power, cultural relevance, and international influence continues to grow. New Zealand businesses and organisations continue to foster diplomatic, trade, and other relationships in China.
Choose your study path
There are several ways you can study Postgraduate Chinese with us.
Postgraduate study pathways
When you study by coursework you'll learn in a structured way—through lectures, tutorials, assignments, and exams. Studying by research involves independent research while working closely with an academic supervisor.
Focus on coursework
Graduate Certificate in Arts
Graduate Diploma in Arts
Postgraduate Certificate in Arts
Postgraduate Diploma in Arts
Focus on research
Master of Arts (by thesis)
Doctor of Philosophy
Intercultural Communication and Applied Translation
Boost your multilingual skills for a career in language services by studying for a qualification in Intercultural Communication and Applied Translation. We offer a Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma, and Master of Intercultural and Applied Translation.
Our Master's combination of intercultural communication and applied translation is unique in Australasia. It's endorsed by the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters Ltd (NAATI).
Qualification support and advice
We can help you match your interests and career goals with the right course of study.
If you’re a new student, talk to a Future Student Adviser through our enquiry form.
If you’re already studying with us, talk to Tītoko—Student Success.
For the research portion of your study, you’ll need a supervisor to help guide your research. Your programme coordinator will work with you to find the right person.
Study options
Find out how you can study Postgraduate Chinese at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
Why Wellington
As the capital, Wellington sits at the heart of Aotearoa New Zealand’s engagement with Asia. Study where policy gets made and engage with those making it, including with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, New Zealand Defence Force headquarters, and diplomatic missions from across Asia.
We’ve taught Asian Studies since 1957 and our staff continue to contribute leading research about Asian cultures, politics, and economies. We’re home to the New Zealand Contemporary China Research Centre, the leading hub for research on modern China, and the Centre for Strategic Studies, New Zealand’s leading institution for research on foreign policy and security issues.
Globally ranked
Our Modern Languages subjects are ranked in the top 250 worldwide in the QS World University Rankings 2026.
The QS World University Rankings is an annual global publication that gives overall rankings and subject rankings for more than 1,500 universities worldwide.
Future careers
Graduates who studied Postgraduate Chinese work in a range of roles that make the most of their language skills, understanding of China and Chinese culture, and cultural competency.
These skills, along with understanding belief systems, influences, and communication, make graduates valuable across many different sectors.
More career information
Find out more about careers.
The government careers website, Tahatū, offers more information about jobs, salaries, and current opportunities.
Scholarships
You may be able to get a scholarship to help fund your studies.
We have first-year and school-leaver scholarships available, as well as specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas.
We encourage you to apply—many scholarships don’t receive enough applications.
Scholarships for Modern Languages
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This Scholarship was established in 2025 to honour Professor Margaret Hyland who held the role of Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research at Victoria University of Wellington from 2018 to 2025.
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Two scholarships will be awarded annually to the top performing 300-level students of French, German, Spanish or Italian who intend to enrol in one of the above at Honours level the following year
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The purpose of this scholarship is to encourage postgraduate study of French and German language at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
Scholarships for international students
We are currently offering a NZ$15,000 VUW Undergraduate International Scholarship to all eligible international students enrolling in a Bachelor’s degree.
Your scholarship will be processed automatically when your programme application is accepted, and the amount will be deducted from your tuition fees.
We also offer specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas. We encourage you to apply—many scholarships don’t receive enough applications.
Scholarships for Modern Languages
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The purpose of this scholarship is to encourage postgraduate study of French and German language at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
Join our postgraduate community
The Postgraduate Students’ Association provides a voice for you on campus and information on studying at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
Postgraduate Students’ Association
MAI ki Pōneke
MAI ki Pōneke are part of an international network of Māori and Indigenous postgraduate students. They provide advice, support, and information to Indigenous postgraduate students of all levels, as well as those thinking about enrolling.
Academic staff research areas
Get help to manage your finances
We can help you:
- budget your money
- manage your student loan or allowance
- work out your accommodation payment schedule.
If you’re facing financial difficulties, we can help you apply for the Hardship Fund.
You may be eligible for government or community support, too.
Apply for a New Zealand study visa
You’ll need to apply for a study visa if you plan to study with us as an international student.
You should apply for your visa after you’ve received your Offer of Place, and before you come to New Zealand.