PGDip in Learning and Teaching Mandarin at University of Oxford

Programme overview

The PGDip in Learning and Teaching Mandarin is a part-time course for practising teachers, delivered mainly online, that addresses the global demand for qualified Mandarin educators. It focuses on enhancing professional practice through research-informed pedagogy and classroom-based research.

Faculty: Department of Education (Social Sciences Division) | Department: Department of Education | Duration: 12 months, part time (mainly online with a residential induction week in Oxford) | Intake: 23 August 2027 (2027-28 entry) | Study mode: part-time | Location: Oxford, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

After a one-week residential induction in Oxford, students take Module 1 (Building the Foundations of Research-Informed Practice for Mandarin Learning and Teaching), Module 2 (Supporting Mandarin Learners through Research-Informed Practice, including tone, orthography, oral interaction, reading, writing and SEND) and Module 3, an independent project (school-based action research or an extended essay). The taught modules total 48 teaching hours delivered online through Canvas.

Career pathways

Many students are working professionals; the qualification is designed to raise their expertise and open up opportunities for career advancement.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in any discipline (related fields such as education or languages and linguistics are an advantage); this can alternatively be shown by a strong master's degree and/or substantial relevant professional experience (minimum GPA 3.6/4.0 for US degrees). Teaching qualifications (QTS, PGCE, TEFL, CELTA, DELTA, HLTA) are not mandatory but considered. Applicants should have some experience of working with Mandarin language learners. No GRE/GMAT. Three referees (at least two academic), transcripts, personal statement (max 750 words) and two essays of up to 2,000 words each. Shortlisted candidates are interviewed (20-25 minutes, in person or by video). English language (University standard level): IELTS Academic 7.0 overall with at least 6.5 in each component; TOEFL iBT 100 (minimum Listening 22, Reading 24, Speaking 25, Writing 24); C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency 185 overall and 176 per component; Oxford Test of English Advanced 155 overall and 145 per component. Tests must be taken within two years of the start date. Application deadline: 12:00 UK time, 7 January 2027 (final deadline for Oxford scholarships; expected final deadline 2 March 2027; 2027-28 entry).

Domestic applicants: GBP 6,835 a year (2027/28). Part-time study, home fee, annual course fee Source

International applicants: GBP 11,180 a year (2027/28). Part-time study, overseas fee, annual course fee Source

Intake: 23 August 2027

Duration: 12 months part-time

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