Chinese Language + Asian Studies

Application Deadline

The application deadline has passed.

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Tentative Dates

Aug 23 - Dec 20, 2025

17 weeks

Costs

$19,950 See Full Breakdown

Credit

12 - 18 semester hours

18 - 27 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

May 1, 2025

Apply Now

Dates

Aug 31 - Dec 22, 2024

16 weeks

Costs

$19,850 See Full Breakdown

Credit

12 - 18 semester hours

18 - 27 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

The application deadline has passed.

Apply Now

Dates

Aug 31, 2024 - Jun 9, 2025

40 weeks

Costs

$38,800 See Full Breakdown

Credit

12 - 18 semester hours

18 - 27 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

The application deadline has passed.

Apply Now

Learn more about scholarships

Take your studies to the City of Azaleas and Taiwan’s incredible capital, Taipei! Designed for students interested in the Chinese language and Asian studies, this program is the perfect opportunity to earn credits toward your degree while immersing yourself in Taiwanese culture.

When class is in session, you’ll study at the National Taiwan Normal University (NTNU) where you may take courses in the arts, sciences, and Chinese language. You may also enroll in Mandarin or English courses from other departments at NTNU. To round out your academic experience, you’ll have the chance to participate in various cultural and educational experiences, such as community engagement and excursions, while participating in NTNU campus life and CIEE-organized activities.

Outside the classroom, you’ll have every opportunity to enjoy all Taipei has to offer! Visit one of the 4,000+ temples around Taiwan, eat your fill of beef noodle soup (an important Taiwanese delicacy), and discover the city’s interesting and contested history during expert-guided tours.

See More On:

CIEE Taipei

Unique Experiences

Explore Taiwan's natural beauty

from abundant national parks to crystal clear streams

Learn about Taiwan

on guided tours of many historic and cultural landmarks

Find delicious cuisine

at any of Taipei’s infamous night markets

2.5 M

population of Taipei

16

indigenous groups

700 K

Chinese artifacts and artworks at the National Palace Museum

Your Destination

An island at the crossroads of Northeast and Southeast Asia, Taiwan is a unique fusion of cultures. Known for its delicious street food, beautiful scenery, and friendly people, Taiwan offers a variety of experiences that will make your stay unforgettable.

Study Mandarin to get to know the deep roots of this language and experience the rich culture. During your time in Taipei, you’ll have every opportunity to learn about the history and heritage of the island while visiting temples and historic sites, tasting unique Taiwanese cuisine at a world-famous night market, and enjoying nature while hiking the beautiful mountains.

CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. Local CIEE staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Taipei.

The Culture

Excursions & Activities

Explore scenic hiking trails and breathtaking views
Learn about Taiwanese culture by attending local cultural festivals
Practice your skills with other NTNU students in language exchange programs
Volunteer with a local organization to give back to the local community

Projects

Volunteering: Students will have the opportunity to volunteer at local community organizations, such as schools, community centers, or nonprofit organizations. Students may participate in activities such as tutoring, mentoring, or teaching English, and in the process, gain a deeper understanding of the local community and culture.

Program Blogs

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Housing & Meals

Housing

CIEE Taipei provides a variety of accommodation choices to make sure you feel at home while abroad. Moreover, all accommodation options are situated in neighborhoods with easy access to public transportation, shopping areas, cafés, and food establishments.

Standard Housing: Includes homestays or double rooms in hotels.

Homestays provide students with the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in Taipei's diverse culture. The homestay experience includes breakfast and dinner from Monday to Friday. Students will have the freedom to come and go as they please while spending quality time with their host families, gaining firsthand insight into everyday life in Taipei.
Double occupancy rooms in a hotel within a 25-minute commute from the CIEE Center and a 15-minute commute from NTNU. Room amenities include desks, chairs, closets, electrical current 110 Volts/60 Cycles AC, and free internet connection. Coin-operated laundry machines are available.

Select Housing: Includes single occupancy rooms in a hotel within a 25-minute commute from the CIEE Center and a 15-minute commute from NTNU. Room amenities include desks, chairs, closets, electrical current 110 Volts/60 Cycles AC, and free internet connection. Coin-operated laundry machines are available.

Select Plus Housing: Includes larger single occupancy rooms in a hotel within a 25-minute commute from the CIEE Center and a 15-minute commute from NTNU. Room amenities include a desk, a chair, a closet, an electrical current of 110 Volts/60 Cycles AC, and free internet connection. Coin-operated laundry machines are available.

A note: The default criterion to assign housing is first-come, first-served; however, other factors may also be considered. If we cannot accommodate your first housing choice, we'll let you know before you arrive.

Meals

Homestays: Host families provide two meals per day.

Hotels: Meals are not included. Students are responsible for their meals. Meals are available in the NTNU campus cafeterias at moderate prices, and there are many affordable local eateries, restaurants and grocery stores in the vicinity.

CIEE Taipei

Meals

Students enjoying street food.

Academics

Established in 1946, National Taiwan Normal University (NTNU is known for its contributions to the field of education and for producing skilled educators who have significantly impacted Taiwan's educational landscape. In addition to its academic achievements, NTNU is famous for its language education programs, particularly the Mandarin Training Center (MTC), which is one of the leading centers for learning Mandarin Chinese.

NTNU is part of the “NTU Triangle Alliance” with National Taiwan University (NTU) and National Taiwan University of Science and Technology (NTUST). Established in 2014 with the principle of equality and mutual benefit, the three universities promote teaching, research activities, and resource integration by allowing students of NTU, NTNU, and NTUST to enroll in courses at any of the three universities.

While on program, CIEE students will take the majority of their courses within a primary department at NTNU but will also have the opportunity to take individual elective courses through NTU and NTUST as part of the alliance. CIEE students are required to follow all relevant NTNU regulations regarding course selection and course completion. NTU and NTUST courses completed by CIEE students through NTNU will be reported on their NTNU transcript.

Arizona State University: Enhance your international academic coursework with optional online courses that best align with your degree requirements and interests. ASU offers thousands of online courses in asynchronous 7.5-week sessions that fit within the CIEE academic calendar, so you can study abroad with CIEE while continuing to meet all your academic goals.

GPA

2.5

Language Requirements

There are no specific language requirements for this program.

Additional Requirements

Please refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Requirements

Students will take two to six courses per semester for a total of 12-18 credits. All students must take a minimum of 12 U.S. semester credits at NTNU, including one Chinese language course at the Mandarin Training Center (equivalent to 7-11 U.S. credits). Students take a language placement test to be assigned to the right level.  

Students must take at least one area study course offered in Mandarin or English by other faculties at NTNU. Advanced Chinese language proficiency (at least four semesters of college-level courses) is required to enroll in a course taught in Chinese at other departments.

While students can enroll in any course offered at NTNU, more than half of their NTNU courses must be selected from the primary department that accepts them. On top of the NTNU courses, students can choose CIEE content courses taught in English.

Online Course Options: substitute up to 6 credits in area studies courses online through ASU (after required minimum 12 credits in-person courses)

Program Credit

Total credit: 12-18 U.S. semester/18-27 quarter credits

Course Credit

CIEE Courses: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 45 contact hours
CIEE Internship: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 15 seminar hours, 100-120 internship placement hours
NTNU Courses: 2-3 U.S. semester/3-4.5 quarter credits; 32-48 contact hours including NTU and NTUST courses part of the “NTU Triangle Alliance”)

Academic Culture

Students should expect to have daily homework assignments and weekly quizzes. Students are expected to work individually and complete readings and other preparation work in advance of class sections and examination periods.

Individual assignments and tests of knowledge retention are prevalent in area studies courses. Some language courses combine lectures with local field trips and excursions to help students gain a better understanding of the local culture and use their language skills with local residents. 

Class Format

Classes are typically scheduled Monday through Friday. Attendance is mandatory and absences affect final grades. Some courses include compulsory field trips with special assignments as part of class work.

Grading

In language classes, students will be graded by weekly quizzes, exams, attendance, homework assignments, oral presentations, and class participation. Grades in the content courses are generally based on class participation, a mid-term exam, research papers, oral presentations, and a final exam.

Each instructor determines the exact breakdown of grades. In most courses examinations at the end of the semester constitute a significant share of the final assessment.

Language of Instruction

English and Traditional Chinese

Course Information

Advanced Chinese language proficiency (at least four semesters of college-level courses) is required to enroll in a course taught in Chinese at other NTNU departments.  

Academic Projects

Course

Language

Semester Credit

Course INSH 3801 CTAI: Internship Seminar

Language English

Semester Credit 3

Communication, Journalism, and Media

Course

Language

Semester Credit

Course COMM 3301 CTAI: Intercultural Communication and Leadership

Language English

Semester Credit 3

Academic Projects

Course

Language

Semester Credit

Course INSH 3801 CTAI: Internship Seminar

Language English

Semester Credit 3

Communication, Journalism, and Media

Course

Language

Semester Credit

Course COMM 3301 CTAI: Intercultural Communication and Leadership

Language English

Semester Credit 3

Students can access NTNU courses at any time through the NTNU Course Information System online. If courses are unavailable for your term and year of study, search for courses offered previous year for a tentative course list to reference.

Within the Course Information System, use the “Schedule of Courses” section to browse for courses and retrieve syllabi. Search for courses by department, keeping in mind that only undergraduate courses are available to our students and are indicated by a “U” in the department code and you will need to select more than half of courses from your primary department.

The NTNU department codes for departments available to CIEE Taipei students are:

AU32: Department of Athletic Performance
OU57: Department of Business Administration
SU42: Department of Chemistry
EU06: Department of Child and Family Science
LU20: Department of Chinese
IU84: Department of Chinese as a Second Language
EU07: Department of Civic Education and Leadership
SU47: Department of Computer Science & Information Engineering
TU68: Department of Design
SU44: Department of Earth Sciences
IU83: Department of East Asian Studies
EU00: Department of Education
EU01: Department of Educational Psychology and Counseling
HU75: Department of Electrical Engineering
LU21: Department of English
TU60: Department of Fine Arts
LU23: Department of Geography
HU72: Department of Graphic Arts and Communications
EU05: Department of Health Promotion and Health Education
LU22: Department of History
HU70: Department of Industrial Education
SU43: Department of Life Science
SU40:Department of Mathematics
HU73: Department of Mechatronic Engineering
MU90: Department of Music
AU30: Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences
SU41: Department of Physics
EU09: Department of Special Education
LU26: Department of Taiwan Culture, Languages and Literature
HU71: Department of Tech. Application and Human Resource Development

Courses from NTU and NTUST offered through the “NTU Triangle Alliance” can be browsed through NTNU Departments:

9UAA: NTU Course (Undergraduate)
9UAB: NTUST Course (Undergraduate)

CIEE proudly partners with ASU to deliver asynchronous, 100% online coursework that aligns with your degree requirements from anywhere you study abroad.

CIEE and ASU offer courses online per program eligibility, at no additional charge. Be sure to review online courses with your home school advisor.

Check the CIEE Program Dates and ASU start dates below to maximize course options within your program!

Search ASU Online Courses BROWSE FAQs for more INFO

Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment.
"(GI)" denotes courses that originated at CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple CIEE sites.

Discover Internship Opportunities

We're excited you're considering this program! Next, explore the types of internships you can choose from for an epic internship abroad with CIEE Study Abroad.

Explore Industry Options

Taipei's work scene boasts a dynamic blend of tech innovation and cultural richness. A key link in the global technology supply chain, the city is home to companies like Apple Inc., Nvidia, and emerging AI industries. Workers enjoy sleek offices, a thriving tech hub, and a strong work-life balance in this urban city.

A female intern sits in front of a studio A/V board while recording

Arts, Audio/Video Technology and Communications

Immerse yourself in today's cutting-edge global media by working in film studios, media companies, the theater, and more.

Business Management and Administration

Study international business practices, multicultural leadership, and global market dynamics in Scotland, China, and more.

A intern teacher works with her students in the classroom

Education and Training

Experience international teaching methodologies and curriculum development in classrooms around Jordan, Spain, and more.

A restaurant manager reviews information on a table with a chef

Hospitality and Tourism

Polish your hospitality management skills by studying global tourism practices, customer service excellence, and more.

Marketing interns pose at a Loki premiere event

Marketing, Sales and Service

Explore global market dynamics, cross-cultural consumer engagement, and sales techniques in firms, agencies, and companies.

Two female interns work on an engineering project

Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics

Gain hands-on skills in sustainable technologies, research projects, and scientific studies in Costa Rica, Mexico, and more.

Browse Internship Opportunities

Explore internship placements available through this program to find the right fit for your academic and professional goals.


Research Assistant Spring 2025 Research Assistant Taipei, Taiwan Job Type Media Company Industry Human Services About the Role As a Research Assistant, you will support newsletter research and boost our social media presence, gaining hands-on experience in engaging international audiences across Twitter (11K followers), LinkedIn, and Facebook. You’ll learn to craft newsletters and summarize news for the audience, while also attending association events and networking with partners in the public sector, NGOs, academia, and private industry. About the Company This association champions participatory and digital diplomacy by initiating multinational projects with authentic engagement and community localization. It strengthens Taiwan’s international partnerships through digital content, live events, and empowers youth to explore new public diplomacy avenues, fostering innovation in social media marketing for both government and private sectors in Taiwan. Interested in an internship like this one? Apply to this program to have access to an internship like this. Apply on MyCIEE	Human Services	Media


Event and Outreach Intern Fall 2024 Event and Outreach Intern Taipei, Taiwan Job Type Arts Company Industry Arts, Audio/Video Technology and Communications About the Role In this internship you would identify festivals and competitions across the USA and EU, noting locations, schedules, and durations. Develop an application timeline and ensure all company and project details are complete. Research and contact key figures at festivals and venues, sending cold emails with materials to explore touring opportunities. Conclude with a slide report suggesting actionable steps and potential 2025/2026 benefits. In English teaching, provide weekly sessions on pitch delivery, self and company introductions, and performing arts vocabulary, including technical term instruction during Time Traveler rehearsals. About the Company This dance ensemble celebrates Taiwan’s vibrant culture through innovative contemporary performances rooted in traditional themes. By blending folk elements with modern choreography, the group creates dynamic pieces that reflect Taiwan’s unique heritage. Their expressive works captivate audiences worldwide, bridging cultural divides through a fresh, powerful interpretation of Taiwanese identity. Interested in an internship like this one? Apply to this program to have access to an internship like this. Apply on MyCIEE	Arts, Audio/Video Technology and Communications	Arts
Research Intern Fall 2024 Research Intern Taipei, Taiwan Job Type Environmental/Sustainability Company Industry Education and Training About the Role As an intern, you'll have the chance to dive into meaningful projects, including conducting research, supporting community-driven conservation initiatives, and promoting educational programs that inspire a deeper connection with wildlife and nature. This is a unique opportunity to make a real impact and learn from some of the best in the field. About the Company This organization is dedicated to promoting environmental conservation, animal welfare, and sustainable development. It focuses on protecting endangered species and habitats, supporting community-driven conservation efforts, and advancing scientific research. Through global education initiatives, it inspires individuals to take action for the planet’s future and the well-being of all living beings. Interested in an internship like this one? Apply to this program to have access to an internship like this. Apply on MyCIEE	Education and Training	Environmental/Sustainability
Research Assistant Fall 2024 Research Assistant Taipei, Taiwan Job Type Media Company Industry Human Services About the Role As a Research Assistant, you will support newsletter research and boost our social media presence, gaining hands-on experience in engaging international audiences across Twitter (11K followers), LinkedIn, and Facebook. You’ll learn to craft newsletters and summarize news for the audience, while also attending association events and networking with partners in the public sector, NGOs, academia, and private industry. About the Company This association champions participatory and digital diplomacy by initiating multinational projects with authentic engagement and community localization. It strengthens Taiwan’s international partnerships through digital content, live events, and empowers youth to explore new public diplomacy avenues, fostering innovation in social media marketing for both government and private sectors in Taiwan. Interested in an internship like this one? Apply to this program to have access to an internship like this. Apply on MyCIEE	Human Services	Media
Program Intern Fall 2024 Program Intern Taipei, Taiwan Job Type Other Company Industry Government and Public Administration About the Role The Internship Program offers: 1. Mentorship: Interns work closely with the think tank's senior staff and research fellows. This unique dynamic allows them to receive regular feedback on their performance, and also voice their insights about their experience at the think tank. They greatly appreciate the importance of the feedback loop, as an internship ought to be a mutually beneficial opportunity. 2. Opportunity: At the foundation, no two days are the same. Interns will have an opportunity to become actively engaged in the works of a dynamically growing research. About the Company This organization is a not-for-profit foundation dedicated to policy research and public advocacy to address three major challenges Taiwan faces: 1) Globalization, 2) Cross-Strait Relations, and 3) Democratic and Societal Transitions. This thinktank focuses on policy research, recommendations, public discourse, and deliberation. They host various types of public events, forums, panels, and boot camps, to unlock the value and talents in grass-root movements. They believe our in-depth engagement will generate public policies that shall best serve the needs of the Taiwanese public and its prosperous future. Interested in an internship like this one? Apply to this program to have access to an internship like this. Apply on MyCIEE	Government and Public Administration	Other

Disclaimer: Internship placements are subject to availability and host employer hiring discretion. Application and payment of CIEE fees does not guarantee specific placement. This internship listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party.

Scholarships & Grants

CIEE offers scholarships and grants annually to help students like you make your study abroad dream a reality.

Students who apply to this program are eligible for the following scholarships and grants:

Wollitzer Merit Scholarships in Area or Comparative Studies
Ping Scholarships for Academic Excellence
Global Access Initiative (GAIN) Grants
CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
MSI Grant

To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application.

Dates & Fees

You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with CIEE, because our high-quality programs include everything from excursions to insurance. There are no hidden charges, and no disappointing surprises when you arrive.

Program	Application Due	Start Date	End Date	Fees & Housing
Program Spring 2025 17 weeks	Application Due Deadline Passed	Start Date February 9, 2025	End Date June 9, 2025	Fees & Housing $19,950
Program Fall 2025 17 weeks	May 1, 2025	Start Date August 23, 2025 ^*	End Date December 20, 2025 ^*	Fees & Housing $19,950
Program Fall 2024 16 weeks	Application Due Deadline Passed	Start Date August 31, 2024	End Date December 22, 2024	Fees & Housing $19,850
Program Academic year 2024-2025 40 weeks	Application Due Deadline Passed	Start Date August 31, 2024	End Date June 9, 2025	Fees & Housing $38,800

^*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.

To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses. In addition, your college or university may charge additional fees for study abroad, or may require you to receive a transcript via CIEE's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation = $300^*

Educational Costs = $15,456^**

Housing = $4,000^***

Insurance = $194

Total Fees = $19,950

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee = $1,764

International Airfare = $1,000^†

Local Transportation = $160

Books & Supplies = $25

Visa Fees = $195^††

Personal expenses = $240^†††

Other = $150

Total Costs = $3,534

Optional Housing

CIEE accommodation options are detailed in the Housing section. Based on availability, Select or Select Plus Housing can be chosen during the application process for an additional fee. Housing is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis; however, other factors may also be considered.

Select Housing Fee = $1,500

Select Plus Housing Fee = $2,500

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

^*non-refundable fee

^**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

^***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.

^†round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure

^††US 185 for a Visitor Visa and TWD 300 (US 10) for visa extension

^†††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

Program Fees

Participation Confirmation = $300^*

Educational Costs = $15,456^**

Housing = $4,000^***

Insurance = $194

Total Fees = $19,950

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee = $1,666

International Airfare = $1,000^†

Local Transportation = $160

Books & Supplies = $25

Visa Fees = $185

Personal expenses = $240^††

Other = $150

Total Costs = $3,426

Financial Aid

^*non-refundable fee

^**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

^***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.

^†round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure

^††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

Program Fees

Participation Confirmation = $300^*

Educational Costs = $13,356^**

Housing = $6,000^***

Insurance = $194

Total Fees = $19,850

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee = $1,568

International Airfare = $1,000^†

Local Transportation = $160

Books & Supplies = $25

Visa Fees = $185

Personal expenses = $240^††

Other = $150

Total Costs = $3,328

Optional Housing

Select Housing Fee = $750

Select Plus Housing Fee = $1,500

Financial Aid

^*non-refundable fee

^**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

^***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.

^†round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure

^††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

Program Fees

Participation Confirmation = $300^*

Educational Costs = $28,306^**

Housing = $10,000^***

Insurance = $194

Total Fees = $38,800

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee = $1,568

International Airfare = $1,000^†

Local Transportation = $160

Books & Supplies = $25

Visa Fees = $185

Personal expenses = $240^††

Other = $150

Total Costs = $3,328

Optional Housing

Select Housing Fee = $750

Select Plus Housing Fee = $1,500

Financial Aid