Learn Mandarin Chinese
Mandarin Chinese, the standard language of China and Taiwan, is the second-most spoken language in the world. Whether you need a few phrases for traveling or are mastering Mandarin for business, online Mandarin Chinese courses can give you the skills to communicate across cultures and create genuine global connections.
Learn about the benefits of taking a Mandarin Chinese course online, and explore the edX library of Mandarin courses in this guide.
Why learn Mandarin Chinese online?
Mandarin Chinese is a Chinese dialect originating from Beijing, the capital of China. Over 1.1 billion people speak Mandarin Chinese, making it the second-most commonly spoken language behind English. Therefore, flexible online Mandarin courses may be useful for work or travel and communicating with business partners, friends, and service workers.
Online Mandarin language programs often take 6–8 weeks to complete. While many of these courses are free, some may cost $500 or more, depending on the institution. Some schools also offer online certificates or specialized Mandarin programs, such as for business or travel.
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Choosing the right Mandarin Chinese program for you
The right Mandarin program for you depends on your language needs. Consider the following factors when picking your program:
- Program length
- Cost
- Experience level
- Issuing institution
- Certifications
- Desired outcome
Courses
Mandarin courses offer instruction from language experts who can help you immerse in Chinese culture as you learn. edX's online course library includes foundational classes that discuss Chinese characters, proper tone, and listening comprehension. While these courses are free, you can upgrade to earn a certificate. Certificate costs vary depending on the course but range between $50–$300.
Explore jobs for Mandarin Chinese speakers
Mandarin speakers can connect with over a billion speakers worldwide — making them an asset to a variety of international organizations. People with Mandarin skills can go on to land jobs in global industries like manufacturing, healthcare, and economics. After becoming fluent in Mandarin Chinese, students can also apply for language jobs like translator, interpreter, or educator.
Interpreters and translators
Interpreters and translators work throughout industries to transfer information from one language to another. They may translate written documents or interpret verbal communication.
- Required education: Bachelor's degree or equivalent fluency in Mandarin
- Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) median annual salary (2023): $57,090
- BLS projected annual job growth (2023–33): 2%
English as a second language (ESL) teachers
ESL teachers help adult Mandarin speakers learn to read and speak English. These English skills may help students assimilate into a new culture and land higher-paying jobs. Many ESL teachers work at public schools, community colleges, and adult education centers.
- Required education: Bachelor's degree and license or certification
- BLS median annual salary (2023): $60,560
- BLS projected annual job growth (2023–33): -13%
Foreign language and literature teachers
A Mandarin foreign language and literature teacher instructs students on how to read and write Mandarin and interpret literature. These teachers may teach language basics or help advanced students decipher cultural and historical signifiers and literary devices in literature. These teachers often work in school systems but may also be independent tutors.
- Required education: Bachelor's degree and license or certification
- BLS median annual salary (2023): $78,760
BLS projected annual job growth (2023–33):1%
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