Mandarin Chinese for Teaching at Post-Primary Level

The Postgraduate Diploma/Postgraduate Certificate/Professional Certificate in Mandarin Chinese for Teaching at Post-Primary Level aims to provide domestic and international candidates with an opportunity to engage in an accelerated programme of studies specifically tailored to meet the Teaching Council of Ireland’s requirements for registration as an accredited teacher of Mandarin Chinese at post-primary level. It is intended for candidates who already possess a Professional Masters of Education (PME) or equivalent or those who intend to pursue a PME upon completion of this postgraduate diploma.



The proposed programme follows a two-pronged approach by offering intensive studies areas in both Mandarin Chinese language and Chinese literary and cultural studies. As a result, students’ knowledge and understanding of important concepts in Chinese culture and society will be enhanced.

Module code Module title

CN610 Mandarin Chinese 7

CN611 Readings in Contemporary Chinese Culture and Current Affairs I

CN613 Conflict and Communication: A Changing China in a Globalizing World I

CN61X Chinese Language Skills for Native and Heritage Speakers

CN620 Mandarin Chinese 8

CN621 Readings in Contemporary Chinese Culture and Current Affairs II

CN623 Conflict and Communication: A Changing China in a Globalizing World II

CN62X Pedagogical Approaches to Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language

CN63X Project-based Learning: Chinese Language and Culture

Applicants are required to have a BA in a language, linguistics, literary/cultural studies, or a cognate discipline (with at least a II.2 degree), or equivalent.



CEFR Proficiency level B2.2/HSL level 4 in Mandarin Chinese and CEFR Proficiency level B2.2 in English



Applicants must have a recognised primary degree which is considered equivalent to Irish university primary degree level.



Minimum English language requirements: please visit Maynooth University International Office website for information about English language tests accepted and required scores. The requirements specified are applicable for both EU and non- EU applicants.



National University of Ireland Maynooth’s TOEFL code is 8850

Applications are open for the 2025/6 academic year. Visit our online application portal to start your application.

We are here to support you throughout the admissions process.



For queries on your postgraduate course options please contact pgstudies@mu.ie

For queries or support on your application process please contact pgadmissions@mu.ie



If you are an international (Non-EU) applicant please contact internationaladmissions@mu.ie

1 year Full-time or 2 years part-time

Commences September

The Postgraduate Diploma in Chinese for Teaching at Post-Primary Level is intended for candidates who already possess a Professional Masters of Education (PME), or equivalent, or those who intend on pursuing a PME upon completion of this postgraduate diploma with the end goal of becoming fully accredited post-primary teachers of Chinese in Ireland. The Postgraduate Diploma programme may also serve as an entry route to further studies in Chinese.