Mandarin Chinese course

In today’s increasingly international business environment, the ability to understand and speak Chinese—even at a basic level—is a valuable skill for professionals. As China plays a dominant role in global trade and finance, professionals who can engage in simple conversations in Chinese gain an advantage in both their daily lives and careers.

This course provides professionals with a practical foundation in Mandarin Chinese, enabling them to navigate everyday situations and basic business interactions in Chinese-speaking environments. Whether it’s introducing oneself at a business event, handling invitations and congratulations, or reading a business card—participants will develop the linguistic and cultural skills needed to operate with confidence.

Learning outcomes

Upon completion of the course, participants will be able to:

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• Introduce themselves and their organization in a professional context;

• Perform basic practical tasks such as scheduling meetings, giving directions, and requesting information;

• Engage in simple conversations during business events;

• Apply culturally appropriate business etiquette;

• Recognize key business vocabulary (e.g., job titles, departments, common email phrases, and signage).

Course content

The full program spans 6 months and includes 24 sessions of 1.5 hours each (totaling 36 hours per level), delivered in small groups of 6–10 participants. The course is designed to develop communicative skills based on realistic business and cultural scenarios.

The course consists of two consecutive levels, each comprising 36 hours of instruction:

Level 1 – Beginner Course (Parts 1 & 2 – 36 hours)
Designed for absolute beginners (Level A0) with no prior knowledge of Chinese. Focused on basic communication for simple work and life situations.

Part 1: Introduction & daily tasks

• Introducing yourself and your company;

• Exchanging business cards;

• Discussing professional experience and hobbies;

• Managing practical needs.

Part 2: Workplace interaction

• Using common workplace expressions;

• Scheduling meetings and appointments;

• Participating in physical and online meetings;

• Writing meeting summaries via email.

Level 2 – Follow-Up Course (Parts 3 & 4 – 36 hours)
For participants who have completed the beginner level or possess A1-level proficiency.

Part 3: Business visits & social interaction

• Describing and comparing products/services;

• Reading charts and discussing results;

• Giving suggestions and compliments;

• Applying politeness norms and etiquette in the workplace.

Part 4: Business expansion & networking

• Discussing factory visits and production;

• Networking at trade fairs;

• Introducing products and/or services to potential clients;

• Negotiating pricing and related terms.

Course format

Each session is led by an experienced Mandarin instructor. Participants receive custom digital learning materials, listening exercises, flashcards, quizzes, and weekly revision tasks. Additional learning resources are available via the cloud for self-study.
The program can be followed on-site at Utrecht Business School or online via digital learning.

Target audience

This course is designed for professionals who:

• Interact with Chinese-speaking clients, colleagues, or business partners;

• Need to travel to or work in Chinese-speaking countries;

• Wish to develop basic language and cultural skills to communicate more effectively and build relationships in a business context.

Data & Investment

Both the on-site and digital programs start on a monthly basis.
The investment depends on the preferred format and duration.
For more information, please contact Nomair van Wijk.

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