The Department of Chinese Language and Literature offers four degree programmes, two by programme work (BA Hons, MA) and two by research (MPhil, PhD). These programmes not only help students to gain sound knowledge in Chinese literature, linguistics and culture, but also emphasize training in critical thinking and research methodology. Courses on important works in Chinese translation of Western literature and Western literary theories may also be offered in order to encourage multi-perspective study. The Department cultivates the graduates to be knowledgeable in Chinese language, literature and culture with an independent mind and a broad vision.

The Department pays great attention not only to quality teaching, but also to academic activities and research. On a regular basis, the Department organizes international conferences, invites well-known visiting scholars to give speeches, publishes the book series Literature and Religion, and co-sponsors the refereed journal Sino-Humanitas.