The Chinese Flagship program is a relatively young addition to the University of Minnesota. What is now a well-developed, highly-competitive program was in its infancy 5 years ago in 2013, when Professor Joe Allen, then the head of the Department of Asian Languages and Literatures (ALL) (now Asian and Middle Eastern Studies, AMES), applied to house the program at the University.

In 2000, Professor Allen came to the University of Minnesota to establish the Department of Asian Languages and Literatures (ALL), bring language programs up to contemporary standards, and make programs attractive to students. Through the efforts of Professor Allen and faculty and staff, ALL was shaped into the dynamic and innovative department of today, offering courses in the study of the languages, literatures, cultures, and media from West to South to East Asia.

In 2013, Professor Allen began the process of applying to establish the Flagship program at the University. Not only was he confident in the quality of language instruction at the department, he also believed that the Flagship program would be advantageous for the University as an “all-encompassing program for students.”

The Chinese Flagship program’s mission is becoming increasingly relevant as China becomes a major player in the global economy. According to Professor Allen, “The Flagship program trains a variety of professionals to work in the world in a bilingual and bicultural way.” The program provides the structure and support for students to gain a deep understanding of Chinese language and culture, while completing a variety of degrees across majors and colleges.

Looking towards the future, Professor Allen hopes that the Chinese Flagship program can continue moving beyond where the program started and gain a more international profile. He further stated that the Chinese Flagship program could become something more than a means of training a small group of students and “change how universities think about language studies—that is, as a core rather than a peripheral subject.”

Originally published in Chinese Flagship Newsletter, 2019 April Issue.