The Current Status and Challenges of Master’s Education in Chinese Language Education in Central and Eastern Europe: A Case Study of Eötvös Loránd University, Hungary

Abstract

Central and Eastern Europe has a profound tradition in Sinology, with its master’s programmes in Sinology historically focusing on areas such as Chinese phonetics, literature, history, and philosophy. However, as economic and cultural cooperation between Central and Eastern Europe and China continues to deepen, the demand for Chinese language professionals has become increasingly diversified. In recent years, the rapid development of Sino-Hungarian relations has led to a significant influx of Chinese enterprises into Hungary, further driving the transformation and innovation of master’s education in Chinese language education. This paper takes Eötvös Loránd University in Hungary as a case study to explore the current status and challenges of master’s education in Chinese language education in Central and Eastern Europe. It analyses the transition from traditional Sinology master’s programmes to a diversified ‘Chinese+’ training model and proposes future development strategies.