Mandarin certificates

Mandarin certificates provide basic instruction in Mandarin Chinese. Whether you want to teach English to native Mandarin speakers or expand your global business opportunities, a certificate in Mandarin might help. Read on to learn about different Mandarin certificates and how to decide whether this is the right path for you.

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Student Answering Questions During Chinese Language Class

Why earn a Mandarin certificate online?

Short course of study

It generally takes about three months to earn a certificate in Mandarin. While you won’t be fluent by the end of your course, you will have a strong foundation in the language.

Potential job opportunities

As the world becomes more interconnected, knowing another language could help you stand out as a competitor for a role in virtually any industry.

Personal fulfillment

It’s human nature to be curious about others and to strive for connections. Learning Mandarin can help you feel more fulfilled, as it can open up communication with millions of potential new friends or business contacts.

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What you'll learn

A Mandarin certificate can teach you what you need to know to have a working command of Mandarin Chinese. Courses can help you learn:

General rules, characters, and structures
Basic grammar and phrasing
Common words and phrases for business or personal communication
Cultural considerations
Regional variations

What can you do with a certificate in Mandarin?

A Mandarin certificate shows that you have a basic working knowledge of Mandarin Chinese. Many people earn this certificate to expand their skills, either personally or professionally. In addition, a certificate in Mandarin could open up job opportunities, such as:

Interpreter or translator

Interpreters and translators convert one language into another. Interpreters deal with the spoken word, while translators work on written documents. Some professionals specialize in one area, such as healthcare interpreters or literary translators, while others provide services as needed throughout the community.

Required skills: Ability to communicate in two languages, clear speaking and/or writing skills, attention to detail, organization, time management
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) median annual salary (2023): $57,090

ESL teacher

Teaching English as a second language (ESL) to native Mandarin speakers can be highly fulfilling for those with a passion for education. Depending on where you work, a bachelor’s degree in education may be required along with your Mandarin certificate.

Required skills: Ability to communicate in two languages, organization, lesson planning
BLS median annual salary (2023): $60,560

Frequently asked questions

Is a Mandarin certificate worth it?

A Mandarin certificate can be worth it if you want to expand your business reach or work directly with native Mandarin speakers. You can choose a program that focuses on business communications or one with a broader scope.

How long does it take to earn a Mandarin certificate?

You can typically earn a certificate in Mandarin in about three months. There are different programs to choose from, and some people go on to earn multiple certificates.

How do you choose the right Mandarin certificate?

Here are some things to consider when choosing a Mandarin certificate:

Applications: If your primary concern is communicating with business clients or coworkers, choose a business-focused program. If you are more interested in teaching, translating, or simply broadening your communication skills, a more general track is usually best.
Program style: Do you prefer a self-paced course or an instructor-led program? Do you learn languages best through reading and examinations or daily conversations? Look for a course that mirrors your preferred learning style.
Related certificates: Some people start with a foundational Mandarin certificate and then choose to advance their study of the language. To keep your options open, consider a school that offers multiple certificate programs and perhaps even a bachelor’s degree in Mandarin.

Published July 7, 2025