Overview
HSK 2 (Mandarin Chinese) is a 40 hour part-time short course ideal for beginners looking to learn Mandarin. HSK 2 is the second of six HSK courses. We offer HSK certificates levels 1-6 - see further information on the CITCM website.
HSK level 2 enables you to learn an additional 150 words to those words learnt at HSK level 1: you will be able to deal with simple tasks requiring a direct exchange of information on introducing one's families, residence, hobbies, specialities, showing gratitude, apologies, welcomes, specific time, shopping, transportation, emotions, suggestions, comparisons, etc.
HSK is an international standardised exam that tests and rates Chinese language proficiency. There are six test levels and test takers who pass the six HSK exams will be able to progress from being able to master simple Chinese phrases to effectively express themselves both orally and on paper. Obtaining the HSK 2 certificate gives you an internationally recognised qualification of competency in Chinese.
This course is delivered by the Confucius Institute for Traditional Chinese Medicine (CITCM) which promotes Chinese culture and Chinese Medicine by providing a range of workshops and courses.
Location
London South Bank University student union is located at 103 Borough Rd, London SE1 0AA.
If you are visiting our Southwark Campus, you may wish to use our downloadable campus map (PNG File 466 KB). For information on accessibility, see our DisabledGo access guides.
Walk or bicycle
The University is in easy walking distance of underground and leading overground stations. We are only 20 minutes away from the Thames. We encourage walking and cycling and have bicycle racks on campus. Please check the Transport for London cycling website for London cycling maps and route planners.
By bus
LSBU is very well connected, and a large number of buses travel to and connect in the Elephant and Castle area from across London.
By train or tube
The Bakerloo and Northern lines stop at Elephant & Castle underground station, which is right next to campus. The closest rail stations are Elephant & Castle, London Waterloo and London Bridge. To plan your train journey, visit the National Rail website.
By car
London South Bank University does not provide public parking space. There is a limited amount of parking in the area, so we strongly advise using public transport.
Do consider the Congestion Charge if you are driving through London to reach the campus. Find out if you'll be crossing the Congestion Charge zone to reach our Southwark Campus.
TfL journey planner
You can travel to Southwark Campus by using public transport, plan your journey using the Transport for London journey planner.
Entry Level Requirements
You must have completed HSK 1 to undertake HSK 2.
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Advanced entry
If you have already completed some studies at another university, we may be able to consider you for advanced entry. Please see our advanced entry page for more information.
The cost of the course is £360 plus an exam fee.
LSBU students are eligible for a discount and pay £200 for the course.
Apply direct to the Confucius Institute ci4tcm@lsbu.ac.uk, include your name and contact number.
Email enquiries: ci4tcm@lsbu.ac.uk
Telephone enquiries: 0207 815 7269
You are able to start studying in January, April or September.
For further details, please see the CITCM website.
Prepare to start
You will be given details about the course prior to starting and welcomed to the University.
Careers
Employability Service
At LSBU, we want to set you up for a successful career. During your studies – and for two years after you graduate – you’ll have access to our Employability Service, which includes:
- Free employability workshop and events for student all year round, more details can be found on our event section.
- Online board where you can see a wide range of placements: part-time, full-time or voluntary. You can also drop in to see our Job Shop advisers, who are always available to help you take the next step in your search.
- LSBU Careers Hub offering group workshops on CVs, interview techniques and support, guidance on future careers, as well as loads of career resources, connecting you with employers, exciting events, 1-1 support and relevant workshops.
Our Student Enterprise team can also help you start your own business and develop valuable entrepreneurial skills.
The HSK qualification is an international examination scheme which gives employers evidence of your linguist abilities in Mandarin Chinese. We offer HSK certificates levels 1-6 - see further information on the CITCM website.
Teaching and Assessment
- Two hours contact teaching per week
- Seven hours self study per week
- Classes are offered on lunchtimes and evenings
- There is no coursework but you will be given exercises and worksheets to help you with your self-study
- Examinations are run every month to make it flexible for the learner
Student feedback
Studying for HSK level 1 and 2 with the Confucius Institute for TCM is a fun and educational introduction to the interesting language of Mandarin.
Keith Would,
The HSK Mandarin course offered by the Confucius Institute makes learning another language fun and accessible for everyone. Lessons are well-structured, progression is intuitive and I enjoyed level 1 so much that when I finished I signed up for level 2 straight away. This course is very highly recommended!
Tasnim Patel,