The demand for Chinese language proficiency is rising faster than ever. According to the Report of LinkedIn’s Global Skills, language and cross-cultural communication skills are now included in the top 10 soft skills valued worldwide.
As we all know, China is the world’s second-largest economy and a dominant player in international trade. Learning Mandarin is no longer just about culture. It’s now a big advantage for your career worldwide.
If you’re a student, professional, traveler, or entrepreneur, having expertise in Mandarin can open doors to business, education, and cultural opportunities across Asia and beyond.
Here I am providing all details regarding the Free Online Chinese Course by Peking University on Coursera. It provides a flexible and beginner-friendly opportunity to start learning this high-demand language from one of China’s most prestigious institutions.

About Free Online Chinese Course
The Free Online Chinese Course is created by Peking University, one of the top-ranked universities in Asia. It is hosted on Coursera. This course is designed for absolute beginners with no prior knowledge of Chinese. It teaches essential Mandarin skills, focusing on pronunciation, daily communication, and listening comprehension.
You’ll learn practical phrases for real-life experience, like introductions, shopping, food, travel, and more. Everything is guided by expert instructors from Peking University.
With over 1.4 million learners enrolled and a stellar 4.8-star rating, it stands as one of the most popular language courses online.
Quick Highlights
| Course Title | Free Online Chinese Course by Peking University | 
| Offered By | Peking University | 
| Platform | Coursera | 
| Duration | Approx. 10–12 hours (self-paced) | 
| Mode | 100% Online | 
| Level | Beginner | 
| Eligibility | Open to all learners worldwide | 
| Language of Instruction | English (available in 23 subtitles) | 
| Certificate | Shareable Coursera Certificate (optional) | 
| Fees | Free to enroll (paid certificate available) | 
Who can apply for the Free Online Chinese Course?
This course welcomes everyone interested in learning Mandarin. Here, no prior language experience or degree is required. All you need is a computer or smartphone with internet access and the willingness to practice. It’s ideal for:
- Students aiming for international studies or exchange programs
- Professionals working with Chinese companies or clients
- Travelers and cultural enthusiasts
- Entrepreneurs and freelancers expanding to global markets
What You Will Learn from a Free Online Chinese Course?
Throughout seven engaging modules, you’ll master:
- Pinyin & Tones: Learn the foundation of Chinese pronunciation
- Basic Grammar & Vocabulary: Build confidence with simple sentence patterns
- Daily Conversations: Talk about food, weather, shopping, and directions
- Listening & Speaking Practice: Improve pronunciation and fluency
- Cultural Insights: Understand Chinese etiquette and traditions
At the end, you’ll be able to hold basic conversations, introduce yourself, ask questions, and navigate simple real-world situations in Chinese.
Also Read: 100% Free Online Certification Courses in 2025
Career Opportunities After Learning a Free Online Chinese Course
Learning Mandarin can open doors to global career opportunities across multiple industries. As China’s global influence grows, bilingual professionals are increasingly in demand.
Earning a certificate from Peking University via Coursera adds credibility to your resume or LinkedIn profile. It signals cultural intelligence and adaptability skills highly prized in today’s international workforce.
After completing this course, you can explore roles such as:
- Translator or Interpreter – Work with global firms, embassies, or media agencies.
- International Business Executive – Manage trade, partnerships, and cross-border projects.
- Tourism & Hospitality Professional – Assist Chinese travelers and expand global tourism networks.
- Educator or Online Tutor – Teach Chinese or English to global students.
- Cultural Liaison or Diplomat – Work in international relations and cultural exchange.
- Content Creator or Marketing Specialist – Create content for both Asian and Western audiences.
You can gain access to international business, education, travel, and diplomatic sectors, making you a more competitive and globally employable professional.
| Country | Average Salary (Bilingual Roles) | 
| USA | $58,000 – $75,000 | 
| UK | £30,000 – £50,000 | 
| Canada | CAD 55,000 – CAD 70,000 | 
| India | ₹6–10 LPA | 
| Australia | AUD 65,000 – AUD 80,000 | 
Also Read: 5 Free AI Courses for Beginners to Learn Artificial Intelligence in 2025
How to Apply?
- Visit the official website and enroll here
- Then start learning
Special Benefits
- You will receive a certificate from Peking University after completing the course.
- Join a global community of language learners and connect with people from different countries.
- Enjoy interactive lessons that include videos, quizzes, and real conversation practice.
- Learn at your own speed with a flexible, self-paced schedule perfect for busy learners.
- Enroll for free, and if you wish, get a paid certificate to boost your career opportunities.
Roadmap to Learn This Course
Module Breakdown:
- Who Are You? – Introductions, nationality, family, and basic greetings
- When Do You Go to School? – Numbers, time, and daily activities
- What Do You Like to Eat? – Food, drinks, and dining conversations
- I Like Shopping! – Colors, bargaining, and describing objects
- Do You Live in a Big City? – Directions, transportation, and places
- How About the Weather? – Weather expressions and seasons
- What Is Your Hobby? – Talking about hobbies, sports, and entertainment
Each module combines video lectures, quizzes, pronunciation practice, and mini assignments to reinforce what you learn.
Pro Tips for Learners
- Practice daily. Consistency matters more than long sessions.
- Use Pinyin tools like Google Input to type and speak in Mandarin.
- Watch Chinese shows or listen to podcasts to improve comprehension.
- Join Coursera’s discussion forums to connect with global learners.
- Earn the certificate to boost your LinkedIn and CV credibility.
FAQs
Who is this course best suited for?
Anyone interested in learning Mandarin, from students to working professionals or travelers.
What skills will I gain after completion?
You’ll learn conversational Mandarin, basic grammar, pronunciation, and vocabulary for daily communication.
Are there job or freelance opportunities after this course?
Yes, language skills open opportunities in translation, teaching, business communication, and tourism.
Is certification included?
Yes, you’ll receive an optional Coursera certificate from Peking University after completing the course.
Can beginners apply, or is experience needed?
It’s designed for complete beginners—no prior Chinese knowledge required.
What is the average salary after learning Mandarin?
Depending on your role and location, bilingual professionals earn 20–40% higher salaries than monolingual peers.
 
					