Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit is an interdisciplinary learning experience that offers students specific knowledge of the context shaping the development and application of the law in a very different jurisdiction. The Unit facilitates understanding of the historical, cultural and economic background of Chinese law and its impact on China and cross-border engagements. It provides: (1) understanding of key social, cultural and economic contexts that are widely ignored or misinterpreted when discussing Chinese law and reforms; (2) details of how changes take place in important branches of Chinese laws; and (3) essential cultural and risk management skills for advising foreign companies entering into China and for engaging Chinese clients.

The unit aims to dramatically broaden students' holistic, independent and critical purview in China knowledge, which has been viewed by top-tier law firms and companies as a crucial but widely absent skill when dealing with Chinese clients.

Credit
6 points
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) describe major aspects of Chinese laws, including relevant legal, social and economic reforms; (2) evaluate cultural and risk management strategies in advising foreign companies doing business in China; (3) apply communication, collaboration, thinking and research skills in China-related deals; (4) demonstrate high-level theoretical and practical understanding of how law operates in China through lectures, independent research and group work; (5) demonstrate intellectual and practical skills to communicate to non-legal audiences with an interest in Chinese law or business; and (6) critically analyse Chinese law and reforms to create customised and appropriate solutions for clients doing business in China.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) presentation; (2) reflective essay; and (3) research paper. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Professor Ken Shao
Unit rules
Prerequisites
for Juris Doctor (JD) students: LAWS4101 Foundations of Law and Lawyering
and 30 points from: LAWS4102 Criminal Law, LAWS4103 Contract, LAWS4104 Property, LAWS4106 Torts, LAWS4107 Land Law, LAWS4108 Foundations of Public Law, LAWS5106 Legal Theory and Ethics
or LAWS4109 Legal Theory and Ethics).
Contact hours
Intensive
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.