COURSE CURRICULUM

The South and Southeast Asian Studies bachelor’s program at Leiden University is a three-year interdisciplinary degree designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the region’s history, cultures, languages, and contemporary societies. In the first year, students follow core courses that introduce the major historical and cultural developments of South and Southeast Asia. They also choose one of four languages—Hindi, Sanskrit, Tibetan, or Indonesian—devoting a third of their study time to language learning in the first two years. Additionally, students select introductory courses on one of the region’s major religions: Buddhism, Hinduism, or Islam. Elective courses allow students to explore areas of personal interest and begin developing academic and research skills.In the second year, students specialise in either Modern South and Modern Southeast Asia or Classical Cultures of South and Southeast Asia, selecting courses tailored to their chosen focus. There is also the option to take a course from the other track, providing a broad perspective. Students continue language study and participate in a seminar designed to strengthen research, analytical, and academic writing skills, preparing them for more advanced study in their final year.The third year emphasizes practical experience and immersion. During the first semester, students spend time abroad to deepen their language skills and cultural understanding. Indonesian students study at Gadjah Mada University in Yogyakarta, Hindi students at the University of Hyderabad, and Sanskrit or Tibetan students at the Rangjung Yeshe Institute in Kathmandu, Nepal. The program concludes with the writing of a bachelor’s thesis, where students apply the research, analytical, and language skills they have developed over the course of the program.Graduates emerge with advanced linguistic abilities, deep cultural insight, and strong analytical and research skills, preparing them for careers in diplomacy, international organisations, research, development, business, and for further academic study.