COURSE CURRICULUM

The BA East Asian Studies program provides a structured yet flexible curriculum that allows students to develop a deep understanding of the cultures, histories, and societies of China, Japan, and the wider East Asian region. In the first year, students are introduced to foundational topics through core units in Chinese and Japanese studies, while optional courses explore visual cultures, historical developments, and imperial influences across East Asia. In the second year, students can deepen their knowledge by examining themes such as China’s borderlands, classical Chinese language, late imperial Chinese history, and aspects of Japanese society including gender, sexuality, and postwar visual culture. The program encourages interdisciplinary thinking, integrating historical, cultural, and social perspectives. In the final year, students may pursue advanced topics such as religions in China, socialism in China, business Chinese, science and civilization in East Asia, Buddhism in Japan, and contemporary cultural and gender issues across the region. Students also undertake a dissertation in Modern Languages and Cultures, allowing them to apply research skills to a topic of their choice and gain specialized expertise. Throughout the degree, students develop analytical, linguistic, and research skills that prepare them for careers in international relations, education, business, cultural management, and further academic study, fostering both regional knowledge and global awareness.