COURSE CURRICULUM

The East Asian Studies BA provides an in-depth understanding of the history, culture, society, and politics of China, Japan, and Korea, allowing students to explore the region from multiple perspectives. In the first year, students study core modules covering arts, history, culture, politics, economy, and society in East Asia, while choosing a pathway that aligns with their interests, such as Korean, Japanese, or Chinese language, cultural studies, cross-cultural studies, or advanced Chinese studies. These pathways enable students to develop foundational language skills and gain insight into contemporary regional challenges. In the second year, students continue to build expertise through advanced language study, modules on global citizenship, and optional modules exploring film, television, history, international relations, and ethnography, further developing critical thinking and analytical skills. In the third year, students following language or cultural pathways typically spend a year abroad in an East Asian country, gaining immersive experience in the region and applying their knowledge in a real-world context. Those on the advanced Chinese pathway focus on contemporary challenges in China through specialist modules. Across all years, the course emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, combining historical, political, sociological, and cultural perspectives to equip graduates with the skills and knowledge for careers in international business, diplomacy, research, education, and other roles requiring expertise in East Asia.