COURSE CURRICULUM

The East Asian Studies and International Relations BA at Leeds offers students a flexible and interdisciplinary approach, combining the study of East Asia with the field of international relations. In the first year, students can choose from optional modules such as Basic Chinese, Japanese or Thai language, Foundations of East Asia, and modules on the history and culture of modern China and Japan, providing a strong regional foundation. In the second year, compulsory modules focus on International Relations theory and global security challenges, helping students develop critical thinking skills and a nuanced understanding of contemporary security issues, including conflict, terrorism, and climate change. Optional modules allow further exploration of East Asian societies, culture, politics, and international relations, alongside opportunities for Discovery Modules to broaden academic interests. In the final year, students undertake a substantial Final Year Project, choosing between a dissertation in politics or a dissertation or public engagement project in East Asian Studies. Optional modules in the third year cover a wide range of topics, including regional political economy, Japanese cinema, Southeast Asian politics, global security, and foreign policy, while students can also explore interdisciplinary options in literature, culture, decolonial studies, and social movements. This combination equips graduates with analytical, research, and practical skills for careers in international organisations, diplomacy, policy, business, and academia, with a deep understanding of East Asia and global politics.