Asian Studies
UNDERGRADUATE MAJOR
A major in Asian Studies will offer students an interdisciplinary approach in understanding Asia; a comparative perspective in the study of different Asian societies and histories; and an introduction to cultural and social theories as tools to approach Asia.
You will study ancient histories of Asian societies, the diversity of Asian languages and cultures, the importance of their colonial and postcolonial histories, and the complexities of their modern rural and urban societies. Australia today is tied into Asia more than ever before, through intensifying cultural contacts, immigration, tourism, commerce and trade, and strategic alliances. Thus, the study of Asia has become vital to Australia's future, and all educated Australians need to learn more about their neighbours in the region.
Study plan
There are two compulsory first year junior units of study which are prerequisites for the Asian Studies senior level units (these junior level units may be waived by the department if students have taken other Faculty of Arts Table A junior units):
ASNS1601 Introduction to Asian Cultures
ASNS1602 Modernity in Asia
To obtain a major in Asian Studies, students must successfully complete 36 senior credit points. A minimum of 18 senior credit points must be made up of ASNS units; the other 18 senior credit points may be taken from approved cross-listed units of study offered by other Faculty of Arts departments.
Graduate opportunities
Sydney Arts and Social Sciences graduates work in government departments at all levels, and major private sector consultancies and corporations, locally and overseas. The Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences offers a range of subject areas that prepare graduates for careers in administration, education, business research, marketing, media, management consultancy, public relations, gallery and museum curatorship, hospitality and tourism, community and welfare. Our graduates are proficient in research and inquiry, and demonstrate personal and intellectual autonomy, and ethical, social and professional understanding, qualities sought after by leading employers all over the world.
Further study for major
Eligible candidates may proceed to an Honours year in the Bachelor of Arts, or apply for admission to a rich postgraduate program in the humanities and social sciences, comprising advanced learning and professional courses. Master degrees include capstone projects ranging from internships with government and non-government organisations in Australia and overseas, the gallery and museum sector, and leading media organisations, to opportunities for independent research projects which prepare students for higher degrees by research.
Related subject areas
Chinese Studies, Indonesian Studies, Japanese Studies, Korean Studies, Political Economy