Asian Studies University of British Columbia

Overview

The Asian Studies M.A. at the University of British Columbia is a thesis-based programme widely recognised as a leading centre for scholarship in North America. Students engage in rigorous academic training across various regions and disciplines, supported by a flagship department within the Faculty of Arts. This course provides a robust foundation for those seeking to specialise in the languages, histories, and cultures of Asia.

Why Asian Studies at University of British Columbia?

The department is distinguished by its remarkable geographic and disciplinary breadth, featuring over 20 graduate faculty members with expertise ranging from classical literature to modern visual culture. Students have access to the Asian Library, which houses one of the most significant collections of East Asian materials in North America. As a research hub, the university hosts numerous lecture series, collaborative projects, and workshops that facilitate professional connections with global scholars.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: CAD 9884 per year
• National fee: CAD 5626 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum requires a minimum of 30 credits, including a substantial 12-credit original research thesis. Students can tailor their studies across various humanities disciplines and language streams. Modules may include:

• Linguistics
• Literary Study
• History
• Philosophy
• Religious Studies
• Popular and Visual Culture
• Modern and Classical Chinese
• Modern and Classical Japanese
• Sanskrit

Careers with Asian Studies

Graduates of this programme are well-prepared for diverse professional paths or further academic pursuits. Many alumni successfully transition into top-ranked doctoral programmes worldwide to continue their research. Others apply their specialised knowledge and analytical skills in sectors such as public service, education, journalism, and translation. The programme also supports careers in publishing, museum curation, cultural education, international business, and consultancy.