Overview

The East Asian Languages and Cultures programme at Columbia University provides an interdisciplinary framework for the advanced study of China, Japan, Korea, and Tibet. This curriculum is designed to integrate intensive linguistic training with a broad understanding of the historical and cultural contexts of the region.

Students benefit from a scholarly environment that encourages critical analysis of primary sources and contemporary issues. The academic structure supports those aiming for doctoral research or professional careers requiring high-level regional expertise and cultural fluency.

Why East Asian Languages and Cultures at Columbia University?

Columbia University is home to one of the oldest and most distinguished departments in this field, offering students access to world-renowned faculty and extensive archival resources. The institution maintains a global reputation for excellence in humanities and social sciences research.

The C.V. Starr East Asian Library provides an unparalleled collection of materials, supporting deep investigative work. Students are part of a vibrant intellectual community in New York City, a global hub that offers unique networking opportunities and cultural engagement with diverse international organisations.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 36728 per semester
National fee: USD 36728 per semester
Local fee: USD 36728 per semester

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

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on developing advanced proficiency in regional languages alongside thematic seminars. Modules may include:

History of East Asian Civilisation
Literary Traditions
Critical Approaches to East Asian Studies
Modern Chinese Literature
Japanese Cultural History
Korean Society and Politics
Tibetan Studies
Research Methodology
Classical Language Training

Careers with East Asian Languages and Cultures

Graduates from this programme are well-prepared for a variety of professional paths in both the public and private sectors. Many alumni continue their academic journeys by enrolling in prestigious doctoral programmes at leading international universities.

Beyond academia, individuals find success in international relations, diplomacy, and governmental agencies. The analytical skills and cultural expertise gained also lead to roles in global journalism, non-profit management, and international business consultancy focusing on Asian markets.

The ability to navigate complex linguistic and cultural landscapes makes graduates highly attractive to museums, libraries, and cultural heritage organisations. Many also pursue careers in education, translation, and policy analysis within global think tanks.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Political science
Sociology
Anthropology
Art
Law
History
Business
Critical methodology and comparative study

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-08 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-05-01 00:00:00

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

7.5

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Manhattan, United States

Disciplines

Asian studies View 94 other Masters in Asian studies in United States

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Academic requirements

GRE^®

Required

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

7.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Online Application
Three letters of recommendation are required for all degree program applicants
A personal statement is required for admission to each program (with the exception of Introduction to Architecture)
An academic transcript/record from each university attended and credit earned is required for all applicants. All transcripts must be received by the application deadline
Resumé/CV
English Proficiency

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

73456 USD / year

≈ 73456 USD / year
Out-of-State

73456 USD / year

≈ 73456 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

73456 USD / year

≈ 73456 USD / year

Living costs

Manhattan

United States

2638 - 5751 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for East Asian Languages and Cultures.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Manhattan

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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