Overview

The South Asian Studies programme at Columbia University provides an advanced interdisciplinary framework for understanding the historical, political, and cultural landscapes of the Indian subcontinent. Students engage with a curriculum designed to foster deep analytical expertise and linguistic proficiency relevant to the region. This academic pathway prepares scholars to navigate the complexities of South Asian societies through a variety of disciplinary lenses.

By integrating diverse methodological approaches, the curriculum ensures that participants gain a nuanced perspective on both contemporary issues and historical foundations. The academic environment encourages critical inquiry and independent research, allowing students to specialise in specific areas of interest within the broader field of Asian studies.

Why South Asian Studies at Columbia University?

Choosing this programme allows students to benefit from the extensive archival resources and specialised research centres dedicated to regional scholarship. The institution's long-standing reputation for excellence in humanities and social sciences provides a robust foundation for academic growth. Students are part of a vibrant intellectual community that prioritises global perspectives and cross-cultural understanding.

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 is structured to provide a balanced mix of core theoretical knowledge and elective specialisations. Modules may include:

History of South Asia
South Asian Literature
Political Economy of the Region
Cultural Anthropology
Regional Languages
Sociology of South Asia
Religious Traditions
Contemporary Politics

Careers with South Asian Studies

Graduates of this programme are well-equipped for diverse professional paths in international relations, non-governmental organisations, and academic research. The analytical and linguistic skills developed during the course are highly valued in sectors such as journalism, policy analysis, and cultural consultancy. Many alumni continue their studies at the doctoral level or pursue roles within global heritage and diplomatic institutions.

The programme's emphasis on critical thinking and regional expertise allows graduates to transition into careers that require a sophisticated understanding of global dynamics. Employment opportunities often arise in international development agencies, governmental bodies, and private sector firms with interests in the South Asian market. The broad skill set acquired ensures versatility in an increasingly interconnected global job market.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

To complement the core curriculum, students choose from a variety of courses offered regularly by South Asia Studies faculty in anthropology, art history, history, international affairs, literature, politics, and religion. Although there is no language requirement for the MA, Columbia offers elementary through advanced levels of training in Bengali, Hindi, Punjabi, Sanskrit, Tamil, Tibetan, and Urdu.

The institute provides resources and guidance for students to develop both a broad interdisciplinary expertise in South Asia studies and an area of specialization to be chosen by the student across a range of disciplines in the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. As a capstone project, the student completes a master's thesis in consultation with an advisor from the student's field of specialization.

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-08 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-04-23 00:00:00

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

Credits

30 alternative credits

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®

Other requirements

General requirements

transcripts of all previous post-secondary education

a statement of academic purpose

a curriculum vitae or résumé

three letters of recommendation from academic sources

GRE scores and, if applicable, results of the TOEFL or IELTS examination to fulfill the English Proficiency Requirement

a sample of scholarly writing, if required by the department or program

payment of the application fee

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 South Asian Studies.

Available Scholarships

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

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