Master of Arts in East Asian Studies
Explore China, Japan, and Korea through interdisciplinary courses in history, culture, politics, and language.
Best for:Best for students with advanced language skills in Mandarin, Japanese, or Korean and a passion for interdisciplinary research on East Asia’s history, culture, and politics.
Overview
This one-year Master’s programme in East Asian Studies at Leiden University offers a multidisciplinary approach to understanding East Asia, including China, Japan, and the Koreas. Students engage with thematic and disciplinary courses, as well as country-specific studies in history, arts, philosophy, language, culture, politics, and international relations. Advanced proficiency in Mandarin, Japanese, or Korean is required, and students will conduct research using primary and secondary sources in these languages. The programme leverages Leiden’s renowned expertise in Asia, providing close interaction with leading European scholars in the field through small, interactive classes.
What you'll do
- Engage in interdisciplinary coursework covering history, arts, philosophy, language, culture, politics, and international relations of East Asia.
- Conduct research using primary and secondary sources in Mandarin, Japanese, or Korean.
- Participate in small, interactive classes with leading scholars in East Asian studies.
- Develop advanced language proficiency and analytical skills in the chosen East Asian language.
- Complete a research project or thesis under faculty supervision.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Humanities, Social Sciences, or related disciplines)
Degree offered: Master of Arts (MA)
Language: English proficiency; Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (180), Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (180), IELTS overall band (6.5), or TOEFL internet-based (90)
Instruction: English
- Advanced proficiency in Mandarin, Japanese, or Korean (equivalent to C1 level or higher)
- Strong analytical and research skills
- Ability to work with primary and secondary sources in East Asian languages
- No specific nationality restrictions
- No age restrictions
- No prior experience caps
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
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- Intake
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How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-15
Applicants must submit their application through Leiden University’s official online portal. Required documents include a CV, a letter of motivation, academic transcripts, proof of language proficiency, and a research proposal. Additional documents may be requested depending on the application.
- CV
- Letter of motivation
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of language proficiency (Cambridge Certificate, IELTS, or TOEFL)
- Research proposal
Contact
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