East Asian Studies (Hons)
The Bachelor of Arts in East Asian Studies (Hons) is a three-year full-time program that offers students a deep dive into the cultures, languages, and societies of East Asia, with a focus on China, Japan, and Korea. This interdisciplinary course combines language study with cultural, historical, and political analysis, providing students with the tools to understand the complexities of East Asian societies. Students will study a range of topics, from the region’s ancient civilizations to contemporary political and economic issues, while also developing proficiency in one or more East Asian languages.
The program includes opportunities for immersive learning, such as study abroad experiences and internships in East Asia, which allow students to enhance their language skills and cultural understanding. Graduates will be well-prepared for careers in international business, diplomacy, translation, academia, or any field that requires expertise in East Asian cultures and languages. The combination of language proficiency and regional knowledge makes this program ideal for those seeking to engage with one of the world’s most dynamic and influential regions.
Key information
Key Facts
Program Title: Bachelor of Arts (BA) in East Asian Studies (Hons)
Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts (Hons)
Duration: 3 Years
Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
Application Deadline: 30th June 2026
Location: University of Manchester, United Kingdom
Field of Study: Asian Studies
Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Introduction to East Asian Studies
- Introduction to East Asian History
- Foundations of East Asian Politics and Economy
- East Asian Languages (Chinese, Japanese, or Korean)
- Cultural Studies of East Asia
- Academic Skills for East Asian Studies
Year 2 – Intermediate East Asian Politics and Culture
- Political Systems and Governance in East Asia
- East Asian Literature and Philosophy
- Modern East Asian History
- Advanced Language Skills (Chinese, Japanese, or Korean)
- Research Methods in East Asian Studies
Year 3 – Advanced East Asian Studies and Specialization
- Comparative Politics in East Asia
- Contemporary Issues in East Asia (e.g., Economic Development, Environmental Issues)
- Specialized Topics in East Asian Culture and Society
- Independent Research Project in East Asian Studies
- Elective Modules in History, Politics, or Language
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the East Asian Studies (Hons) program can pursue careers in a variety of fields related to East Asia, including roles in international relations, diplomacy, translation and interpretation, and cross-cultural communication. The program's strong foundation in East Asian history, politics, and language also prepares graduates for roles in business, tourism, government agencies, and media focused on East Asian markets. Graduates can also work in international organizations, NGOs, and think tanks focused on East Asian affairs. Further study options, including master's and PhD programs, are also available for those wishing to specialize further in East Asian studies.
Why Choose This Program
The East Asian Studies (Hons) program offers an in-depth exploration of the rich and diverse cultures, histories, and political systems of East Asia. Students gain fluency in an East Asian language and develop a deep understanding of East Asian societies through both theoretical learning and practical experiences. The program’s interdisciplinary approach integrates history, politics, economics, and culture, preparing students to work in global contexts with a specialized knowledge of one of the world’s most dynamic regions. The opportunity to engage with international study and research projects enhances the program, making it ideal for those interested in East Asian business, policy analysis, or cross-cultural communication.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +44 (0)161 275 5252
Email: admissions@manchester.ac.uk
Address: University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, United Kingdom
