Middle Eastern, South Asian and African Studies
The Middle Eastern, South Asian and African Studies program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the histories, cultures, and societies of these regions, emphasizing critical analysis, interdisciplinary research, and cultural awareness. Students explore political, economic, and social developments while examining literature, language, religion, and artistic traditions across multiple contexts. Courses combine area studies, social sciences, and humanities with applied research projects and language training. Students develop skills in cross-cultural analysis, research methodology, and effective communication, preparing them to engage deeply with regional studies and contribute to global understanding and scholarship.
Throughout the program, students cultivate expertise in research, cultural analysis, and communication essential for careers in international relations, academia, policy-making, and cultural institutions. Exposure to interdisciplinary approaches, including political science, sociology, economics, and history, ensures graduates can approach complex regional challenges with nuance and insight. By fostering independent inquiry, applied research, and critical reflection, the program prepares students to make meaningful contributions to scholarship, policy analysis, and professional initiatives focused on Middle Eastern, South Asian, and African regions.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Middle Eastern, South Asian and African Studies
- Degree Type: S. Bachelor
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 January 2026
- Location: Columbia University, United States
- Field of Study: Asian studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Regional Studies
• Introduction to Middle Eastern, South Asian and African Studies
• Regional History and Societies
• Academic Writing and Research Skills
• Language Studies (Arabic, Hindi, Swahili, or other regional language)
Year 2 – Core Regional Analysis
• Politics and Economics of the Regions
• Literature and Cultural Studies
• Research Methods in Social Sciences
• Elective Modules in History, Sociology, or International Relations
Year 3 – Advanced Regional Studies and Applied Research
• Seminar in Regional Politics and Culture
• Fieldwork or Research Project
• Comparative Studies across the Regions
• Elective Modules in Area Studies, Religion, or Development
Year 4 – Independent Research and Capstone Project
• Independent Research Project or Thesis
• Advanced Topics in Middle Eastern, South Asian and African Studies
• Data Analysis and Policy Evaluation
• Capstone Project Presentation
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in international organizations, government agencies, policy research, cultural institutions, education, and global development initiatives. They can work in diplomacy, international NGOs, research institutions, media, and advocacy organizations. The program equips students with expertise in research, cross-cultural analysis, communication, policy evaluation, and project management, enabling them to pursue versatile roles in international relations, area-specific research, program coordination, and education. Alumni may also continue their education in graduate programs in international studies, political science, regional studies, or related fields, providing highly competitive and adaptable career pathways.
Why Choose This Program
This program combines area studies, interdisciplinary research, and applied analysis, giving students a thorough understanding of the Middle Eastern, South Asian, and African regions. Small classes and faculty mentorship provide personalized guidance, fostering independent research, analytical skills, and critical thinking. The curriculum emphasizes language proficiency, fieldwork, applied research, and cultural analysis, preparing graduates to address complex challenges in diplomacy, policy, education, and global development. By engaging with research projects, regional studies, and interdisciplinary coursework, students gain the knowledge, analytical expertise, and experience necessary for impactful careers in international relations, policy, cultural institutions, education, and further graduate study.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 212 854 1754
Email: admissions@columbia.edu
Address: University of Columbia, Admissions Office, New York, NY, United States
