South Asia Studies
The South Asia Studies Bachelor of Arts program at Pennsylvania University is a four-year, full-time undergraduate program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the history, culture, politics, and societies of South Asia. The curriculum integrates history, political science, sociology, literature, and cultural studies, enabling students to explore the complex dynamics of South Asian countries and the region’s global impact. Students engage in research projects, field studies, and applied analysis, developing analytical, interpretive, and critical thinking skills necessary to understand regional developments and their global implications.
Throughout the program, students participate in seminars, collaborative research, and experiential learning guided by faculty experts in South Asian studies, political science, and cultural analysis. The program emphasizes critical thinking, interdisciplinary scholarship, and applied research, preparing graduates to assess social, political, and cultural phenomena, and contribute to education, policy, and international engagement. Students leave the program with research competence, analytical skills, cultural literacy, and critical reasoning, fully prepared for careers or advanced study in South Asian studies, international relations, social sciences, or cultural institutions.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: South Asia Studies
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: Asian studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in South Asia Studies
- Introduction to South Asia Studies
- History and Cultures of South Asia
- Social Structures and Political Systems
- Research Methods and Critical Analysis
Year 2 – Intermediate Study and Regional Perspectives
- Politics and Governance in South Asia
- Literature and Arts of the Region
- Economic and Social Development
- Electives: Religion, Migration, or Gender Studies
Year 3 – Advanced Analysis and Research
- Contemporary South Asian Societies
- Applied Research Projects
- Comparative Studies of South Asia in Global Context
- Electives: International Policy, Human Rights, or Cultural Representation
Year 4 – Capstone and Professional Integration
- Senior Thesis or Independent Research Project
- Seminar in Contemporary South Asian Issues
- Professional Portfolio Development
- Internship or Experiential Project in Academic, Cultural, or Policy Settings
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the South Asia Studies program are prepared for careers in education, research, international relations, public policy, nonprofit organizations, and cultural institutions. Alumni may work as policy analysts, cultural program coordinators, researchers, educators, or pursue graduate studies in South Asian studies, international relations, political science, or related disciplines. The program equips graduates to analyze social, cultural, and political dynamics, design evidence-based interventions, and contribute to global engagement and understanding. With strong research, analytical, and communication skills, graduates are highly competitive in professional and academic environments focused on South Asia and global affairs.
Why Choose This Program
This program is distinguished by its integration of regional history, cultural analysis, political study, and applied research within a four-year curriculum. Students benefit from mentorship, fieldwork opportunities, and experiential projects that connect theoretical knowledge with practical applications in education, research, and international engagement. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, interdisciplinary inquiry, and applied problem-solving, preparing graduates to understand South Asian societies, influence policy, and engage meaningfully with global and cultural issues. For students passionate about exploring South Asia, analyzing regional and global dynamics, and applying scholarly insight to professional contexts, this program offers a rigorous, immersive, and career-focused pathway to professional and academic success.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
