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South Asian Studies
The Bachelor of Arts in South Asian Studies at Brown University is a four-year, full-time, on-campus program that offers an in-depth, interdisciplinary exploration of the cultures, histories, and languages of South Asia. Covering countries such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, the program examines the region’s rich diversity through literature, religion, art, politics, and diaspora studies. Students engage with a wide range of topics—from ancient philosophies and classical texts to contemporary issues like urbanization, gender dynamics, and transnational migration—building a nuanced understanding of one of the world’s most populous and complex regions.
The program is designed to foster both cultural fluency and critical thinking. Students take courses across multiple departments, including history, religious studies, anthropology, and international relations, often incorporating language study in Hindi, Urdu, or Sanskrit. With access to specialized faculty and archival resources, students develop research skills and regional expertise. Fieldwork, study abroad options, and community engagement projects allow them to connect academic learning with lived experiences. The program encourages students to see South Asia not in isolation but as deeply connected to global flows of ideas, trade, and migration, preparing them to interpret global patterns through a regional lens.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: South Asian Studies
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: Brown University, United States
- Field of Study: Asian studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations and Regional Overview
- Introduction to South Asian Studies
- Global South: Historical Perspectives
- Beginning Hindi, Urdu, or Sanskrit
- Elective: South Asian Religions or Ancient Civilizations
Year 2 – Language and Thematic Exploration
- Intermediate South Asian Language
- Gender and Society in South Asia
- Literature, Film, and Identity in South Asia
- Research Skills in Area and Cultural Studies
Year 3 – Deepening Specialization and Experience
- Social Movements and Postcolonial Politics
- Study Abroad or Field Research in South Asia
- Elective: Caste, Labor, and Power
- Cultural Heritage and Preservation in South Asia
Year 4 – Synthesis and Independent Research
- Capstone Seminar in South Asian Studies
- Independent Research or Honors Thesis
- Advanced Language or Literature Course
- Public Presentation or Community-Engaged Project
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the South Asian Studies program pursue diverse careers that benefit from regional knowledge, cultural literacy, and research skills. Common career paths include international development, diplomacy, education, journalism, cultural programming, and nonprofit work, especially in organizations focused on South Asian affairs or immigrant communities. Many also work in policy analysis, global health, museum studies, or transnational business, where cross-cultural communication is essential. Graduates are well-prepared for advanced studies in fields such as anthropology, religious studies, global studies, or law. Their ability to engage critically with complex histories and cultural dynamics makes them valuable contributors to global dialogues in academic, professional, and civic settings. Whether working in advocacy, consulting, or education, alumni bring deep contextual understanding to their roles in a globalized world.
Why Choose This Program
This program offers an exceptional blend of interdisciplinary depth, linguistic immersion, and global relevance, ideal for students seeking to explore South Asia in all its complexity. Brown University’s open curriculum allows students to tailor their academic journey, drawing connections between South Asia and broader themes like colonialism, migration, and cultural expression. Faculty experts and small class sizes ensure close mentorship, while opportunities for international experience and original research foster intellectual and personal growth. The program cultivates both academic rigor and cultural empathy, preparing graduates to navigate a world where understanding regional context is more important than ever. For those passionate about the history, literature, and social dynamics of South Asia, this degree provides the foundation, flexibility, and inspiration to make a meaningful impact.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 401 863 1000
Email: admissions@brown.edu
Address: University of Brown, Providence, RI 02912, United States
