Asian Studies

Knowledge about Asia is a crucial national asset at a time of rapid globalisation and social change. The Asian Studies program at the University of Melbourne is one of the largest in Australia and comprises a comprehensive range of subjects in the intellectual, cultural, political and religious traditions of Asia, with a focus on China, Indonesia, Japan and South-east Asia. Asian Studies subjects are taught in English and do not require language prerequisites. Study abroad programs are available and Asialink offers a stimulating program of events and activities with an Asian focus.

Students who complete this major will:

• Demonstrate a broad knowledge of traditions, ideologies and contemporary developments in the Asian region.

• Acquire the ability to use interdisciplinary frameworks to engage critically with key issues in contemporary Asia.

• Develop foundational research skills in the analysis of critical issues in the Asian region.

• Develop cross-cultural skills to work effectively with people from different cultures.

• Gain the ability to set goals and manage time and priorities and work effectively both independently and in groups

Asian Studies can be undertaken as either a major or minor sequence in the BA.

A major in Asian Studies comprises:

Level 1

• Language & Power in Asian Societies; and
• One Arts Foundation Subject;

Level 2

• 37.50 points of Asian Studies subjects with a minimum of 25 points from the core list

Level 3

• 25 points of Asian Studies subjects (with a minimum of 1 from the core list); and
• The compulsory capstone subject Identity, Ideology and Nationalism in Asia

Total 100 points

A minor in Asian Studies comprises:

Level 1

• Language & Power in Asian Societies
• One Arts Foundation Subject

Level 2

• Two level 2 subjects from the core subjects listed in the Asian Studies major.

Level 3

• Any two subjects from the core subjects listed in the Asian Studies.

Total 75 points

The capstone subject is not available in the minor or as breadth studies outside the BA.

Overseas study

Students on overseas exchange can select up to four Asia-focus subjects from those offered by overseas institutions for inclusion in their Asian Studies major.

Level 1:

Level 2 Core:

Level 2 Electives:

Level 3 Capstone:

The capstone is compulsory for students completing a major in Asian Studies.

Level 3 Core:

Level 3 Electives: