East Asian Studies (MA) (60EC)
The master’s in East Asian Studies, a specialisation within the master's of Asian Studies, combines an exceptional range of courses with advanced language training and outstanding resources and expertise.
Part of
Start in February 2024
You can apply now to start the Cities, Migration and Global Interdependence general programme in February. The deadline is 15 October for students who need a visa or residence permit, and 15 November for students who do not. The interdisciplinary programme Governance of Migration and Diversity only starts in September.
Why study East Asian Studies at Leiden University?
The East Asian Studies master’s programme offers focused study of either China, Japan or Korea. Study the country of your choice from an expansive number of disciplinary perspectives including history, literature, art, art history, sociology, anthropology, media, cultural studies, religious studies, philosophy, economics, development studies, linguistics, or politics and international relations.
Learn more about the study programme
Develop your language skills
A key focus of this programme is on language training and developing your fluency in an East Asian language. We have experts in language training who are skilled in facilitating this learning process. You will be expected to apply your language skills when writing your MA thesis by using primary materials written in Chinese, Japanese or Korean.
Admission and Application
Do you want to find out if you are eligible for this Master's Programme?
Learn from acclaimed researchers
Expertise on Asia at Leiden University is internationally renowned. As a student of the MA in East Asian Studies, you will learn from some of Europe's best scholars in the field, many of whom are at the leading edge of Asia-related research in Europe. Small classes will ensure you have the opportunity to interact closely and regularly with your lecturers throughout your studies.
Find out more about the career prospects
It is also possible to focus on East Asia within the two-year research master’s programme Asian Studies and the two-year programmes Chinese Studies, Japanese Studies and Korean Studies.
In which sector do students find jobs?
- 30 Government and semi-government
- 20 Education
- 10 IT
- 10 Research
- 10 Financial institutions
- 10 Information management
- 10 Other
The graph above is based on alumni data from the MA East Asian Studies 2016-2020.
East Asian Studies Studies degree
East Asian Studies at Leiden University is an accredited degree programme. After successful completion of this programme, you will receive a master’s degree in Asian Studies and the title Master of Arts (MA).
Chat with a student
Do you have a question about studying at Leiden University or student life in Leiden? Do you want more information about the Asian Studies master's programme? Chat with a current student for answers to your questions!
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Take a break in the University's Asian Library -
Students studying in the University Library's Asian Library, which holds one of the largest collections on Indonesia worldwide and some of foremost collections on South and Southeast Asia, China, Japan and Korea -
The University Library's study spaces -
Group work in the University Library -
The University Library's central hall