The Master’s in Asian Studies at Leiden University is your opportunity to earn a specialised qualification from one of the leading centres for Asian studies in Europe.
The Asian Studies master's programme provides you with the opportunity to deepen your understanding of the region through the lens of specific disciplines, strengthen your language proficiency, and develop a critical perspective on Asia. The programme consists of one-year regional specialisations in East Asia, South Asia, Southeast Asia as well as the Global Asia specialisation (previously History, Arts and Culture of Asia, and the Politics, Society and Economy of Asia specialisation) with a focus on themes and issues as well as connections within the region.
The two-year specialisations in China, Japan, Korea are part of a selective program which includes a year abroad with intensive language study and field research. Expertise in Asia at Leiden University is internationally renowned and spans the whole of Asia. Small classes give you direct and regular contact with your lecturers, many of whom are at the leading edge of Asia-related research worldwide. Students can also make use of our extensive collection in the Asian Library, which includes academic publications from the region, as well as special collections of historical texts and manuscripts.
Our language course offerings include Hindi, Indonesian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Sanskrit en Tibetan.
As a graduate of the MA in Asian Studies, you are qualified to work within a variety of fields where there is a demand for expertise in Asia, including journalism and publishing, international trade and marketing, business, public relations, education and development aid, and in government, international organisations and NGOs.
Do you feel invested in Asian history, arts or culture, or economics, politics and society? Do you wish to understand and examine Asia from the perspective of Asia itself? Expand your knowledge by deepening your understanding with one of our regional specialisations in Asian Studies. Will it be Chinese Studies? Or Indonesia? Do you wish to combine regional knowledge with a specific disciplinary approach such as politics, sociology, or art history? Find the programme which suits your interests best within the eight different programmes Leiden University has to offer!
Do you want to find out if you are eligible for this Master's Programme?
A centre of expertise on languages and cultures of the world
If you’re interested in languages and cultures, Leiden University is the best place to study. The university’s global expertise places our programmes at the top. In Leiden and The Hague, we study languages and cultures from all regions of the world and from prehistory to the present day. In this way, we create a broad view of the world; the key to mutual understanding.
Video: Our experts on Languages and Cultures explain
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Leiden University offers ambitious students a world-class environment in which to reach their full potential.
Top-ranked university
Leiden University's Faculty of Humanities consistently ranks among the top 30 humanities faculties worldwide by the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings. Here, you can access resources found nowhere else in the world, such as Leiden University's famous collections of Asian artefacts; learn from researchers whose expertise spans all corners of Asia; and choose from an expansive curriculum that includes specialised subjects not available elsewhere.
Close, individual tuition
At Leiden, we take a student-centred approach to learning. Teaching takes the form of small-scale lectures, seminars and tutorials, where every student has the opportunity to participate in debates and share their ideas. A high level of focused attention from lecturers also keeps you engaged and on track to meet your goals. A flexible programme format means that whatever your interests or career goals, our faculty members can help you customise the programme to meet these requirements.
Access to the Humanities Hub labs
As a Humanities master’s student you will have access to the Humanities Hub which comprises labs with digital facilities for both students and researchers. The labs include an AI Lab, Media lab, film studio and podcast studio and give you the opportunity to develop your digital and media skills within the field of the humanities. Check the Humanities Hub page for a full list of all the labs and facilities.
Humanities Hub Leiden
An excellent start to your career
Our reputation as a centre of excellence means that your qualification is respected by organisations worldwide. Our graduates enjoy successful careers thanks to their broad and global mind-sets, specialised and in-depth knowledge, and strong critical-thinking skills.The success of our alumni speaks for itself: our graduates are equipped to solve the challenges facing society now and in the future.
Diversity and inclusion
We are convinced that our education can only flourish if everyone within the programme feels supported, respected and empowered to do their best work. We find it important to offer a learning environment that allows for different perspectives and points of view that students bring with them, depending on their ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, health, religion, age or socio-economic background. Every new generation sees the world from a new perspective – and our students are the newest generation. We look forward to hearing more about your perspective. Leiden University has been pursuing diversity policy since 2014, with the aim of creating a diverse and inclusive learning and working environment for all staff and students.
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Asian Studies at Leiden University is unparalleled in the Netherlands and combines the very best of Asia-related research in North-West Europe.
Asian Studies programmes
Two-year specialisations on China, Japan, and Korea
The specialisations Chinese Studies, Japanese Studies, and Korean Studies are two years in duration and include a year abroad, where you will intensify your language proficiency, and deepen your knowledge and experience the country of your choosing. Advanced proficiency in the relevant language is a prerequisite.
All three programmes require the completion of a bachelor’s degree in Chinese studies, Japanese studies or Korean studies, depending on the programme. Disciplinary specialisation is at the core of each, and involves the development of fluent modern language skills. Classical language training is also an option, which is unique to Leiden. You will spend a year at a university in the relevant country, and write an MA thesis. Places in these specialisations are limited.
One-year specialisation East Asian Studies
The specialisation East Asian Studies is a one-year programme that offers the possibility of in-depth analysis of one country in East Asia, either China, Japan, or Korea, in fields such as history, sociology, philosophy, economics, linguistics, politics and international relations.
Advanced knowledge of an East Asian language is required. The programme is similar to that of the related two-year specialisations, but with the advantage of allowing you to choose from a broader range of elective courses, including those on other Asian regions or countries outside the area of your specialisation, and develop advanced language proficiency.
One-year specialisations on South Asia and Southeast Asia
The specialisations South Asia and Southeast Asia are one year in duration and focus on deepening your knowledge of countries in the region. Knowledge of a relevant language is not required, although some individual courses require knowledge of a classical or modern South or Southeast Asian language. Students have the option of learning one of the many Asian languages taught at Leiden University.
South Asian Studies focuses on pre-modern, modern or contemporary South Asia, in fields such as social history, politics, Buddhism, Sanskrit and Tibetan studies. The focus of the programme is on India and Sri Lanka. Southeast Asian Studies focuses on one or more aspects of countries in Southeast Asia, such as history, anthropology, politics, economics, Islam and ecology.
One-year specialisation Global Asian Studies
With an expansive curriculum, the one-year master's in Global Asian Studies gives students the opportunity to delve deep into their specific disciplinary area of interest within the field of Asian Studies. Explore the countries of your choice from a wide range of disciplinary perspectives, including history, literature, art history, critical heritage, philosophy, religion, political economy, International Relations, sociology or anthropology. Knowledge of an Asian language is not required for this specialisation.
For a detailed programme, check the Prospectus where you can find more information on the courses offered in the various Asian Studies programmes.
Please note that the guide applies to the current academic year, which means that the curriculum for next year may slightly differ.
'Immerse yourself in everything you can'
After completing my Bachelor’s degree in International Relations, I wanted to continue my studies with a stronger regional focus on Asia. The Politics, Society, and Economy track [from 2026, this specialization can be pursued as part of the new Global Asia track - red.] of the MA Asian Studies programme was a good choice as it allowed me to build on the themes I had explored during my Bachelor’s while specialising in Asia. The wide range of electives made the programme especially appealing, as it gave me the chance to study several sub-regions and how they interact with each other.
One of the highlights of my studies was the traineeship I completed at the Embassy of Sweden in Singapore within the Department for Trade and Promotion. Working in a small team, I was involved in the Embassy’s promotional activities, events, and projects that supported Swedish interests in the region and strengthened Singapore–Sweden cooperation. My responsibilities ranged from planning and attending in-house and outreach events to engaging with Singaporean partners and the Swedish business community, supporting EU-delegation initiatives and reporting on political developments in Singapore.
Throughout my time in Singapore, I built on the knowledge which I had acquired during my courses at Leiden University. I further learnt how to apply and adapt my academic skills from university to a professional setting. On the side of my internship, I conducted field research for my thesis where I applied and developed my personal skills by arranging and holding interviews. That in itself was an invaluable experience.
For anyone that wishes to do something similar, I would strongly recommend immersing yourself in everything you can – especially when it might feel a bit daunting. The majority of my most interesting experiences outside of work came from putting myself in situations where I initially felt a bit hesitant.
Ethan Mark
Senior University Lecturer
“I try to encourage my students to think critically by pushing them to interrogate the categories through which we think and by which we describe the world: where they came from, what forces constructed them, and for what purposes.”
“In a world in which we are so often confronted with the appearance of essential differences, I seek to stimulate an awareness of the interconnectedness of our identities and our histories, informed by an awareness of history itself not as a single narrative of objective facts, but as a field of ongoing contestation between competing narratives and competing political agendas.”
Rianne Schleiffert
Government Trainee at the Ministry of Defense
I apply the skills I developed during my master's degree every day, including critical thinking, writing, and presenting. Spending a year working on a comprehensive thesis also taught me a great deal about perseverance and work ethic. Furthermore, during my placement in Taiwan and now at the Ministry, I find my knowledge of East Asia to be incredibly valuable.
"During my undergraduate studies, I discovered two passions: a deep enjoyment for researching and writing, and an unending curiosity about the East Asia region. I became particularly interested in how China remembers and presents its modern history through various so-called “memory carriers,” including museums, films, (school) books and monuments. Additionally, I was intrigued by how the Communist Party uses history to build legitimacy. This Research Master's program allowed me to delve deeper into my area of interest as I could build my own curriculum, while also continuing to develop my skills as a researcher."
"I am currently a Government Trainee at the Ministry of Defense. This is a 2-year program designed to provide recent graduates with diverse experiences as civil servants. It allows for rotations across various positions within and outside the ministry. Consequently, I have gained valuable and fun experiences in multiple locations, both in the Netherlands and abroad: from Lessons Learned Advisor at the Dutch Helicopter Command, to Innovation and Economic Security Officer at the Netherlands Office Taipei. Currently, I am working as a Policy Officer within the Directorate for International Affairs at the ministry."
Admission and application
Do you want to find out if you are eligible for this Master's Programme?
Get the most out of your studies at Leiden University by taking part in our extracurricular activities.
Asian Studies study associations
The MA Asian Studies’s study association: A.S.I.A (Asian Studies International Association) organizes a range of activities and provides a community for our students. You can find their Instagram page here. The program also collaborates with the study associations of the BA programs in Asian Studies: Siitaa (South and Southeast Asian Studies), SVS (Chinese Studies), LVSJK Tanuki (Japanese Studies), and S.V.K. Dokkaebi (Korean Studies) and the BASIS East Asia Committee (International Studies). These associations organise educational and social activities such as parties and film nights, lectures, company and career days, workshops and much more. Joining a study association is a great way to get to know fellow students and teachers outside of the academic setting.
Leiden Leadership Programme
If you’re interested in developing your leadership potential, the Leiden Leadership Programme offers training sessions, seminars, and a Personal Leadership Roadmap to help you grow.
Study at the Academy of Creative and Performing Arts
The Academy of the Creative and Performing Arts (ACPA) is a research institute and part of the Faculty of Humanities. The ACPA offers education such as electives, and talent programmes such as the Practicum Artium (PA), which gives you the opportunity to study photography, graphic design or drawing, and the Practicum Musicae at the Royal Conservatoire The Hague, where you can study classical music, singing, early music or jazz. Find out more about ACPA.
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As a graduate of the MA in Asian Studies, you are qualified to work within a variety of fields where there is a demand for expertise in Asia, including journalism and publishing, international trade and marketing, business, public relations, education and development aid, and in government, international organisations and NGOs.
Examples of the diverse roles of our graduates include:
Lecturer at a Dutch University
School teacher at a school in China
Editor at an academic publishing house
Museum curator
Freelance festival producer
Foreign correspondent of national broadcasting service
Spokesperson at a Dutch Ministry
Social media marketer
Communication adviser at a University
International business advisor
Consultant at a defence and security company
Sustainable data analyst and consultant
Policy officer at a Ministry
International relations officer at a university
Executive Assistant at an Embassy
Account manager at a translation agency
Project manager at a trading and consultancy company in India
Relations management officer at an organisation promoting internationalisation in education
D&I recruiter
Yu Kai Tan
Analyst Sanctions at Rabobank
"After my BA I leaped back into my studies with Asian Studies, I just wanted to learn more about Asia. The program didn’t disappoint, far from it, Asian Studies turned out to be the natural next step for my academic interests and personal growth. During the program I not only learned about the ever-changing politics, societies and economics of Asia, I also learned more about their international relations, developed my own critical view and met many interesting people with backgrounds in various different disciplines. All that while living in one of the most beautiful and historic cities in the Netherlands, what more can you want? In my current job I am both a researcher and an analyst, and Asian Studies has given me the tools to not only succeed but thrive. The skills and lessons I learned during the study program continue to be of great value in both my personal life and my career."
In which sector do students find jobs?
16 %Education
13 %Government and semi-government
9 %Communication and marketing
6 %Consultancy
6 %Arts and culture
6 %IT
5 %Financial institutions
4 %Wholesale and retail
4 %Business services
4 %Research
28 %Other
This graph is based on alumni data from the MA Asian Studies cluster 2020 through 2024.
Career preparation
Find out how this programme prepares you for your future career and check our career preparation activities.
Knowledge and skills
Launch your career with a master’s degree
Continuing your studies after your bachelor's degree pays off. Graduates with a master's degree are more likely to find higher-level positions: 77% start at a university of applied sciences (hbo) or university level, compared to 63% of graduates who only hold a bachelor's degree. This difference remains visible in the long term. After more than two years of work experience, 87% of master's alumni work at a university of applied sciences or university level, compared to 76% of bachelor's alumni.
A unique strength on the job market
As a Humanities graduate, you have developed talents that are in high demand on the job market. Intercultural skills, written communication, and social awareness are qualities that clearly distinguish Humanities graduates on the job market. Your ability to think analytically and creatively also gives you an edge.
Internships
Do you consider to put your knowledge into practice during your studies? Determine whether an internship could be an option for you. Start orientating your possibilities by visiting an internship information session. This way you can receive information about the internship procedure and listen to tips of former interns.
Notice that you will search for an internship yourself to find a place of your interest. Do you need some help with this or the application process? Do not hesitate to contact the Career Service. When you have found an internship, inform us. Then, the internship coordinator advises you how to proceed and provides your internship plan with feedback so it can be submitted for approval to the board of examiners.
Humanities Career Service
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Our staff can help you identify both the career that is right for you, and the necessary steps to get you there. Our team at the Humanities Career Service provides all Leiden University Humanities students with professional advice and guidance on everything from internships and career planning to job applications. The Humanities Career Service also organises regular workshops on topics such as effective interview skills and creating a successful CV. Check our video and hear from our alumni how they have benefited from our services!
The Leiden University Career Zone is an online career portal that helps you to prepare for the job market. Here you can find information, tools and tips to help you gain more personal insight, learn about the job market, develop your application skills, plan your academic and professional career, find job vacancies and discover what the Career Service can do for you.
Ask Alumni: Leiden University Mentor Network
Join the Mentor Network to contact alumni with experience on the labour market and ask them for advice. More than 1200 alumni are happy to help you!
Jelle on finding an internship via Leiden University's Mentor Network
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We invite motivated students from around the world to apply for the Master of Arts in Asian Studies. Admission requirements may vary per specialisation, please visit the specialisation of your interest to find out more about the entry requirements.
Chinese Studies
Application deadlines: starting in September
All applicants must apply before 1 April
Your time at Leiden is about more than just studying. Some of your best experiences will stem from being a part of our lively and diverse student community, as well as from life in the beautiful city of Leiden.
The Humanities Master’s Buddy Programme has been set up by the Faculty of Humanities to help all students who are new to the university to integrate quickly and easily into university life. You will be matched to a buddy who can help you out with your academic and practical questions. Additionally you will be able to attend fun monthly activities and make friends from all over the world.
Leiden has several student organisations that specifically cater for international students. These associations organise regular social events and activities that help create the strong sense of community that exists within our international student body. The main two organisations are:
Erasmus Student Network Leiden (ESN) ESN Leiden is an international student organisation which hosts a range of activities and programmes. They also have a buddy programme which provides new students with the right support to assimilate into Leiden and the university.
AEGEE Leiden AEGEE is a leading European student association with sister organisations in over 40 countries across Europe. AEGEE organises many activities in Leiden, from dinners and pool nights to boat trips and guest lectures.
In August and February each year, Leiden University hosts the English-language Orientation Week Leiden (OWL), which welcomes both international and Dutch students. The OWL is an excellent way to get to know Leiden University, the city, and other students.
Life in Leiden
Picturesque and the perfect size, Leiden is the ideal place to spend your university days. The Faculty of Humanities is located within the heart of the city, where dozens of cafes, shops and bars line its historic laneways and leafy canals. Small enough to run into familiar faces, but big enough to keep offering surprises – you will treasure your time at Leiden. And for adventures further afield, the major cities of The Hague and Amsterdam are a short train ride away, along with Schiphol Airport, which is just half an hour away by train.
Our study and student associations organise a huge variety of social, cultural, and study events to keep you busy all year round. You can also join the University Sports Centre, which offers scheduled group sports and fitness classes, amongst other activities.
Information activities
Get to know us through our online and in-person events for prospective students!
Two speakers at the open day
Are you thinking about joining this Master's programme, and want to determine if it will be the right fit for you? Below, you can browse the events that we have coming up, and sign up to experience Leiden University and the programme for yourself. Alternatively, take a look at the Master Talks videos to find out more about the programme or check out our virtual campus tours!
Upcoming events
Master's Open Days
Master's Open Days
During the Master's Open Days you’ll have the opportunity to learn all about Leiden University’s master's programmes. Attend presentations about your chosen programme(s) or practical matters such as admissions and housing. Get real insight into the content of your preferred master's, along with the career opportunities it will bring.
On the Master Talks: programme videos platform you can find videos for each master’s programme. This includes a video which gives a short introduction to the programme. You can also find the recording of the previous Master's Online Open Days and watch the programme presentation on the platform.
Get to know the campus
Check out our virtual campus tours, filmed in 360 degrees – by dragging the video, you can look around at the surroundings yourself. Below is the video recorded at the Humanities faculty, where most of your lectures will take place; you can also view other 360 campus tours of the various university faculties here.
360 Campus tour: the Humanities faculty
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Questions about the application procedure, tuition fees and scholarships
Student Affairs Front Office
Phone: +31 (0)71 527 80 11
Email: Contact form
Or visit their website
Visiting address
Leiden: Plexus Student Centre
Kaiserstraat 25, ground floor
2311 GN Leiden
Monday to Thursday, between 13:00 and 16:00
Chat with a student
Do you have a question about student life in Leiden, studying at Leiden University, or do you want more information about the Asian Studies master's programme? Chat with a current student for answers to your questions!
