Contemporary Asian Studies

Contemporary Asian Studies is an innovative programme with a broad, interdisciplinary character and a comparative approach to the study of Asia, as a powerhouse of local and global changes.

Contemporary Asian Studies focuses on all the main regions of Asia, stressing the importance of looking at interconnections both within the vast Asian region and between Asian societies and other parts of the world. Academic research on Asian societies is becoming increasingly important, in terms of both its theoretical and practical relevance. How can we approach, in a rigorous academic manner, the many important issues that dominate today's news, whether they be China's and India's economic transformation, high- and low-skilled migration flows, political and social movements, or the global reach of Asian companies and the spread of Asian popular culture? The crucial importance of Asia for advancing and enriching contemporary theories and debates on transnationalism, citizenship, development, economic restructuration, mobility and many other issues is engaged and demonstrated throughout the programme. This programme consists of courses that focus on contemporary themes as well as courses on specific regions of Asia. The programme also offers you the opportunity to design and conduct an independent field research in Asia, leading to the Master's thesis.

This one-year programme starts in September. It offers thematic courses that focus on contemporary developments as well as courses on specific regions of Asia. The courses provide training in new approaches to the social sciences and address issues related to identity, migration, development, power and culture in Asia today. The programme also offers a research period in Asia, leading to the thesis.

Research Project and Thesis

The research project consists of a 8-12 week period of research in Asia (15 ECTS credits) followed by the writing up of a Master's thesis (15 ECTS credits). Students wishing to do research on Asia from Amsterdam can also be accommodated. The Master's thesis must reflect a thorough understanding of the theories relevant to the thesis topic. It must also be based on original empirical research. The project is carried out by the student under the supervision of two faculty members, chosen in consultation with the student. The subject of the thesis is to be mutually agreed upon by the student and the fieldwork coordinator.

Degree requirements

The MSc in Contemporary Asian Studies is awarded upon completion of 60 ECTS credits, including all required courses in the curriculum and a written Master's thesis, which is based on an independent research project.

Grade average: Study results obtained in previous education should demonstrate that a student is able to attain and maintain a good to excellent level, especially in the field of Asian studies. Undergraduate studies should be completed with an overall grade average of at least a B/3.0 (American system), second class, lower division Honours degree (British system), C (ECTS system), 7.0 (Dutch system) or equivalent. Previous education: The Master's Programme in Contemporary Asian Studies seeks students with an academic Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in social sciences, humanities or economics. Knowledge minimum: Applicants are expected to have a solid basis in the field of Asian studies of at least (an equivalent of) 24 ECTS credits earned during previous study. Applicants are also expected to have sufficient knowledge of social sciences in general evidenced by the completion of at least (an equivalent of) 10 ECTS credits during previous study. For more up-to-date information on application and admission please visit out website. Language test: All non-native speakers of English (including Dutch students) applying to one of the English-taught programmes offered by the Graduate School of Social Sciences, are required to demonstrate proficiency in the English language. All students must be able to read textbooks, understand lectures, take part in classroom discussions and undertake written work in English. For more information, please visit our website. Additional subject: Applicants should have sufficient knowledge of social sciences research methodology reflected by the completion of at least (an equivalent of) 10 ECTS credits during previous study. Written request: All applicants are required to submit a statement of motivation. Grade list: All applicants are required to submit official transcripts of each higher education institute attended, listing all courses and examinations already completed and currently enrolled in, and grades and credits obtained. Additional language requirements:Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English: C1Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English: C1IELTS overall band: 6.5IELTS listening: 6IELTS reading: 6IELTS writing: 6IELTS speaking: 6TOEFL paper based: 575TOEFL computer based: 232TOEFL internet based: 90 English Language Requirements IELTS band: 6.5 CAE score: (read more) Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) is part of the Cambridge English suite and is targeted at a high level (IETLS 6.5-8.0). It is an international English language exam set at the right level for academic and professional success. Developed by Cambridge English Language Assessment - part of the University of Cambridge - it helps you stand out from the crowd as a high achiever. 60 (Grade C) TOEFL paper-based test score : 575 TOEFL iBT® test: 90

Scholarships / Grants:

Fulbright/ NAF:
The Fulbright Center is a bi-national, non-profit organization established by international agreement between the United States of America and the Kingdom of The Netherlands. It promotes educational co-operation and provides information on study, research and internships in the United States.
For additional information: Website

The University of Amsterdam:
The University of Amsterdam provides a limited number of full and partial scholarships for excellent students from outside the European Economic Area. The Amsterdam Merit Scholarships have specifically been designed to offer talented, ambitious and dedicated students the opportunity to pursue a Mast
For additional information: Website

U.S. Department of Education:
Loans are no longer being made under this program. All new loans will be made under the Direct Loan program.
For additional information: Website

:
Students from Columbia can apply for this scholarship through their website.
For additional information: Website

:
Jean Monnet Scholarship Programme, which has been implemented for 20 years and aims to support Turkey's administrative capacity building efforts for the effective implementation of the EU acquis, is the most prestigious scholarship programme in Turkey.
For additional information: Website

Accreditation

Accredited by: NVAO in: The Netherlands