Asian Studies and Hispanic Studies

Asian Studies and Hispanic Studies at the University of Kent offer a comprehensive interdisciplinary education that explores the rich cultural, historical, social, and political landscapes of Asia and Latin America. This joint programme is designed to give students a deep understanding of the diverse regions, their contemporary issues, and their historical developments. Students will engage with a wide range of topics including language, literature, philosophy, politics, economics, and cinema, among others, gaining a multidisciplinary perspective that enhances their global awareness and intercultural competence. The programme is suitable for students with an interest in Asian and Hispanic countries, their societies, and their contributions to world culture and history. Throughout their studies, students will have the opportunity to develop language skills in at least one Asian language (such as Chinese, Japanese, or Korean) and one Hispanic language (such as Spanish or Portuguese), allowing for a more immersive understanding of each region’s cultural context. The curriculum is designed to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, including critical analysis, research methodologies, and communication techniques. Students will also benefit from extensive opportunities for fieldwork, internships, and exchange programmes, which will further enhance their intercultural competence and employability. The programme prepares graduates for careers in international relations, diplomacy, journalism, education, translation, business, and cultural management, among others. Located in Canterbury, the University of Kent's vibrant and diverse academic community provides an ideal environment for studying Asian and Hispanic cultures. The teaching is delivered by experts with extensive research backgrounds, ensuring students receive up-to-date and relevant knowledge. Coursework combines lectures, seminars, film viewings, language classes, and research projects, facilitating a dynamic and engaging learning experience. Graduates of the programme will have developed a sophisticated understanding of two important regions of the world, equipped with language proficiency, cultural insights, and critical thinking skills that open doors to a range of international opportunities.

Detailed Course Facts

Application deadline January 15 Tuition fee

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 12450 Year (Non-EEA)

Start date September 2015 Credits (ECTS) 180 ECTS
Duration full-time 48 months Languages Take an IELTS test

• English

Delivery mode On Campus Educational variant Full-time More information Go To The Course Website

Course Content

Currently there is no course structure information available for this programme.

Year abroad

Stage 1

You take one compulsory module introducing you to Asian civilisations. You then choose optional modules covering politics and popular culture in Japan, and the rise of China; you also have the option of learning Japanese or Mandarin. In addition, you take the required modules for your joint honours subject.

Stage 2

You take one compulsory module on themes in the study of Asia. You then choose optional modules covering east Asian social and political systems, world literature, Buddhism and Hindu religious thought. It is possible to continue your Japanese and Mandarin language studies and begin learning Hindi. You also take the required modules for your joint honours subject.

Year abroad

Between Stages 2 and 3, you spend a year abroad in a Spanish-speaking country as part of your Hispanic Studies programme of study. Please see more information on your year abroad in the department of Hispanic Studies.

Stage 3

Asian Studies module options include postcolonial images of Africa and South Asia, Japan in the world, and modern Chinese Societies. You can opt to continue your language studies. You must also take the required modules for your joint honours subject.

Requirements

Home/EU students

The University will consider applications from students offering a wide range of qualifications, typical requirements are listed below, students offering alternative qualifications should contact the Admissions Office for further advice. It is not possible to offer places to all students who meet this typical offer/minimum requirement.

Qualification Typical offer/minimum requirement
A leve:

• GCSE

C in a modern European language other than English

• Access to HE Diploma

The University of Kent will not necessarily make conditional offers to all access candidates but will continue to assess them on an individual basis. If an offer is made candidates will be required to obtain/pass the overall Access to Higher Education Diploma and may also be required to obtain a proportion of the total level 3 credits and/or credits in particular subjects at merit grade or above.

• BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (formerly BTEC National Diploma)

The university will consider applicants holding BTEC National Diploma and Extended National Diploma Qualifications (QCF; NQF;OCR) on a case by case basis please contact us via the enquiries tab for further advice on your individual circumstances.

• International Baccalaureate

34 points overall or 15 at HL

International students

The University receives applications from over 140 different nationalities and consequently will consider applications from prospective students offering a wide range of international qualifications. Our International Development Office will be happy to advise prospective students on entry requirements.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Kent.

Funding

Kent offers generous financial support schemes to assist eligible undergraduate students during their studies. Our 2015 financial support package includes a £6,000 cash bursary spread over the duration of your course. For Ts&Cs and to find out more, visit our funding page.

General scholarships

Scholarships are available for excellence in academic performance, sport and music and are awarded on merit. For further information on the range of awards available and to make an application see our scholarships website.

The Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence

At Kent we recognise, encourage and reward excellence. We have created the Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence, which will be awarded to any applicant who achieves a minimum of AAA over three A levels, or the equivalent qualifications as specified on our funding pages. Please note that details of the scholarship for 2015 entry have not yet been finalised and are subject to change.

The University of Kent offers specialized programmes in Asian Studies and Hispanic Studies designed to provide students with comprehensive knowledge and understanding of these diverse regions and cultures. The Asian Studies programme encompasses a multidisciplinary approach, integrating history, language, politics, and cultural studies related to East Asia, South Asia, and Southeast Asia. Students have the opportunity to learn languages such as Chinese, Japanese, or Korean, enhancing their communication skills and cultural competence. The curriculum emphasizes contemporary issues, including economic development, social change, and regional security, allowing students to gain insights into the dynamic dynamics of Asian countries. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, and research projects, students develop critical thinking, analytical, and intercultural skills essential for careers in international business, diplomacy, academia, or global NGOs.

Similarly, the Hispanic Studies programme focuses on the languages, literatures, and cultures of Spanish-speaking countries across Latin America and Spain. It offers language modules alongside cultural, historical, and literary courses, enabling students to deepen their understanding of Hispanic societies’ social and political contexts. The programme promotes linguistic proficiency and cultural literacy, preparing graduates for careers in international relations, translation, journalism, or cultural management. Both programmes benefit from the university's strong links with relevant organizations and institutions, providing opportunities for internships, study abroad exchanges, and research collaborations. The university’s dedicated staff and resources support students through personalized academic guidance, ensuring they acquire both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The duration of each programme typically spans three years full-time, with options for joint or minor specializations. Graduates of these programmes will be equipped with a global perspective, language competence, and intercultural understanding, making them well-prepared for global careers in a variety of sectors.