Asian Studies and Philosophy

The Bachelor of Arts in Asian Studies and Philosophy at the University of Kent offers students an in-depth exploration of the diverse cultural, historical, and philosophical traditions of Asia. This interdisciplinary programme is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the multiple regions that comprise Asia, including East Asia, South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Central Asia, with a focus on their unique philosophies, religions, political systems, and societal structures. Throughout the course, students will engage with a wide range of topics, from ancient philosophical texts and religious doctrines to contemporary social and political issues, fostering critical thinking and intercultural awareness.

The programme combines language study opportunities with modules that examine traditional philosophies such as Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Islamic thought, alongside modern intellectual and political developments across Asian countries. Students will also have the chance to develop their language skills in Mandarin, Japanese, or other Asian languages, enhancing their academic and professional prospects in fields related to international relations, diplomacy, business, and cultural exchange. The curriculum is carefully structured to balance theoretical knowledge with practical skills, including research methods and analysis, allowing graduates to pursue careers in academia, government, NGOs, or the private sector.

Academic staff involved in the programme are experts in Asian cultures, philosophy, and languages, providing students with high-quality teaching and research supervision. The university also offers optional study abroad placements and internship opportunities that enable students to gain valuable international experience and practical understanding of the region's societies and institutions. With a focus on fostering open-mindedness, analytical skills, and intercultural competence, the Asian Studies and Philosophy programme prepares students for a globalized world where understanding diverse cultural perspectives is increasingly important. Graduates will leave equipped with a broad intellectual foundation and specialized knowledge, ready to contribute thoughtfully to academic, professional, and societal debates regarding Asia and beyond.

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 36 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

You have the option of taking a year abroad at a partner university in Asia, allowing you to immerse yourself in a different culture.

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.

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.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

take an IELTS test.

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 level:

• 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.

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Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

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 Bachelor of Arts in Asian Studies and Philosophy at the University of Kent offers students a comprehensive interdisciplinary education that explores the diverse cultural, philosophical, and historical landscapes of Asia. This program is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of Asian societies, languages, and philosophical traditions, enabling them to critically analyze the role of Asia in global contexts. The curriculum combines language acquisition—offering options to study Asian languages such as Mandarin, Japanese, or Korean—with core modules in Asian history, culture, and philosophy. Students will examine major philosophical movements, religious practices, and contemporary issues facing Asian countries today. The program emphasizes developing critical thinking, analytical skills, and cross-cultural awareness, preparing graduates for careers in international relations, diplomacy, academia, or the private sector.

Throughout their studies, students engage with a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, and independent research projects. The program often encourages study abroad opportunities, allowing students to immerse themselves in Asian cultures and improve language proficiency through exchanges with partner institutions in Asia. Assessment methods include essays, presentations, exams, and dissertations, fostering a well-rounded academic experience. The faculty comprises experts with extensive research backgrounds in Asian studies, philosophy, and related fields, providing students with access to high-quality supervision and mentorship. The program also benefits from the university's strong links with cultural institutions and organizations, offering internships and networking opportunities. Graduates of this program are equipped with valuable intercultural competencies, language skills, and a nuanced understanding of Asian philosophies, making them competitive candidates for careers in international agencies, NGOs, cultural organizations, and further academic research.