Asian Studies and Religious Studies

Asian Studies and Religious Studies at the University of Kent offer an interdisciplinary academic pathway designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the diverse cultures, religions, and societies across Asia. This programme explores the rich historical, philosophical, and contemporary issues that shape the Asian continent, fostering critical thinking and cultural awareness. Students will examine religious traditions such as Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, Taoism, and Shinto, analyzing their origins, development, and impact on society. The curriculum combines language studies, historical analysis, and cultural studies to give a well-rounded perspective on the region’s complexities. Throughout the course, students engage with primary sources, participate in discussions, and undertake research projects that develop their analytical skills. The programme emphasizes a comparative approach, encouraging learners to draw connections between different religious and cultural systems within Asia and beyond. Additionally, students have the opportunity to study Asian languages, which enhances their ability to access original texts and communicate with diverse communities. The programme prepares graduates for careers in international relations, diplomacy, cultural institutions, NGOs, or further academic research. With dedicated support from experienced faculty, students also benefit from research seminars, field trips, and collaborations with Asian community organizations. The flexible modular structure allows students to tailor their studies to particular interests, whether focused on specific regional areas such as South Asia, East Asia, or Southeast Asia, or thematic topics like religious practices, social change, or political movements. By the end of this programme, graduates will possess a nuanced understanding of Asian religious landscapes, cultural diversity, and the socio-political issues affecting the region today, making them valuable contributors to global discourse and intercultural exchange.

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.

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:

• 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 a comprehensive program in Asian Studies and Religious Studies designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the diverse cultures, religions, and historical developments across Asia. The program combines interdisciplinary approaches, integrating insights from history, anthropology, religious studies, and political studies to give students a well-rounded perspective on the region's complex societies and spiritual traditions. Students will explore major religious traditions such as Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, Confucianism, Taoism, and Shinto, alongside an examination of their historical contexts, philosophical foundations, and contemporary practices. The curriculum also covers various aspects of Asian history, including ancient civilizations, trade routes such as the Silk Road, colonial influences, and modern political dynamics. Language study is an integral part of the program, with options to learn Asian languages such as Chinese, Japanese, or Korean, enhancing students’ cultural comprehension and communication skills. The program encourages critical thinking and analytical skills through coursework, research projects, and fieldwork opportunities. Students can choose to specialize in particular regions such as East Asia, South Asia, or Southeast Asia, tailoring their studies to specific interests. The university's research centers and library resources support an active research environment, enabling students to engage with ongoing scholarly debates and develop original ideas. Graduates of the program are prepared for careers in academia, diplomatic service, international development organizations, cultural heritage management, and media related to Asian countries. The program emphasizes global perspectives and cultural sensitivities, preparing students for international careers or further study. Overall, the Asian Studies and Religious Studies program at the University of Kent aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to understand the complexities of Asian societies and to contribute meaningfully to intercultural dialogue and international cooperation.