Contemporary East Asian Studies

Contemporary East Asian Studies at the University of Duisburg-Essen offers an interdisciplinary and comprehensive curriculum designed to deepen students' understanding of the dynamic and rapidly changing societies of East Asia. This program provides a rigorous academic foundation in the political, economic, cultural, and social developments across China, Japan, South Korea, and other East Asian countries. Students will explore the historical contexts that have shaped modern East Asia, analyze contemporary issues such as globalization, regional security, economic development, and environmental challenges, and critically examine the diverse cultural expressions and societal transformations within this diverse region. The program emphasizes both theoretical approaches and empirical research methods, enabling students to develop analytical skills essential for careers in international organizations, government agencies, business, journalism, and further academic pursuits.

Throughout the program, students will benefit from a multidisciplinary perspective, integrating insights from political science, history, sociology, anthropology, and area studies. The curriculum includes language courses to improve communication skills and foster a deeper cultural understanding, as well as opportunities for study abroad and internships to gain practical experience and global networking opportunities. Faculty members are experts in East Asian studies, offering personalized mentorship and fostering a vibrant academic community committed to research excellence and cultural exchange. Graduates of the program will be well-equipped to understand the complex realities of East Asian countries, critically evaluate current issues, and contribute to international dialogue and policy development related to this influential region. Whether pursuing careers in diplomacy, academia, international business, or nonprofit organizations, students will find this program a valuable step toward becoming informed global citizens with specialized expertise in East Asian affairs.

Educational organisation

The structure of the MA programme includes intensive language training, interdisciplinary modules as well as discipline-specific modules on East Asian studies. Discipline-specific methodological training is both integrated within the modules and offered as separate modules. The Master's thesis brings together theoretical, methodological, regional and language competencies in the form of an independent research project on an innovative theme in contemporary East Asia.
The curriculum of the MA CEAS programme (120 ECTS credits) comprises:

• three introductory modules (18 ECTS): disciplinary approaches to East Asian studies

(Politics and Society in East Asia, The Economy of East Asia, Economic and Social Science Perspectives on East Asia)

• three intensive language modules (36 ECTS): Intensive Japanese 1-3, Intensive Chinese 1-3, or Intensive Korean 1-3
• six advanced East Asian studies modules (36 ECTS) (list cf. below)
• a Master's thesis (with attached seminar) (30 ECTS)

List of selected modules in Advanced East Asian studies (6 ECTS each) (students of the MA CEAS select six modules):

• Institutions and Organisations in Japan
• Work and Employment in Japan
• Japanese Society and Social Structure
• Japanese Politics
• International Economic and Business Issues of Japan
• Japan's Political Economy
• The Economy of China
• Business and Economy in China
• The Chinese Society
• Recent Developments in the Chinese Society
• China's International Relations
• Political Development in China
• The Economy of East Asia
• Economic Developments in East Asia
• Contemporary Developments in the Korean Society and Economy

Study abroad unit(s)

Not required: students are offered the opportunity to study at our partner universities in Asia for up to six months.

Internships

No internships are required but they are nonetheless recommended.
Students are supported in their search for an internship through e.g. the Konfuzius Institute, AIESEC, KOPRA.

Forms of assessment

Oral and written tests, seminar papers and presentations, MA thesis

Course objectives

Students completing the MA degree will be prepared for further studies at the doctoral level or for high-level positions in politics, including political consulting, government and non-governmental think-tanks, in the economy and in international organisations where intensive knowledge of East Asia and language competency is in high-demand.

Language requirements

English language: TOEFL +560 points (paper-based)/+220 points (computer-based) or proof of equivalent English language proficiency

Academic requirements

• University or university of applied sciences degree equivalent to a Bachelor's degree in social or economic sciences with a least 180 credits (ECTS) and a minimum grade average of 2.5 according to the German grading system
• English language proficiency at level C1 (according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, Teaching, Assessment)
• German language skills are strongly recommended.
• Letter of recommendation from a university professor
• Successful interview

Details: http://www.uni-due.de/in-east/study_programs/ma_ceas/

Enrolment fees

Approx. 270 EUR (includes free pass for use of public transport in North Rhine-Westphalia)

Costs of living

At least 500-600 EUR per month

Job opportunities

The institute occasionally has positions for student assistants.

Funding opportunities within the university

In cooperation with the regional government and private sponsors, the university awards stipends of 300 EUR per month to excellent students.
http://www.uni-due.de/en/allround_support.php

Arrival support

See: https://www.uni-due.de/international/index_en.shtml

Services and support for international students

See: https://www.uni-due.de/international/index_en.shtml

Accommodation

Please see: https://www.uni-due.de/international/index_en.shtml