East Asian Languages and Cultural Studies

The East Asian Languages and Cultural Studies program at the University of California offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding the rich and diverse cultures, histories, languages, and societies of East Asia, including China, Japan, Korea, and surrounding regions. This program is designed to equip students with a deep linguistic proficiency in one or more East Asian languages, such as Mandarin Chinese, Japanese, or Korean, while also fostering a broad understanding of the cultural, social, artistic, and political developments that have shaped East Asia over centuries.

Students enrolled in this program will benefit from a curriculum that combines language acquisition with critical analyses of East Asian literature, philosophy, history, art, and contemporary issues. The program emphasizes both classical and modern texts, providing students with the skills to interpret cultural artifacts and written works within their proper historical and cultural contexts. Through coursework and research, students will explore topics such as traditional and modern Chinese dynasties, Japanese aesthetics and social change, Korean history and identity, as well as current regional dynamics involving economic development, diplomacy, and international relations.

Faculty members are renowned experts in their fields, offering personalized mentorship and engaging students through seminars, language labs, and research projects. The program provides numerous opportunities for students to participate in study abroad programs, internships, and cultural exchange initiatives, immersing them in East Asian languages and societies firsthand.

Graduates of this program are well-prepared for careers in academia, translation, international relations, diplomacy, cultural preservation, journalism, and business. They develop critical thinking, cross-cultural communication skills, and linguistic dexterity, equipping them to work effectively in international settings or pursue advanced studies. The program’s interdisciplinary approach aims to foster an appreciation of East Asian cultures and prepare students to contribute meaningfully to a globalized world with nuanced understanding and respect for cultural diversity. Whether students are interested in scholarly research, cultural advocacy, or international careers, the East Asian Languages and Cultural Studies program provides a solid foundation for their professional and personal development.

Two tracks of study are available. The academic track (Plan 1) is designed for students who will go on to pursue the Ph.D. The professional track (Plan 2) is for students who will go into careers in business or government or combine their M.A. with other professional degrees. Students in Plan 1 write a thesis; students in Plan 2 take a comprehensive examination.

Academic Track, PLAN 1:

Plan 1 is the academic track, intended for students who go on to pursue the Ph.D. It requires a total of 60 units of coursework in Chinese, Japanese, or East Asian Cultural Studies, and 12 units of thesis work. The 60 units will come from a combination of graduate or upper division courses on the country of specialization, advanced modern language, classical language, and courses outside the country of specialization. The thesis should demonstrate the student’s ability to do original research using sources in Chinese, Japanese, or Korean.

Professional Track, PLAN 2:

Plan 2 is intended for students who will go on to careers outside of academia. It requires 64 units of coursework in Chinese, Japanese, or East Asian Cultural Studies, and 8 units for the comprehensive exams (a total of 72 units). The 64 units will come from a combination of graduate or upper division courses on the country of specialization, advanced modern language, classical language, and courses in other departments (economics, communications, etc.) commensurate with the student’s career goals. Under this plan, a comprehensive examination is substituted for the thesis. Candidates will be examined in two fields to be determined in consultation with an advisory committee.

Requirements

• Online application: https://www.graddiv.ucsb.edu/eapp
• Statement of Purpose, Personal Achievements/Contributions, Resume or CV, and Writing Sample (submitted in the online application)
• Three Letters of Recommendation (submitted online)
• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended (submitted online)
• GRE General test scores
• TOEFL scores 550 Paper-Based Test (PBT), 80 Internet-Based Test (IBT) or IELTS (International English Language Testing System) Overall Band score of 7 or higher (if applicable)
• Final/Official transcripts will be required for all applicants who are admitted and have indicated their intent to enroll at UC Santa Barbara by submitting a Statement of Intent to Register (SIR). UC Santa Barbara reserves the right to require official transcripts at any time during the admissions process, and rescind any offer of admission made if discrepancies between uploaded and official transcript(s) are found.

Scholarships

Fellowships & Departmental Block Grants

Fellowship support in a variety of forms is available for particularly strong candidates. Qualified incoming students in the humanities will be considered for one-year small-department Regents’ Fellowships, which award $14,000, fees and tuition; and for Junior Fellowships from the Interdisciplinary Humanities Center, which awards up to $2000. Qualified incoming and continuing students who are U.S. citizens, will also be considered for the Foreign Language and Area Studies Fellowships, which include a $14,000 stipend and 100% payment of tuition and/or fees. The Department of East Asian Languages and Cultural Studies also offers a Kenneth Pai Fellowship which provides full financial support annually to one student working on Chinese literature. Additional department funding is available through small block grants of varying amounts which can be used for fees and/or tuition. These funds are available to qualified new and continuing students. All fellowships are disbursed by the Graduate Division. 

Student Academic Appointments

Most financial support for graduate students in East Asian studies comes from teaching assistantships. Students are responsible (with supervision) for teaching a variety of East Asian language courses at various levels. Teaching assistantships currently provide a stipend, fee offset and health insurance for the academic year. Graduate students might also be appointed as readers for the department.

Need-Based Aid

Extramural Funding

The East Asian Languages and Cultures undergraduate program at the University of California offers students comprehensive training in the languages, literatures, and cultures of East Asia, including Chinese, Japanese, and Korean. The program aims to cultivate proficiency in these languages along with an understanding of the historical, social, and cultural contexts that shape East Asian societies. Students engage in rigorous language courses, which range from introductory to advanced levels, ensuring they develop functional language skills and cultural literacy.

The curriculum emphasizes analytical skills, critical thinking, and cross-cultural understanding, preparing graduates for careers in academia, diplomacy, international business, translation, and cultural analysis. In addition to language study, students have opportunities to explore East Asian history, philosophy, film, literature, and art through a variety of courses. The program encourages cultural immersion and exchange, often integrating opportunities for study abroad in East Asia, which enhances language proficiency and cultural knowledge.

Research centers and affiliated faculty provide resources for specialized projects, conferences, and internships. The program often collaborates with other departments and institutions to offer interdisciplinary coursework, emphasizing the relevance of East Asian studies in a globalized world. Students are also encouraged to participate in language clubs, cultural events, and community outreach activities to deepen their understanding and engagement with East Asian communities.

Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue advanced studies or careers in fields requiring expertise in East Asian languages and cultures. The university's extensive network and resources support students in internships, research opportunities, and post-graduate employment. The program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating linguistic proficiency with cultural competency to produce graduates with a nuanced understanding of East Asia's diverse and dynamic societies.