East Asian Studies

East Asian Studies at Princeton University offers an interdisciplinary and comprehensive program dedicated to exploring the rich histories, cultures, languages, and contemporary issues of East Asia, including China, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan. Students in this program engage with a diverse array of disciplines such as history, politics, literature, art, philosophy, and economics, providing a well-rounded understanding of the region's complex societies and their global interactions. The curriculum is designed to develop deep linguistic skills in Chinese, Japanese, and Korean, enabling students to access primary sources and engage more intimately with the cultures studied. Through coursework, research projects, and intensive language programs, students gain analytical and critical thinking skills necessary to address the challenges and opportunities facing East Asia today. The program emphasizes experiential learning, including opportunities for study abroad, internships, and collaborative research with faculty who are leading experts in their fields. Students are encouraged to examine contemporary issues such as economic development, environmental challenges, political dynamics, social transformations, and cultural innovations in the region. By fostering a global perspective, East Asian Studies prepares students for careers in government, diplomacy, international business, journalism, academia, and non-governmental organizations. The program also offers personalized academic advising and encourages student participation in conferences, workshops, and publications to enhance their scholarly experience. Graduates of the program are equipped with a nuanced understanding of East Asian societies and the skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to intercultural dialogue and international cooperation. Overall, East Asian Studies at Princeton provides a rigorous, engaging, and interdisciplinary platform for students committed to exploring the complexities of one of the world’s most influential regions.

The East Asian Studies program at Princeton University offers a comprehensive interdisciplinary curriculum designed to deepen students' understanding of the histories, cultures, languages, and societies of East Asia. The program provides a rigorous academic framework that combines coursework in history, literature, political science, anthropology, and language studies, enabling students to develop a nuanced perspective on the dynamic region comprising China, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan. Students have the opportunity to choose from a diverse array of courses that cover traditional and contemporary topics, including East Asian philosophy, religion, art, economic development, and international relations. The program emphasizes the importance of language proficiency, encouraging students to attain advanced skills in Chinese, Japanese, or Korean through dedicated language courses and immersion experiences.

Princeton’s East Asian Studies program also promotes experiential learning through internships, study abroad programs, and research projects that foster direct engagement with East Asian societies. Faculty members are distinguished experts in their fields, providing mentorship and supporting students in their academic and career pursuits. The program aims to produce graduates equipped with critical analytical skills, cultural literacy, and a global perspective that prepare them for careers in academia, government, international organizations, journalism, business, and cultural exchange. Additionally, students can participate in seminars, workshops, and cultural events that enhance their understanding of East Asian traditions and contemporary issues. Whether students are interested in pursuing a major, minor, or simply exploring a regional area of interest, the East Asian Studies program at Princeton provides a rich, multidisciplinary education that prepares students to engage thoughtfully with one of the world’s most influential and rapidly changing regions.

The East Asian Studies program at Princeton University requires students to complete a combination of foundational coursework, language proficiency, and specialized seminars. Students must demonstrate proficiency in at least one East Asian language, with options including Chinese, Japanese, or Korean, through coursework or standardized testing. The core curriculum includes courses in East Asian history, culture, and politics, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the region's social and historical contexts. To graduate, students are typically required to complete a set number of credits in related fields, including anthropology, history, political science, and literature, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of area studies. An integral part of the program is participating in language immersion and cultural activities, which may include study-abroad programs or language intensive courses, to enhance linguistic and cultural competence. Students pursuing honors may be required to undertake a significant research project or thesis under faculty supervision, demonstrating critical analysis and original scholarship. Electives allow students to specialize in specific countries, periods, or thematic areas such as economic development, diplomatic history, or contemporary media. The program encourages participation in internships or research opportunities to gain practical experience in East Asian affairs. Regular assessments include written examinations, research papers, and presentations. The program aims to prepare students for careers in government, international organizations, academia, journalism, or business focused on East Asian regions. Overall, the curriculum emphasizes language mastery, regional expertise, and analytical skills, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to engage with East Asian societies and issues professionally.

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.

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The East Asian Studies program at Princeton University offers students a range of funding opportunities to support their academic pursuits and research activities. Financial aid options include fellowships, scholarships, and research grants designed to assist both undergraduate and graduate students. For undergraduates, Princeton provides need-based financial aid packages that are means-tested, ensuring that students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds can access the program without financial barriers. Graduate students pursuing Master’s and Ph.D. degrees in East Asian Studies can benefit from teaching assistantships, research assistantships, and departmental fellowships, which offer competitive stipends and tuition remission. External fellowships and grants may also be available through institutions such as the Fulbright Program, the Japan Foundation, and other Asian studies organizations, providing additional funding for research projects and study abroad experiences in East Asia. The university encourages students to explore external funding sources early in their academic planning to maximize available resources. Additionally, the East Asian Studies department periodically awards departmental fellowships based on academic merit and research proposals, supporting students engaged in specialized research topics within East Asian history, politics, language, and culture. All students are advised to consult the university’s financial aid office and the East Asian Studies department for detailed information and application procedures related to specific funding opportunities. The comprehensive financial support system at Princeton aims to alleviate economic burdens and enable students to fully engage with their academic and research interests in East Asian Studies, fostering a diverse and vibrant scholarly community.

The East Asian Studies program at Princeton University offers students an immersive exploration of the cultures, histories, languages, and societies of East Asia, including China, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan. This interdisciplinary program is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of East Asian civilizations, combining coursework in history, literature, political science, anthropology, and language studies. Students have the opportunity to develop proficiency in one or more East Asian languages, such as Mandarin Chinese, Japanese, or Korean, through rigorous language training that complements their regional studies.

The program emphasizes both theoretical and practical knowledge, encouraging students to analyze contemporary issues within East Asia while also exploring historical developments that have shaped the region's current socio-political landscape. Students can engage in research projects, internships, and study abroad programs to deepen their understanding and gain firsthand experience. Princeton's East Asian Studies faculty comprises experts in various fields related to the region, providing mentorship and guiding students through their academic pursuits.

The curriculum is flexible, allowing students to tailor their studies to specific interests, whether they lie in East Asian literature, political economy, international relations, or cultural anthropology. The program prepares graduates for careers in academia, government, non-profit organizations, journalism, and international business, where knowledge of East Asian languages and cultures is increasingly valuable. Additionally, the program fosters a vibrant intellectual community through seminars, lectures, and cultural events, encouraging students to engage critically with complex regional issues and develop a nuanced understanding of East Asia's role in global affairs.

Overall, Princeton’s East Asian Studies program aims to cultivate informed global citizens equipped with linguistic skills, regional expertise, and a deep appreciation for the diverse traditions and modern transformations within East Asia.