Indology, also known as South Asian Studies, is the academic study of the history and cultures, languages and literature of the Indian subcontinent and as such is a subset of Asian studies.

The term "Indology" (in German Indologie) is often associated with German science and is more often used in the names of departments at universities in Germany and continental Europe than in the English-speaking academy. In the Netherlands, the term "Indology" was used to refer to the study of Indian history and culture in preparation for colonial service in the Dutch East Indies.

Classical Indology mainly includes linguistic studies of Sanskrit literature, Pali and Tamil literature, as well as the study of Dharmic religions (such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, etc.). Some scholars distinguish classical Indology from modern Indology, the first focuses more on Sanskrit, Tamil and other sources of the ancient language, the second - on modern India, its politics and sociology.

A Bachelor's degree in Indian Studies gives you a broad understanding of India and, to a lesser extent, of its neighbors: Tibet, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.

Coursework in the specialty "Indian Studies" combines language learning with interdisciplinary approaches to understanding the region. Specialists study the Indian language, choosing from Bengali, Hindi, Sanskrit, Urdu, etc. They also study the history, geography, politics, literature and religions of the region with teachers who are experts in these and other fields.

Hindu Studies

Hindu studies is the study of the traditions and practices of the Indian subcontinent (especially Hinduism), considered as a branch of Indology. Since the mid-nineties, some universities have started offering doctoral programs in Hindu theology.

Is this for you?

Studying India attracts students from all walks of life and with a variety of interests. As a rule, they have some of the following qualities:

• Do you want to learn the Indian language

• Concern about the history and current state of India and other countries of the subcontinent

• Passion for the history of empire, colonialism and the struggle for independence of India

• Awareness of geopolitical issues in an increasingly globalized world

• Interest in many religions emerging and co-existing in India

• Intellectual curiosity and imagination

• The desire to gain experience by working with other people who have studied, lived or traveled in India

The most popular schools for studying Hinduism in the specialty and diploma program in India offer programs that focus on a group of South Asian theologies and philosophies known collectively as Hinduism; together with religious history and cultural and social manifestations of faith. Includes instruction in Hindu theology and philosophy (Dharma); literature (Vedas, Upanishads, Epics and commentaries); Hindu pantheon, sects and movements; schools and disciplines; and related arts and sciences.