East Asia is home to one of the world’s greatest cultural traditions. In addition to its cultural significance, East Asia is the most dynamic area of the world economy. The globalisation and economic growth occurring in the East Asian region today and in the future offers a great number of opportunities for students who are skilled in East Asian languages and familiar with East Asian cultures. By studying a graduate course in East Asian studies, you will gain a competitive edge and develop skills that are in short supply and high demand. Studying an East Asian language and culture to graduate level will create employment opportunities in careers as diverse as finance, business, translation and interpreting, the media, diplomacy and education. Not only will you learn the culture and language of countries that interest you, by studying a graduate East Asian studies course, you will also be establishing the foundations for an exciting and dynamic career.

Japan

Japan is still the second largest economy in the world and will remain key to the long-term prosperity of the East Asian region. Needless to say, Japan, is more than just business: rich in culture and history, it is a complex, dynamic and fascinating society that contrasts high-tech cityscapes with the temples, mountains and forests beloved of the woodblock print artists of the past.

China

China continues to be economically, politically and culturally important. No other economy in the world had grown at the pace of China’s over the last twenty years. With China’s growing economic confidence comes rising engagement in global politics and domestic change, and rapid economic expansion has resulted in an improvement in material living standards unparalleled in human history.

Korea

In just under forty years, the Republic of Korea has been transformed into one of the leading trading nations and economies of the world. Korean goods are exported to developing and industrialised countries. By understanding Korea’s history, society and culture, we can appreciate how it Korea made this turn-around possible.

To gain entry onto a graduate East Asian studies course, you need a good first degree in any subject. Generally speaking, previous knowledge of an East Asian language is not usually a requirement for entry onto these graduate courses but you should check the admissions requirements of your institution as these may differ. If you are a native speaker of an East Asian language then you should consider that East-Asia related degrees that include a language component will not usually be suitable. Good luck applying to your graduate East Asian studies course.