Overview

The East Asian Cultures bachelor programme at University of California, Irvine (UCI) focuses on the regional dynamics of cultural and social transformations across East Asia. This multidisciplinary course allows students to examine intra-regional relationships between countries while situating them within a broader global context. By integrating regional study with theoretical issues, the curriculum prepares students to understand these civilisations on their own terms.

Students gain dual perspectives by recognising the unique affinities shared by East Asian civilisations and the various conflicts encountered during their interactions with the rest of the world. The programme encourages a comprehensive understanding of how these nations shape and are shaped by global influences.

Why East Asian Cultures at University of California, Irvine (UCI)?

The Department of East Asian Studies provides a robust academic environment within the School of Humanities. Students benefit from a curriculum that balances language proficiency with diverse elective options in history, art, and media. The university also encourages global immersion, allowing students to complete up to a year of their language study through approved study abroad programmes.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 56682 per year
National fee: USD 56682 per year
Local fee: USD 19080 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum requires the completion of 13 courses, focusing on language specialisation and regional expertise. Modules may include:

Intermediate Mandarin Chinese
Intermediate Japanese
Intermediate Korean
Cultural Studies in East Asia
Junior-Senior Colloquium
Chinese Literature
Japanese Literature
Korean Literature
East Asian Popular Culture

Students also select from a wide range of elective subjects to broaden their regional knowledge. These include:

Later Imperial China
Classical Chinese
Structure of Japanese
Contemporary Japan
Korean Society and Culture
Asian Religions
East Asian Cinema
Gender in East Asia
Asian Art

Careers with East Asian Cultures

Graduates from this programme are equipped with the linguistic and cultural competency required for various international roles. The multidisciplinary nature of the degree prepares students for careers in sectors such as international relations, education, and global media. By mastering a regional language and understanding complex social dynamics, alumni are well-positioned for professional paths involving East Asian affairs.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Mandarin Chinese

Japanese

Korean

Topics in Cultural Studies in East Asia

Chinese Literature

Japanese Literature

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-21 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

180 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Irvine, United States

Disciplines

Area & Cultural Studies Asian studies View 808 other Bachelors in Area & Cultural Studies in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

3.4

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

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IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

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Other requirements

General requirements

You must receive a 3.0 GPA (3.4 for non-California residents) or higher in the 15 required “a-g” subject courses, with no grade lower than a C.

UCI will not consider SAT or ACT scores for admission or scholarship purposes. After enrollment, exams may be used for class placement or some graduation requirements.

Personal Insight Questions (your personal insight questions should be exactly that – personal. This is your opportunity to tell us about yourself, what matters to you, your hopes, ambitions, life experiences, and inspirations. Key points about the personal insight questions include: freshman applicants choose four out of eight questions to answer, each response is limited to a maximum of 350 words. We encourage you to take your time. Be open, be reflective, and be honest. Your personal insight questions provide context for the rest of your application.)

English proficiency requirements

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

56682 USD / year

≈ 56682 USD / year
Out-of-State

56682 USD / year

≈ 56682 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

19080 USD / year

≈ 19080 USD / year

Living costs

Irvine

United States

1560 - 2585 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for East Asian Cultures.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Irvine

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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