Overview

The B.A. in Korean Literature and Culture at University of California, Irvine (UCI) provides a comprehensive academic framework for understanding the historical and literary achievements of the Korean peninsula. Students explore a diverse range of subjects including religion, linguistics, and media to gain a nuanced perspective on Korean society. The curriculum is designed to foster high-level language proficiency alongside critical analytical skills.

This undergraduate major requires the completion of 13 specialised courses, totalling 52 units. Beyond core linguistic training, the programme encourages a comparative approach by requiring students to study the literature and culture of other East Asian nations.

Why Korean Literature and Culture at University of California, Irvine (UCI)?

The programme is distinguished by its integration of language study with deep cultural immersion. University of California, Irvine (UCI) offers a robust academic environment within the School of Humanities, providing students with access to expert faculty and specialised colloquiums. The curriculum is flexible, allowing students to tailor their elective choices to specific interests such as gender studies, cinema, or philosophy.

Furthermore, the university maintains a strong residence requirement to ensure academic rigour, while simultaneously encouraging students to participate in study abroad programmes. Spending up to a year in Korea allows students to apply their language skills in real-world settings and experience the culture first-hand, which is a significant advantage for those pursuing careers in international fields.

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 includes a mix of language mastery and thematic cultural modules. Modules may include:

Advanced Korean
Korean Literature
Korean Society and Culture
Korean Literature and Society
Junior-Senior Colloquium
Asian Religions
East Asian Popular Culture
East Asian Cultures
East Asian Cinema

Careers with Korean Literature and Culture

Graduates from this programme are prepared for a variety of professional paths that require cultural expertise and linguistic fluency. The analytical and communication skills developed during the course are highly valued in sectors such as international relations, education, and media. Many students also find opportunities in translation, cultural consultancy, and governmental organisations where deep knowledge of East Asian societies is essential.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Korean

Topics
Korean Literature

Topics in Korean Society
Culture

Topics in Korean Literature and Society

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

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Credits

180 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Irvine, United States

Disciplines

Area & Cultural Studies Literature View 808 other Bachelors in Area & Cultural Studies in United States

Join for free or log in to access our complete career info list.

Academic requirements

GPA

3.4

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

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

Need help with your student visa?

Get Visa Support

Get personalized guidance from a certified VFS Global advisor and save 20% through Studyportals.

Avoid common visa mistakes and delays
Know exactly what documents you need
Get a clear checklist tailored to your situation

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Korean Literature and Culture.

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

Our partners