Asian Studies University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

Overview

The Asian Studies programme at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) provides a rigorous academic framework for students to examine the complexities of the Asian continent. This undergraduate degree encourages a deep understanding of regional dynamics through an interdisciplinary lens that connects local issues to global trends.

Students enrolled in this major have the unique opportunity to focus their academic enquiries on specific subregions, including Central Asia, East Asia, South Asia, or Southeast Asia. By grounding their studies in broad international themes, learners develop the analytical tools necessary to address the particular social, political, and cultural concerns of these diverse geographical areas.

Why Asian Studies at University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)?

The programme is housed within the International Institute, benefiting from the extensive resources of the College of Letters and Science. This positioning allows students to access a vast network of academic expertise and research facilities dedicated to international and area studies. The curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing for a modern perspective that integrates various scholarly disciplines.

UCLA provides a supportive environment for undergraduates, offering dedicated academic programmes and transition services to ensure student success. The university's commitment to interdisciplinary learning is reflected in the way the major encourages students to explore broad global issues before specialising in their chosen regional focus. This approach ensures graduates possess both wide-ranging knowledge and specific expertise.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 53302 per year
• National fee: USD 53302 per year
• Local fee: USD 15700 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured to provide a balanced view of the region through various disciplinary approaches. Modules may include:

• Asian Studies
• Central Asian Studies
• East Asian Studies
• South Asian Studies
• Southeast Asian Studies
• International and Area Studies

The programme allows for significant exploration during the first two years, enabling students to take introductory courses across different disciplines before formally declaring their major. This flexibility ensures that students can align their academic choices with their evolving interests and long-term professional objectives.

Careers with Asian Studies

Graduates from this programme are well-prepared for a variety of professional paths that require a sophisticated understanding of international affairs and regional cultures. The interdisciplinary nature of the degree equips students with transferable skills in analysis, communication, and cross-cultural competency, which are highly valued in the global job market.

Potential career destinations include roles in international relations, government service, non-governmental organisations, and global business sectors. Many students also utilise the UCLA Career Center to transition into specialised industries or pursue further academic research in area studies, law, or public policy. The programme's focus on modern international issues ensures that graduates remain competitive in rapidly changing global environments.