Overview

We cover a broad area of expertise, from regional to comparative Asian studies, classical and contemporary, including ancient philosophy and religion, the comparative politics of Asia, classical and modern literature, East Asian media and films, imperialism, colonial rule and decolonisation, political and economic transformation. We are a multi-disciplinary unit, where disciplinary and inter-disciplinary research are equally welcome and encouraged.

East Asian Studies at The University of Edinburgh has close links with the Scottish Centre for Chinese Studies, and the Confucius Institute. Our internationally respected academic staff, excellent facilities and academic, professional and cultural links with the East Asian community and East Asian organisations reinforce the world-leading nature of our research, and the prestige of our postgraduate opportunities. Covering a wide spectrum of interests, it also allows for joint supervision, should your research goals be interdisciplinary.

Career opportunities

You will acquire an interdisciplinary understanding of the major issues in East Asian society, politics, culture, economy, international relations, and history and will be able to relate those to broader social, political and economic trends in the East Asian region and globally. During the programme you will also be familiarised with opportunities about further job opportunities in the public and private sector, in the UK, East Asia and beyond.

You will gain the necessary knowledge and skills to analyse, compare and assess competing claims and make informed judgements about them. You will additionally gain transferable skills, including analysis presentation, communication, the use of new technologies in a learning environment, and team work. Such knowledge and skills will be valuable assets on the job market.

Having acquired the tools to analyse and understand East Asian relations in a global context, you could apply your skills in professional areas, such as diplomacy, national and international organisations, and research institutions.