If you're looking for a career in researching cultures, a masters in Asian studies could be a good fit. Learn about the different geographical regions in Asia, ranging from the history to cultural differences, with this degree program.
Asia is more than the world's largest continent geographically - it also comprises the majority of the global population as well as a significant chunk of international businesses and the global supply chain.
In addition, the historical, political, social and cultural impact of Asia on the rest of the world is significant, especially in a business and political environment where globalization is the new norm and international barriers seem less demarcated than ever. A degree in Asian studies might help prepare students to pursue a career in this environment by providing historical background and cultural context for this important part of the world.
Similar to its counterpart in American studies, masters in asian studies programs typically boast an interdisciplinary course of study that covers a broad range of subject matter. Many programs prime students by offering historical background and context for major players in the Asian social and political arena over several periods throughout history. Due in part to economic and political prevalence, schools may choose to focus on certain subsets of Asia, such as China, Japan, Southeast Asia or the Middle East.
Aside from historical studies, students in an Asian studies master’s degree program might have the option to explore cultural backgrounds from several perspectives, either focusing on humanities studies or business and government issues. Art and literature criticism can center on prominent Asian creators and significant works, while
those interested in a different approach may wish to take courses emphasizing business practices, international relations or foreign policy.
The wide variety of subject matter covered by a degree in Asian studies could mean that there may not be specific prerequisites or degree requirements for some programs. Students are encouraged to check with their academic institution to determine if any such requirements exist.
The multidisciplinary nature of Asian studies programs may leave students with a variety of possible career paths to pursue. Those interested in government may wish to seek to pursue a profession in political science and diplomacy. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that these professionals earned a 2012 median annual salary of $102,000, with jobs expected to increase by 21 percent through 2022.1
Some private companies and even government organizations need interpreters, especially as the market for international business and politics expands. Interpreters and translators earned a 2012 BLS-reported median annual salary of $45,430, with an expected 46 percent job growth in the field through 2022.2
Asian studies graduates may also wish to apply their education to helping those within their communities. The BLS reported that social workers earned a 2012 median annual salary of $44,200, with jobs expected to increase by 19 percent through 2022.3
The future of business, culture and politics may be an international one. With this in mind, cultural literacy and perspective might prove to be an essential component of career enhancement in either the public or private sectors moving forward. The knowledge imparted by a degree in Asian studies could help prepare students to pursue a career in a more global context.
Resources:
1.http://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/political-scientists.htm
2.http://www.bls.gov/ooh/media-and-communication/interpreters-and-translators.htm
3.http://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/social-workers.htm
Sponsored Listings
Subscribe for information on earning a graduate degree
By entering my email address and clicking "Sign Up" I agree to be contacted by EducationDynamics for additional education products and services, this submission is not required to use our site. Privacy Policy.
Advertise | About | FAQs | Update Programs | Terms of Use | Legal Notice | Privacy Policy | Disclosure: What Determines Top/Best? | Do Not Sell My Personal Information (CA and NV residents)
© Gradschools 2020. All Rights Reserved.
The sources for school statistics and data is the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics and the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System unless otherwise noted.
Disclosure: EducationDynamics receives compensation for many of the featured schools on our websites (see “Sponsored School(s)” or “Sponsored Listings” or “Sponsored Results” or “Featured Graduate School(s)”. So what does this mean for you? Compensation may impact where the Sponsored Schools appear on our websites, including whether they appear as a match through our education matching services tool, the order in which they appear in a listing, and/or their ranking. Our websites do not provide, nor are they intended to provide, a comprehensive list of all schools (a) in the United States (b) located in a specific geographic area or (c) that offer a particular program of study. By providing information or agreeing to be contacted by a Sponsored School, you are in no way obligated to apply to or enroll with the school.
This is an offer for educational opportunities, not an offer for nor a guarantee of employment. Students should consult with a representative from the school they select to learn more about career opportunities in that field. Program outcomes vary according to each institution’s specific program curriculum. Specific School Disclosures. Financial aid may be available to those who qualify. The information on this page is for informational and research purposes only and is not an assurance of financial aid.