The master of arts (M.A.)
degree in East Asian languages and cultures offers advanced study of the
civilizations of China, Japan, and/or Korea. This program offers a wide and
coherent curriculum including the following humanities disciplines: literature,
visual culture, history, religion, anthropology, language, and linguistics. It is designed for students seeking to advance their knowledge as
preparation for pursuing top-ranked doctoral work in East Asian studies, or
professional careers in East Asia, in the government, nonprofit organizations,
or the culture industry. Educators, professionals, or students with a general
interest in East Asia may pursue the M.A. part time.
This program draws on the strengths of a
distinguished faculty with nearly 20 members working on various aspects of
East Asian studies. Faculty members work closely with students and tailor their
mentoring to each student's intellectual and professional needs. Our balanced
and flexible curriculum encourages students to shape their own programs while
acquiring a comprehensive knowledge of an East Asian civilization.
Research on East Asian studies at Rutgers is
supported by the East Asian Library, which has extensive collections and
resources for Chinese, Japanese, and Korean studies.
M.A. students are required
to complete 10 courses, comprising 30 credits:
Pro-seminar I: Critical
Approaches to East Asian Studies, Pro-seminar II: Research Methodology, plus 10 courses in their area of specialization and interest. Upon the completion
of all required coursework, each student will take a final examination, which
consists of a set of take-home essays based on the materials from a reading
list compiled in consultation with the student's adviser. These reading lists would
include a balance of theoretical works, and primary and secondary sources.
Students will develop
proficiency in their primary East Asian language. Proficiency is determined by
the ability to use effectively primary sources in the original language
(typically gained through three years of training, or the equivalent, in the
targeted language).
