BA in Asian Area Studies in Vancouver Canada | The University of British Columbia

Explore Asian cultures through the study of history, literature, religious traditions, languages, and gender dynamics. Select from varied courses including Asian Horror Cinema: National Nightmares and Specters of Trauma, The Sikhs: History, Religion and Society, and Classical Hindu, Buddhist and Jain Myths in Translation.

The Asian Studies program employs multidisciplinary methods to examine both historical and contemporary Asian societies. UBC's Department of Asian Studies emphasizes humanities-based approaches (including language, literature, history, culture, religion, philosophy, gender studies, performance, and visual arts) with particular strength in East Asia (China, Japan, Korea) and South/West Asia (India, Pakistan, and Persian-influenced regions). Ranked among the world's top programs, it offers instruction in Mandarin Chinese, Classical Chinese, Japanese, Classical Japanese, Korean, Cantonese, Punjabi, Hindi-Urdu, Sanskrit, and Persian.

Graduates develop cultural sensitivity and acquire unique Asia-focused language and intercultural skills. They become equipped to meaningfully contribute to Canada's growing connections with Asia through culturally aware and innovative approaches.

Career prospects
Asian Studies graduates gain direct experience with linguistic and cultural diversity, along with specialized knowledge of South or East Asian civilizations. These qualifications, combined with advanced research, writing, and analytical abilities, prepare students for graduate studies, government roles (Foreign Service, Canada Border Services), NGO work, translation careers, and positions in education, cultural organizations, and media institutions.