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This academic program is tailored to meet the specific requirements of students seeking a more language-focused approach to studying East Asian history.
For decades, the HEAL program has stood as one of the top doctoral training initiatives in East Asian history across the United States. Its roots trace back to 1941 when John King Fairbank spearheaded the creation of a 'Standing Committee of the Faculty on the Joint Degree of Ph.D. in History and Far Eastern Languages' (renamed History and East Asian Languages in 1972). The original rationale emphasized that scholars of East Asian history must achieve proficiency in the region's primary research languages, necessitating additional time for preparation, research, and dissertation work. Since its establishment in 1941, the program has conferred over 200 HEAL PhDs. Notable alumni include current Harvard faculty members and distinguished scholars specializing in East Asian studies at institutions worldwide.
For those seeking the PhD in East Asian languages and civilizations, the admissions committee gives strong preference to applicants who achieved distinction in their undergraduate or graduate work, and who are adequately prepared to meet the language requirements of the doctorate. The PhD in History and East Asian Languages is designed to accommodate the needs of students who desire a more language-intensive program of study of East Asian history. Candidates are expected to have demonstrated special aptitude and competence for advanced work in East Asian history. Admission will be based primarily on distinction in undergraduate or graduate work, including evidence of high achievement in history or related fields, and evidence of adequate preparation in one of the East Asian languages.
Applicants must receive a minimum score of 80 for the TOEFL, and it is not common for applicants to be admitted with TOEFL scores below 90. The minimum IELTS Academic score is 6.5. Some programs may require higher scores. Application Deadline: Dec 15.