Modern East Asian Studies

Subjects: East Asian Studies;Culture

M.A. | Master of Arts

Course description

The BA degree program "Modern East Asian Studies" (BA MOAS) offers a unique blend of political science, sociology, or economics with the study of an East Asian language—Chinese, Japanese, or Korean—and regional studies. This combination sets it apart from traditional philological or cultural studies programs like Japanese Studies, Korean Studies, and Sinology, which often lack the same depth in methodological and theoretical training. In their third year, BA MOAS students immerse themselves in East Asian culture by studying at a partner university in the region. During their final two semesters, they participate in English-language courses within the master's programs offered by the Institute of East Asian Studies. The goal of this four-year program is to develop experts in East Asian economics, politics, and science. Graduates will be equipped to analyze contemporary societal and economic phenomena in East Asia using disciplinary methods and original language materials, applying their insights effectively in their professional fields.

Application Requirements

Language Requirements

Applicants must have sufficient language skills to be able to follow events in English. Students whose native language is not English must demonstrate English language skills corresponding to level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages ​​(CEFR) before starting their studies. You will also learn a language, either Chinese, Japanese or Korean. Most of you will approach these languages ​​with no prior knowledge. That's why you need a good dose of discipline because you will constantly be learning vocabulary and characters. Do not be discouraged. Do not expect the same learning progress as you can achieve in English, French or any other European language. It usually takes a little longer to get to a usable level in Chinese, Japanese or Korean, but you get there. Your language teachers know about this challenge and they also know how to meet it successfully. You will benefit from this during your year abroad at the latest and will then be able to expand your skills considerably.

Qualification Requirements

The entry requirement for the bachelor's degree program is the general university entrance qualification. Applicants who did not acquire their study qualification at a German-speaking institution must demonstrate sufficient German language skills in accordance with the regulations for the German language test for university entrance for foreign applicants (DSH) before starting their studies. Foreign applicants who are not equal to Germans through or on the basis of international treaties and who did not obtain their study qualifications at a German university must prove their ability to study in a special entrance examination. Proof of the ability to study is provided by participation in the core test as well as the study field-specific module of the study ability test for foreign students (TestAS) relevant to the chosen course of study. A standard score of at least 100 must be demonstrated in the core test and in the field-specific module.

Document Requirements

Proof of English language proficiency, e.g. TOEFL, IELTS, CET, etc. Complete and up-to-date CV showing your professional experience and education Copy of BA degree certificate, including a transcript of grades showing an average grade of 2.5 or better, based on the German grading system, and also including a transcript of any semesters spent abroad (Please use the so-called Bavarian Formular to calculate your CGPA in the German grading system. The best possible grade in Germany is 1.0, the minimum passing grade is 4.0). Statement of purpose: Please explain a) the disciplinary training and skills you have acquired so far at university and how do they fit into our MA program in terms of your intended focus (political science, sociology, or economics); b) your motivation to study our specific MA program; c) your interest in and possible experience with East Asia (500 words each for a, b, and c). APS Certificate (= Certificate of the ‘Akademische Prüfstelle’): relevant only for graduates from universities in China, Vietnamand India