Korean Studies with Japanese BA
2025-26 entryLearn Korean and Japanese language from scratch, complemented by modules about Korean society such as history, culture or politics. You'll also spend part of your degree studying in Korea, immersing yourself in Korean society.
Key details
- A Levels ABB
Other entry requirements - UCAS code T4T2
- 4 years / Full-time
- September start
- Find out the course fee
- Dual honours
- Foreign language study
- Study abroad
Explore this course:
Course description
Why study this course?
Ranked 1st in the National Student Survey (NSS) results 2023 across Asian studies in the UK, our staff are UK leaders in supporting your studies and career goals.
Our new Centre for Korean Studies promotes a thriving research culture, with unparalleled opportunities to tap into national and international experiences.
Apply your rapidly developing language skills in the real world, refine your critical understanding – and experience a life-changing trip.
Right from the start, you’ll be encouraged to develop and track the skills you’ll need to turn your degree into a career.
Develop a critical understanding of Korea, its history and growing influence on the world, while gaining advanced Korean and Japanese language skills.
You’ll be immersed in East Asian culture, language and society on this four-year course, ready for a huge range of careers. You'll learn Korean and Japanese language from scratch with our expert language teams, complemented by modules exploring Korean politics, history, music and society. You’ll have the opportunity to explore Japanese and East Asian society in more detail through optional modules in the later years of your degree, tailoring your degree to what interests you.
You’ll spend a year at one of our partner universities in South Korea, putting what you've learned into practice and gaining life-changing experience abroad.
In your final year you’ll refine your language skills while deepening your understanding through research-led modules. You also have the option to complete a dissertation project of your choice, supervised by world-leading researchers.
Throughout your time with us, you’ll be supported by our experienced teaching staff in our newly formed Centre for Korean Studies.
Study with us, and you’ll develop an unparalleled knowledge of your subject, gain valuable lived experience, and contribute to world-leading research in the field.
Dual and combined honours degrees
Modules
UCAS code: T4T2
Years: 2022, 2023, 2024
In your first year you will begin your language learning by focusing on reading, writing, listening and speaking, working with qualified native-speaker language teachers, using specially designed course material.
Through our Exploring East Asia module you will be provided with essential knowledge of the East Asia region, its history, politics, geography and culture. This will give you a greater understanding of Korea and Japan, what shaped them and how they may develop in the future.
Core modules:
- Exploring East Asia
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This module introduces students to the study of modern East Asia. Beginning by encouraging consideration of what the subject of East Asian Studies is, it then introduces the following key topics: East Asian Geography and Environment, History, Culture and Media, Economics and Business, and Political Relations. In parallel with this content, the module also introduces core academic skills as follows: independent, lecture and seminar study; reflective practice; critical information, digital and visual literacy; evidence and argument in academic writing, and appropriate examination techniques. These two elements provide a firm foundation of knowledge and abilities for higher level study.
20 credits - Korean Language 1A
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This module is focusing on receptive activities and written productive activities in Korean language. It aims to enable students to acquire basic competence in grammar, reading, writing and translation both from and into Korean. Every week carefully designed grammar structures and vocabulary will be introduced so that students will be able to do something practical in Korean. The target level at the end of this level is roughly equivalent to TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) beginners level/L1 or CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) A1.
20 credits - Korean Language 1B
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This module is focusing on interactive activities in Korean. It aims to enable students to acquire basic competence in speaking and listening skills. Every week carefully designed grammar structures and vocabulary will be introduced so that students will be able to communicate in Korean through a variety of activities. The target level at the end of this level is roughly equivalent to TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) beginners level/L1 or CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) A1.
10 credits - Japanese for Non-Specialists 1
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This module aims to enable students with no prior knowledge of Japanese to acquire basic practical language skills, in listening, reading, speaking and writing. Japanese scripts will be introduced at the start and used throughout. On successful completion of the module students will; have a vocabulary of about 300 words related to daily life, understand simple sentences and classroom expressions related to daily activities, be able to obtain specific information from written and audio materials, be able to hold simple conversations; and be able to write about the topics covered in class in simple sentences or forms.
10 credits - Korean Language 2A
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This module is focusing on receptive activities and written productive activities in Korean language. This module builds on the achievement of EAS1043 and introduces further grammatical structures of the Korean language with a view to further developing reading, writing and translation skills. Every week carefully designed grammar structures and vocabulary will be introduced so that students will be able to do something practical in Korean. At the end of this level students should complete the beginner's level which is roughly equivalent to TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) upper beginners level/L2 or CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) A2.
20 credits - Korean Language 2B
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This module is focusing on interactive activities in Korean. This module is built on the achievement of EAS1044 and develop speaking and listening skills further to provide the grounding necessary for intermediate study. Every week carefully designed grammar structures and vocabulary will be introduced so that students will be able to communicate in Korean through a variety of activities. At the end of this level students should complete the beginner's level which is roughly equivalent to TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) upper beginners level/L2 or CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) A2.
10 credits - Japanese for Non-Specialists 2
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This module aims to enable students with some elementary knowledge of Japanese to acquire further practical language skills, in listening, reading, speaking and writing. On successful completion of the module students will; have a further vocabulary of about 400 words related to daily life; understand and use the written forms of all the introduced core grammar patterns; and understand selected simple spoken and written structures and be able to use them as spoken and written communication. .
10 credits
Approved modules:
You will take one of the following Korea focused modules. Each module has a humanities or social sciences focus and will look at a core text, which has played a significant role in developing an intricate, understanding of Korea. The content of these modules change regularly to ensure they are topical and make the best use of our staff expertise.
- History and Culture in Korea
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This module explores what it means to study Korea at university level, and considers how 'area studies' research on Korea fits within disciplines such as history and cultural studies. We will consider how histories and cultural understandings of Korea are built with the following in mind: how researchers use primary evidence such as texts, documents and/or images to understand social change; and how to navigate key debates in a field and evaluate competing arguments. You will finish this module with a deeper understanding of our core topic and the disciplinary approaches that frame it, and a foundation in critical research and writing skills that you can apply and develop in further study. You will develop a range of ways to express this understanding via short discussion board posts and video format, plus a written essay. We will work on a combination of new and established research to explore one core topic.
20 credits - Politics, Economy and Society in Korea
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.This module explores what it means to study Korea at university level, and considers how 'area studies' research on Korea fits within disciplines such as political economy, international relations, anthropology, sociology and geography. We will work on a combination of new and established research to explore core topics in contemporary Korea: including how Korean society has changed; how researchers use different conceptual frameworks and types of primary evidence to understand change and its wider impact; and, how to use the different types of work published in the field and evaluate competing arguments in key debates. You will finish this module with a deeper understanding of our core topic and the disciplinary approaches that frame it, and a foundation in critical research and writing skills that you can apply and develop in further study. We will work on a combination of new and established research to explore one core topic
20 credits
In your second year you will have the opportunity to develop your understanding of Korea and Japan through your optional modules, exploring disciplines such as history, politics or culture in more detail. Your modules will help you develop discipline specific skills which may include
- Analysing policy and writing policy briefs
- Critiquing visual art such as film
- Forming and debating a coherent argument
- reviewing historical texts
In your Korean language classes you will build on what you have learnt in your first year and focus on language which will help you on your year abroad. In Japanese language classes you will build your vocabulary to include roughly 400 words and furhter develop your grammer and spoken Japanese.
Core modules:
- Korean Language 3A
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This module is focusing on receptive activities and written productive activities in Korean language at lower intermediate level. This module acts as a transition between the teacher-centred learning required for the acquisition of basic language skills, and the autonomous and self-directed learning required to progress at intermediate and advanced levels. Translation and functional reading skills are extended, with texts including annotated topical materials. Techniques for tackling unseen materials are developed and grammar knowledge is consolidated and expanded. Practical knowledge of roughly 150 Chinese characters is introduced. Students develop skills needed to make best use of the Year Abroad programme.
20 credits - Korean Language 3B
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This module is focusing on interactive activities in Korean language at lower intermediate level. Every week students are made aware of and given the opportunity to practise spoken applications of specific themes, which is shared with the grammar and writing components. Students develop skills needed to make best use of the Year Abroad programme.
10 credits - Japanese for Non-Specialists 3
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This module aims to enable students with some elementary knowledge of Japanese to acquire further practical language skills, in listening, reading, speaking and writing. On successful completion of the module students will; have a further vocabulary of about 400 words related to daily activities; understand and use the written forms of all the introduced core grammar patterns;and understand selected simple spoken and written structures and be able to use them as spoken and written communication.
10 credits - Korean Language 4A
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This module is focusing on receptive and written productive activities in Korean language at mid-intermediate level. This module continues to act as a transition towards the autonomous and self-directed learning required to progress at intermediate and advanced levels. Grammar knowledge is consolidated and expanded and practical knowledge of Hanja is expanded. Further functional reading skills and precise Korean-English translation skills are introduced. The use of written Korean appropriate to a variety of social contexts (i.e. life in Korea) is developed. The target level at the end of the level is roughly equivalent to TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) L4 or CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) B2.
20 credits - Korean Language 4B
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This module is focusing on oral and aural activities in Korean language at intermediate level. Every week students are made aware of and given the opportunity to practise spoken applications of specific themes, which is shared with the grammar and writing components. Students are made aware of and given the opportunity to practice spoken applications of specific situations. The target level at the end of this level is roughly equivalent to TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) L4 or CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) B2.
10 credits - Japanese for Non-Specialists 4
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This module aims to enable students with some elementary knowledge of Japanese to acquire further practical language skills, in listening, reading, speaking and writing. On successful completion of the module students will; have a further vocabulary of about 400 words related to daily activities; understand and use the written forms of all the introduced core grammar patterns;and understand selected simple spoken and written structures and be able to use them as spoken and written communication.
10 credits
Approved Modules:
You will take one of the following modules
- Understanding Contemporary North Korea
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What does it mean to 'understand' North Korea, and what are the potential implications of this understanding, academically and professionally? This module explores these questions through the disciplines of international relations, history, media studies and anthropology, as we cover a range of topics in the field of contemporary North Korea. These topics include post-colonialism, founding myths, nationalism, identity, ideology, human rights, international relations, and security, and covers key events and trends from the mid-1900s to the present day. The module provides a foundation for students to critically analyse how the North Korean state and society are presented to us via a variety of voices, as well as how we might respond in any capacity to engage with North Korean affairs. Lectures, instructional videos and assigned readings will provide background, case studies and theoretical approaches helpful for developing a nuanced understanding of the topics covered. Seminar classwork and the assessed portfolio will be used to learn and practice skills integral to both academic and professional activities commonly associated with studies of contemporary politics and society.
20 credits - Contemporary Korean Society
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Since the end of World War II, South Korea has undergone rapid modernisation and radical social transformations that have created both opportunities and challenges. Through the disciplines of history, political science, social science and anthropology, this module examines major social, political, and cultural events and issues in contemporary Korea, including the developmental state, democratisation, gender, migration and modernity, contemporary social movements and Korea's place in the global community. This module aims to contribute to the development of students' capacity to go beyond observing and describing phenomena they may encounter when engaging with Korea, towards exercising an informed and nuanced understanding of the underlying forces that shape Korean politics, culture, business and society today. Classes are in the format of lectures, instructional videos and readings, followed by a series of seminars during which students will engage in research sessions and skills-focused tasks to discuss the experiences of one of Asia's most dynamic nations. The module is assessed with a portfolio of tasks designed to practice skills and deploy knowledge developed through engagement with the module's content and activities.
20 credits - History of Korean Popular Music
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This module examines the social history of (South) Korea from the 1930s to the dawn of the millennium through the lens of popular music. The module starts with songs on gramophone records made during the Japanese colonial period and ends with Psy's 'Gangnam Style,' which achieved global popularity while satirising urban lifestyle in Seoul. Each week, students and the module lead perform a close analysis of the selected song(s), informed by relevant socio-historical contexts such as Japanese colonialism, national division, the Cold War, urban migration, state censorship, democratisation, and globalization. Secondarily, the module introduces students to issues that are relevant to the study of popular music in any national or transnational context.
20 credits
Approved Modules:
Plus one from the list below
- Contemporary Japanese Society
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This module discusses key factors shaping contemporary Japanese society. Our particular focus will be on the last twenty years as post-Bubble Japan has entered a period of economic decline, prompting a series of debates about the effects of this change on society. Weekly lectures provide analysis and explanation of each week's theme, with a focus on cutting-edge scholarship from the fields of history, anthropology, media studies, gender studies, and cultural studies.
20 credits - Environment and Development of the Japanese Islands
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This module takes geographical, ecological, socio-cultural and political-economic perspectives in charting the emergence of Japan as the world's first non-Western developed country. Beginning with Japan's geological formation in pre-history and ending with a speculative enquiry into the state of Japan in 2100, the module assesses the human and ecological consequences of Japan's development within the country's Asian, Pacific, and global contexts.
20 credits - Modern Japanese History
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This module will explore key themes in the modern history of Japan from the mid-nineteenth to the late twentieth century, while developing core skills in reading primary sources and historical analysis. Broad themes include identity and nation-building, social and economic change, war and its practical and cultural legacies. Key sub-disciplinary approaches will be based in social and cultural history, with some excursions into other historiographical approaches. It will be delivered through weekly lectures, and seminars structured around developing primary source analysis skills and relating these to appropriate secondary literature.
20 credits - Experiencing 'Japan' through Literary Texts
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This module enables students to understand the key debates and issues in Japanese culture and society as related in literature, from pre-modern to contemporary times. Taking a chronological and thematic perspective, the module engages with critical approaches to literature and its interpretation, and through these encourages students to develop and acquire critical thinking about concepts of Japan and Japaneseness.
20 credits
Core module:
- Korea Year Abroad
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This year abroad programme in Korea is designed to equip students with more advanced language skills, as well as to immerse them in Korean culture, enabling them to take part in a range of structured and informal learning experiences to develop their familiarity with the Korean social, cultural and physical environments. On completion of the module they will have acquired facility in operating with confidence with a Korean language environment, and taken part in a range of structured and informal learning experiences to develop their familiarity with the Korean social, cultural and physical environments. Both of these elements are essential for progression to Level 3.
120 credits
Where extenuating circumstances prevent a cohort, or a large portion of a cohort, from completing a complete academic year abroad, the School of East Asian Studies will provide alternative arrangements for students to meet the language learning outcomes.
In your final year you will focus on developing your research skills through specially designed research focused modules.
In your Korean language classes you will be introduced to advanced topics such as translation, interpretation and workplace language skills such as CV writing and presenting.
In Japanese language classes you will further develop your oral competence in spoken practice through role-plays and discussion activities, focusing on clear and appropriate communication
Core Modules:
- Korean Language 5
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This module is focusing on receptive activities and written productive activities in Korean language at the intermediate high level consolidating the knowledge learned during Korea Year Abroad. This module acts as a transition between the teacher-centred learning required for the acquisition of basic and intermediate language skills, and the autonomous and self-directed learning required at high advanced levels. Translation and functional reading skills are extended, with texts including annotated topical materials. Techniques for tackling unseen materials are developed and advanced grammar is consolidated and expanded. Practical knowledge of roughly 250 Chinese characters is introduced. The target level at the end of this level is roughly equivalent to TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) intermediate high level/L4 or CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) B2.
20 credits - Japanese for Non- Specialists 5
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The module follows on from and consolidates the skills acquired in Japanese for Non-Specialists 4 and aims to acquire further practical language skills, in listening, reading, speaking and writing. New grammatical patterns and a broader range of vocabulary and kanji are introduced and practised. Students will further develop their oral competence in spoken practice through role-plays and discussion activities, focusing on clear and appropriate communication.
10 credits - Korean Language 6
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This module builds on skills acquired in Korean Language 5. It is divided into four sections, each one focussing on a key linguistic skill which is demanded of adult foreign users of the language. These skills are: translation into English; summarisation of information bearing texts; writing in Korean with a focus on short reports and the interpretation of data; and speaking, with a focus on group and individual presentations. Group work, with students determining their own materials for study, is a key element of the module, enabling students to develop as independent learners. The target level at the end of this level is roughly equivalent to TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) advanced high level/L6 or CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) C1+.
20 credits - Japanese for Non- Specialists 6
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The module follows on from and consolidates the skills acquired in Japanese for Non-Specialists 5 and aims to acquire further practical language skills, in listening, reading, speaking and writing. New grammatical patterns and a broader range of vocabulary and kanji are introduced and practised. Students will further develop their oral competence in spoken practice through role-plays and discussion activities, focusing on clear and appropriate communication.
10 credits
Approved Modules:
You will take one of the following modules.
- Researching Korea 1
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This unit explores some of the key debates and latest empirical developments in a specific field of research currently undertaken by a member of SEAS staff in Korean Studies. It enables students to understand how research questions are formulated and answered by exploring the member of staff's disciplinary focus, the range of theoretical approaches employed, and the various methodologies available in researching this field.
20 credits - Researching Korea 2
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This unit explores some of the key debates and latest empirical developments in a specific field of research currently undertaken by a member of SEAS staff in Korean Studies. It enables students to understand how research questions are formulated and answered by exploring the member of staff's disciplinary focus, the range of theoretical approaches employed, and the various methodologies available in researching this field.
20 credits
Approved Modules:
You will take one of the following modules.
- Researching Japan 1
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This module, subtitled “Stardom, Celebrity, and Politics in Japan”, investigates the operations of persona in the Japanese social and political sphere. Star, celebrity, and political persona is understood as a shifting object, informed by the socio-political circumstances of the historical period in which the transmitting persona operates.The goal of this research module is to establish a method for tracing and accounting for the operations of constructed public persona on our understanding of Japan.
20 credits - Researching Japan 2
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This unit explores some of the key debates and latest empirical developments in a specific field of research currently undertaken by a member of SEAS staff in Japanese Studies. It enables students to understand how research questions are formulated and answered by exploring the member of staff's disciplinary focus, the range of theoretical approaches employed, and the various methodologies available in researching this field.
20 credits - Korea Research Project 2
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In this module, you will work as part of a small team within a scenario set by a SEAS staff member that relates to his/her field of research as explored in EAS3043. You will answer a research question by choosing an appropriate methodology, allocating specific tasks within your team, organising your time and reflecting on the research process both individually and collectively. Specific projects will include appropriate research training provided by the module organiser and/or 301. At the end of the module you will produce a research output and display it as part of a programme-wide and School-wide event to specialised/non-specialised audiences.
20 credits - Korea Research Project 1
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In this module, you will work as part of a small team within a scenario set by a SEAS staff member that relates to his/her field of research as explored in EAS3043. You will answer a research question by choosing an appropriate methodology, allocating specific tasks within your team, organising your time and reflecting on the research process both individually and collectively. Specific projects will include appropriate research training provided by the module organiser and/or 301. At the end of the module you will produce a research output and display it as part of a programme-wide and School-wide event to specialised/non-specialised audiences.
20 credits - Japan Research Project 1
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In this semester, we will apply the understanding developed in EAS3031 Researching Japan 1 to a research project on stardom, celebrity, and politics in Japan. You will answer a research question of your own choice by choosing an appropriate methodology, organising your time and reflecting on the research process both individually and collectively. At the end of the module you will produce a research output and display it as part of a programme-wide and School-wide event to specialised/non-specialised audiences. The research outputs and bibliographies will be published in an online exhibition space dedicated to Level 3 Researching Projects at SEAS.
20 credits - Japan Research Project 2
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In this module, you will work as part of a small team within a scenario set by a SEAS staff member that relates to his/her field of research as explored in EAS3033. You will answer a research question by choosing an appropriate methodology, allocating specific tasks within your team, organising your time and reflecting on the research process both individually and collectively. Specific projects will include appropriate research training provided by the module organiser and/or 301. At the end of the module you will produce a research output and display it as part of a programme-wide and School-wide event to specialised/non-specialised audiences.
20 credits - East Asian Dissertation
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The East Asian dissertation requires that students produce an extended and focused study of a subject of their own choice, within the scope of their degree programme, and allows students to refine and their independent research, analytical and writing skills. The unit is delivered through a combination of group meetings in lecture or seminar format and through individual supervision.
20 credits
The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it's up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research; funding changes; professional accreditation requirements; student or employer feedback; outcomes of reviews; and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we'll consult and inform students in good time and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.
Learning and assessment
Learning
You will undertake intensive Korean language training in small group classes making use of specially designed learning materials. To complement your language learning and ensure you gain a comprehensive understand of Korea, you will also learn about Korean culture and society through, what we call, studies modules which are taught via lectures, seminars and workshops.
You will get the chance to learn about Korean politics, history, media and popular culture among other topics that complement the current expertise and research interests of our staff.
You will also take Japanese language classes with native speaking tutors at a less intense pace to your Korean language study and have the opportunity to take some Japanese culture and society modules in the second and final year.
The School of East Asian Studies (SEAS) has over 50 years' experience of researching contemporary East Asia and pioneering new methods for teaching East Asian languages.
SEAS staff, many of whom are fluent in at least one East Asian language, are internationally renowned specialists in East Asia, and bring their expertise in various fields such as history, culture and politics, to the wide range of courses on offer.
Right from the start, you'll be working with expert researchers and native speakers, who will help you to reach your potential.
Assessment
We use a range of assessment methods during your course. In the language programme you will be given regular homework assignments and take exams at the end of each semester. You will be assessed on the core skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing.
Our assessment methods vary across our studies modules and could include taking exams, developing a portfolio, writing essays, taking part in group projects and presentations.
Programme specification
This tells you the aims and learning outcomes of this course and how these will be achieved and assessed.
Entry requirements
With Access Sheffield, you could qualify for additional consideration or an alternative offer - find out if you're eligible.
The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
ABB
- A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification
- BBB + B in a relevant EPQ
- International Baccalaureate
- 33
- BTEC Extended Diploma
- DDD in a relevant subject
- BTEC Diploma
- DD + B at A Level
- Scottish Highers
- AAABB
- Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels
- B + AB
- Access to HE Diploma
- Award of Access to HE Diploma, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 30 at Distinction and 15 at Merit
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No prior knowledge of Korean or Japanese is required (up to GCSE Japanese is acceptable)
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Evidence of interest in East Asia (China, Japan, Korea) demonstrated through the personal statement is also required
The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
BBB
- A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification
- BBB + B in a relevant EPQ
- International Baccalaureate
- 32
- BTEC Extended Diploma
- DDM in a relevant subject
- BTEC Diploma
- DD + B at A Level
- Scottish Highers
- AABBB
- Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels
- B + BB
- Access to HE Diploma
- Award of Access to HE Diploma, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 24 at Distinction and 21 at Merit
-
No prior knowledge of Korean or Japanese is required (up to GCSE Japanese is acceptable)
-
Evidence of interest in East Asia (China, Japan, Korea) demonstrated through the personal statement is also required
You must demonstrate that your English is good enough for you to successfully complete your course. For this course we require: GCSE English Language at grade 4/C; IELTS grade of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component; or an alternative acceptable English language qualification
Equivalent English language qualifications
Visa and immigration requirements
Other qualifications | UK and EU/international
If you have any questions about entry requirements, please contact the school/department.
Graduate careers
School of East Asian Studies
Studying China, Japan or Korea prepares you for a career in the world's most dynamic region. There are also many opportunities across Europe for people with skills in Asian languages and cultures.
Our graduates work in government and diplomacy, media and the arts, non-government organisations and international business - in professions as diverse as management consultancy, accountancy, marketing, research, language teaching and translation.
School of East Asian Studies
in teaching and researching East Asia
Our courses are designed to immerse you in the languages and cultures of East Asian countries. You will be taught by native speakers in Chinese, Japanese and Korean in regular small group classes using custom-made course material.
Our courses are based on world-leading research and taught by experts whose work influences policy and informs public debate. Most of our staff publish in their specialist field and many of them have written books for major publishers such as Oxford University Press, Routledge and Macmillan.
The School of East Asian Studies is located in the Jessop West building, right in the heart of campus and close to the University of Sheffield tram stop. You'll visit the department to meet with your tutors and gain any support you need. Your lectures, seminars and language classes will take place in various locations across the University of Sheffield campus.
Facilities
School of East Asian StudiesUniversity rankings
Number one in the Russell Group
National Student Survey 2024 (based on aggregate responses)
92 per cent of our research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent
Research Excellence Framework 2021
University of the Year and best for Student Life
Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2024
Number one Students' Union in the UK
Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2024, 2023, 2022, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017
Number one for Students' Union
StudentCrowd 2024 University Awards
A top 20 university targeted by employers
The Graduate Market in 2023, High Fliers report
A top-100 university: 12th in the UK and 98th in the world
Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025
Student profiles
Fees and funding
Fees
Additional costs
The annual fee for your course includes a number of items in addition to your tuition. If an item or activity is classed as a compulsory element for your course, it will normally be included in your tuition fee. There are also other costs which you may need to consider.
Funding your study
Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for a bursary, scholarship or loan to help fund your study and enhance your learning experience.
Use our Student Funding Calculator to work out what you’re eligible for.
Additional funding
Year abroad
As part of this degree you'll spend a year studying in Seoul, South Korea at one of our six partner institutions including Yonsei University and Sungkyunkwan University.
All of our partner universities in Seoul are high quality institutions which will provide you with the same, high level of teaching and support that is available in Sheffield.
During your year in Korea you'll immerse yourself in this fascinating country. You'll continue to take intensive Korean language courses as well as choosing from a range of other modules.
Visit
University open days
We host five open days each year, usually in June, July, September, October and November. You can talk to staff and students, tour the campus and see inside the accommodation.
Subject tasters
If you’re considering your post-16 options, our interactive subject tasters are for you. There are a wide range of subjects to choose from and you can attend sessions online or on campus.
Offer holder days
If you've received an offer to study with us, we'll invite you to one of our offer holder days, which take place between February and April. These open days have a strong department focus and give you the chance to really explore student life here, even if you've visited us before.
Campus tours
Our weekly guided tours show you what Sheffield has to offer - both on campus and beyond. You can extend your visit with tours of our city, accommodation or sport facilities.
Apply
Contact us
- Telephone
- +44 114 222 8400
- eastasianstudies-admissions@sheffield.ac.uk
The awarding body for this course is the University of Sheffield.
Recognition of professional qualifications: from 1 January 2021, in order to have any UK professional qualifications recognised for work in an EU country across a number of regulated and other professions you need to apply to the host country for recognition. Read information from the UK government and the EU Regulated Professions Database.
Any supervisors and research areas listed are indicative and may change before the start of the course.