Program Page
Program Duration

1 Year

Program Credit

48 Units

Program Delivery In Person

In person

Asia sits at the heart of Australia’s economic, political, cultural and security landscape. Understanding this dynamic and diverse region is essential for anyone seeking to make an impact in government, international relations, business, media, development or research.

The Master of Asian Studies at The Australian National University gives you the knowledge, tools, and language skills to engage with Asia in meaningful and informed ways. Taught by world-leading scholars, the program draws on the unparalleled expertise in Asian languages, cultures, societies, and politics at the University.

You’ll learn to think critically and collaboratively across disciplines, build your own academic pathway, and connect theory with practice through opportunities for in-country study, research projects, and internships.

The learning experience

Field trips

The Master of Asian Studies is designed to immerse you in the ideas, histories, politics and languages that shape Asia today. You’ll start with broad, interdisciplinary courses that build a strong foundation in regional perspectives and multiple methods, then tailor your learning through electives in areas like history, linguistics, law, culture, and international relations.

You'll develop the skills to engage directly with people in the region, with access to 16 language programs and opportunities for in-country study. You’ll also gain hands-on experience through field schools, research projects, and internships that connect classroom learning with real-world contexts.

This flexible and immersive approach ensures you graduate with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to engage with Asia in meaningful and impactful ways.

View the complete course list.

As unprecedented changes disrupt the global nature of work, graduates of the Master of Asian Studies are well-prepared to adapt and thrive. This multidisciplinary degree equips graduates with deep area expertise and flexible, collaborative skillsets that are highly valued in governments, businesses, international organisations, advocacy, media, education and research.

Potential career paths include:

  • Diplomatic and foreign affairs roles
  • International development and NGOs
  • Policy analysis and public service
  • Cultural and language education
  • Journalism and international media
  • Healthcare and wellbeing
  • Research and academia

If you have further questions about this program, please contact us.