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East Asian Studies, MRes, University of Leeds

the United Kingdom

University of Leeds

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The award How you will study Study duration Course start Domestic course fees International course fees
MResFull-time1 yearSeptemberGBP 8000 totalGBP 18000 total

About East Asian Studies, MRes - at University of Leeds

If you're a native speaker or you have substantial training in Chinese, Japanese or Thai, this programme will prepare you for a career in research with an area specialism.

Half of the programme will give you a solid foundation in East Asian studies and research methodologies, equipping you with a range of subject knowledge, consolidating your language skills and preparing you to conduct independent, theory-driven research. In the other half, you'll apply all of this to your own research project comprising 50% of the MRes, supervised by a member/members of the Faculty.

You'll study in a stimulating research environment with plenty of opportunities to attend research events and conferences, not just within East Asian Studies but also at School and University level.

Our tutors are conducting world-class research in diverse fields across East Asian Studies, and you'll benefit from teaching that's informed by their own work. It's a great opportunity to prepare for a career in academic or professional research.

By choosing to study East Asian Studies at Leeds you will be joining a leading centre for research in the region, with over 50 years of history. In addition to the academic strengths that we have accrued over this time, we have developed an extensive and active international network of alumni. Leeds is also home to very substantial and world-renowned specialist library collections.

  • Course content

    The programme is divided in half, with 50% advanced research training and 50% independent research on a specialist topic of your choice.

    Advanced methodological training will cover the key stages of the research process and equip you to conduct independent research informed by a sound theoretical understanding. You'll also practice skills such as writing abstracts, papers and proposals as well as verbal presentations and group discussions, preparing you to present and share your research.

    The remainder of the programme will be spent working with a supervisor in the faculty on your own research project, focusing on a topic that interests you perhaps laying the foundations for future academic research.

    Course structure

    These are typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.

    Year 1

    Compulsory modules

    • Principles and Practices of Research 30 credits
    • Dissertation 90 credits

    Optional modules

    • Chinese Politics 15 credits
    • China's Development 15 credits
    • China and the Developing World 15 credits
    • Japan in the Discourse of International Development 15 credits
    • Japan: Politics and International Relations 15 credits
    • Political Economy of the Pacific Rim 15 credits
    • International Politics of the Asia Pacific Region 15 credits
    • Modern Documentary Chinese: Politics and Law 15 credits
    • Post-Cultural Revolution Chinese Literature 15 credits
    • Contemporary Chinese Literature 15 credits
    • Chinese Literature 1912 - 1949 15 credits
    • Japanese 3A: Written Communication Skills 30 credits
    • Advanced Japanese in Context 1: Politics and International Relations 15 credits
    • Advanced Japanese in Context 4: Literature 15 credits
    • Advanced Japanese in Context 5: Japanese Diplomacy and Foreign Policy in Historical Context 15 credits
    • Advanced Japanese in Context 6: Japanese Religion and Culture in Historical Context 15 credits
    • Advanced Japanese in Context: Culture and Identity 15 credits
    • Specialised Readings 15 credits
    • The Rise of China 30 credits
    • Show more

    For more information on typical modules, read East Asian Studies MRes in the course catalogue

    Learning and teaching

    We use a range of teaching and learning methods such as lectures and seminars. You'll be expected to participate fully in these by giving presentations and conducting your own research and reading before taught sessions. Of course, independent research is vital to this programme, allowing you to develop your skills and explore your own ideas and interests.

    Assessment

    You'll also experience a range of assessment methods, depending on the taught modules you choose. These may include exams and essays as well as presentations, literature reviews, project work and in-course assessment among others. Language modules may also include different forms of assessment such as translation tests. Your dissertation will be assessed based on the final, submitted piece of work.

  • Applying, fees and funding

    Entry requirements

    A bachelor degree with a 2:1 (hons) in a relevant subject.

    We will consider other relevant qualifications or work experience in exceptional circumstances.

    International qualifications

    We accept a range of international equivalent qualifications. For more information please contact the School of Languages, Cultures and Societies admissions team.

    English language requirements

    IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

    Improve your English

    If English is not your first language, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course before you begin your studies. This can help if you:

    • don't meet the English language requirements for your course or
    • want to improve your understanding of academic language and practices in your area of study.

    Our pre-sessional courses are designed with a progression route to the degree programme and are tailored to the subject area. For information and entry requirements, read Language for Arts and Humanities (6 weeks) and Language for Social Science and Arts: Arts and Humanities (10 weeks).

    How to apply

    Application deadlines

    UK/EU students: 4 September 2018

    International students: 28 August 2018

    It can take between four and six weeks to assess an application, so we advise you to apply as early as possible. Application deadlines for many scholarships are also much earlier than the application deadline, and you may need to leave time for arrangements such as visa applications or moving to Leeds.
    • Apply

    This link takes you to information on applying for taught programmes and to the University's online application system.
     
    If you're unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

    Documents and information you'll need

    • Transcripts of your degree and other relevant qualifications, or a partial transcript if you're still studying
    • We do not generally request references, unless further information is required to support the assessment of your application
    • Evidence of your English language qualifications if English isn't your first language
    • A personal statement of around 500 words explaining why you want to study this programme, how it will benefit your career and why you want to study the programme at Leeds in particular

    Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

    Fees

    UK/EU: £8,000 (total)

    International: £18,000 (total)

    Read more about paying fees and charges.

    For fees information for international taught postgraduate students, read Masters fees.

    Additional cost information

    There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more about additional costs

    Scholarships and financial support

    If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There may be help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government.  Find out more at Masters funding overview.

  • Career opportunities

    The emphasis on independent research and advanced methodological training on this programme means it offers ideal preparation for PhD study, or professional research roles in government, media, business or the charity and voluntary sectors.

    You'll also gain important skills such as analysis, problem-solving, oral and written communication as well as cultural awareness, all of which are valuable in a wide range of careers in different sectors.

    Careers support

    We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That's one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.

    The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more at the Careers website.

  • Related courses

    Chinese and Management MA
    East Asian Cultures and Societies MA
    East Asian Cultures and Societies (Language Pathway) MA
  • Entry requirements

    A bachelor degree with a 2:1 (hons) in a relevant subject.

    Language requirements
    IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component

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