Synopsis
Interest in Asian Studies amongst scholars is a growing phenomenon as political developments in the region take a new turn and the economic strength of Asia gains influence.Objectives
With a focus on history, comparative politics, international relations and economics, the M.Sc. (Asian Studies) programme is designed to:- Help candidates interested in Asian political economy and security issues obtain the necessary analytical tools and historical perspectives to appreciate the dynamics and implications of exciting new trends;
- Help candidates develop an in-depth understanding of these dynamic changes, using approaches rooted in the disciplines of history, comparative politics, international relations, and economics;
- Acquire relevant analytical tools and historical perspectives to keep them attuned to new trends emerging on the Asian horizon. This will enable them to better appreciate and understand the dynamics and course of contemporary developments in Asia.
Relevance
On the political front, many Asian states are experiencing profound historical transitions with many potential flashpoints in this region, including the Korean Peninsula issue, the Taiwan issue, the South China Sea issue, regional arms races, resource scarcity and environmental degradation, and the rising influence of Islamic fundamentalism. At the heart of the region lies the concern associated with the rise of China as an economic and military powerhouse, the emergence of India and a more assertive Japan. These phenomenon have been arousing keen interests among key observers and policymakers globally. In view of this development, many Southeast Asian countries are now moving in new directions politically and economically. The rise of ASEAN as an international organisation plays a crucial role in shaping the relationships among major powers and in cultivating East Asian regionalism.Benefits
Under this programme, students are instantly connected and attuned to the latest developments in the region with ample opportunities to meet foreign policy makers and prominent Asian specialists from think-tanks, non-profit organisations and universities throughout the world. Students will also have the opportunity to further hone their linguistic skills in Singapore, which is home to various communities that converse in many Asian languages. The cutting-edge knowledge and skills offered in this programme will benefit students in their professional careers in the private or public sector.Content
The M.Sc. (Asian Studies) programme is empirically driven and area-centric. The programme places strong emphasis on a range of issues, including:- Political economy and security;
- Key diplomatic, economic, governmental and security issues with contemporary policy implications.
The programme is tailored to the interests of individual students who may choose to focus on a specific country or develop extensive expertise in a certain area of interest.
Students are required to take two core courses. In addition, Masters students completing a dissertation must take five extra courses (three primary and two electives), while those in the non-dissertation stream must take seven courses (five primary and two electives).