MA Asian Studies

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: For postgraduate programs, applicants typically require a minimum academic score of 70% or above in their previous studies.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall score of 6.5 or 7.0, with no individual band below 6.0.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 90, with specific section requirements: Listening 20, Reading 19, Speaking 21, Writing 20.
• PTE: Overall score of 63, with no section below 59.
• DET: Overall score of 120, with a minimum of 110.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It's important to note that entry requirements can vary by program and may change over time. Additionally, some programs may have additional requirements, such as interviews, portfolios, or work experience.

University College Cork (UCC) offers various scholarships and financial aid options to support international students in their academic pursuits. These scholarships are aimed at assisting students with tuition fees, living expenses, and other educational costs. 

International Merit-Based Scholarships: UCC provides merit-based scholarships for high-achieving international students entering undergraduate or postgraduate programs. These scholarships recognize academic excellence and may cover partial tuition fees or provide stipends.

Government and External Scholarships: International students may also be eligible for scholarships offered by their home governments, non-governmental organizations, or external funding bodies. UCC assists students by providing information and support in applying for these external scholarship opportunities.

Research Scholarships and Grants: For postgraduate research students, UCC offers various grants and scholarships to support research endeavors. These scholarships often cover tuition fees and provide additional stipends for living expenses.

Sports Scholarships: UCC recognizes talented athletes and offers sports scholarships to support their academic and athletic pursuits. These scholarships assist students in balancing their sports with their studies.

Faculty-Specific Scholarships: Certain faculties or departments within UCC offer scholarships tailored to specific academic disciplines. These scholarships aim to attract exceptional students to particular programs and fields of study.

Need-Based Financial Aid: The university understands the financial challenges international students might face and offers need-based financial aid programs to assist students who demonstrate financial need.

Graduates of the MA in Asian Studies program at University College Cork (UCC) possess a profound understanding of Asia's cultures, languages, histories, and geopolitical landscapes, enabling them to pursue diverse career opportunities in various sectors. 

1. Diplomacy and International Relations: Working in governmental agencies, embassies, or international organizations as diplomats, foreign service officers, or policy analysts specializing in Asian affairs.

2. Cultural Exchange Coordinator: Facilitating cultural exchange programs, fostering understanding between Asian countries and other regions, working in educational or cultural institutions.

3. Journalism and Media: Reporting on Asian affairs, writing articles, or working as correspondents for media outlets focusing on Asian culture, politics, or economics.

4. Language Specialist/Translator: Utilizing language skills to work as translators, language instructors, or interpreters in Asian languages for corporations, embassies, or NGOs.

5. International Business Consultant: Assisting companies in developing strategies or operations in Asian markets, leveraging knowledge of Asian business practices and cultures.

6. Academic Researcher/Educator: Pursuing further academic studies or teaching careers in Asian studies, contributing to research or teaching at universities, colleges, or research institutions.

7. International Development Officer: Working in development agencies, NGOs, or charity organizations focusing on social and economic development in Asian regions.

8. Cultural Heritage Preservationist: Preserving and promoting Asian cultural heritage, working in museums, heritage organizations, or tourism boards.

9. Policy Analyst/Consultant: Analyzing policies related to Asia in governmental or non-governmental settings, advising on socio-political issues and global trends.

10. Travel and Tourism Specialist: Designing tours, developing travel packages, or working in tourism agencies that cater to Asian destinations or cultural experiences.

11. Market Research Analyst: Conducting market research for companies interested in expanding or conducting business operations in Asian markets.

12. NGO Administrator: Managing operations, fundraising, or advocacy work in non-profit organizations focused on social issues in Asia.