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M-A in Chinese And South East Asian Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University
Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is Chinese and South East Asian Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University Delhi?
This M.A. Chinese and South East Asian Studies program at Jawaharlal Nehru University focuses on providing an in-depth understanding of the region''''s complex dynamics. It covers the politics, economy, history, and international relations of China and Southeast Asian nations. With India''''s increasing strategic and economic engagement with East and Southeast Asia, this specialization addresses a growing demand for experts in area studies, critical for policy formulation and business strategies.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for graduates from any discipline holding a Bachelor''''s degree, particularly those with a keen interest in international affairs, Asian studies, or regional geopolitics. It caters to fresh graduates aspiring to careers in diplomacy, think tanks, academia, or international business. Professionals seeking to specialize in Asian markets or enhance their understanding of India''''s neighborhood policies would also greatly benefit from this rigorous academic program.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths, including roles in the Ministry of External Affairs, intelligence agencies, international organizations, and major Indian and multinational corporations focused on Asia. Potential roles include policy analysts, research associates, foreign service officers, and consultants. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 5-8 LPA, with significant growth potential as expertise in this critical region is highly valued in India''''s evolving global footprint.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Foundational Area Studies Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with core theories of International Relations, political economy, and history specific to China and Southeast Asia. Focus on developing a strong conceptual base, regularly reviewing readings, and participating in classroom discussions.
Tools & Resources
JNU Library (physical and e-resources), JSTOR, Project MUSE, China Quarterly, Journal of Southeast Asian Studies
Career Connection
A robust theoretical foundation is crucial for analytical roles in think tanks, government policy units, and academic research.
Develop Chinese Language Proficiency- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate consistent time beyond compulsory classes to practice Chinese language skills. Utilize language learning apps, engage in peer conversation groups, and consume Chinese media (news, simple dramas) to build fluency and cultural context.
Tools & Resources
HSK textbooks, Pleco dictionary app, Anki flashcards, CCTV News (English & Mandarin), Duolingo
Career Connection
Language proficiency is a significant advantage for diplomatic service, international business, and research roles involving primary sources from China.
Engage in Critical Thinking and Essay Writing- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on developing strong analytical and argumentative skills through essay assignments. Seek feedback from professors, attend academic writing workshops, and practice structuring coherent arguments with evidence.
Tools & Resources
JNU''''s academic writing support services (if available), Purdue OWL, Academic journals for example essays
Career Connection
Essential for all research, policy analysis, and communication roles, enabling clear and persuasive articulation of complex regional issues.
Intermediate Stage
Conduct Focused Research on Regional Issues- (Semester 3)
Identify specific areas of interest within East/Southeast Asian studies and conduct mini-research projects or extended essays. This helps in developing specialized knowledge and refining research skills before the final dissertation.
Tools & Resources
JNU research guides, Statistical databases (World Bank, ASEAN Statistics), Academic databases, Faculty consultation
Career Connection
Directly prepares students for roles requiring in-depth analysis, report writing, and policy brief development for government, NGOs, and corporations.
Seek Internships with Relevant Organizations- (Semester 3)
Proactively apply for internships at government bodies (e.g., MEA, NITI Aayog), think tanks (e.g., ORF, IDSA, Gateway House), or international NGOs working on Asian affairs. Gain practical exposure and build professional networks.
Tools & Resources
JNU Career Guidance Cell, LinkedIn, Organization websites, Faculty recommendations
Career Connection
Internships provide hands-on experience, enhance resumes, and often lead to pre-placement offers or strong referrals in the target career fields.
Participate in Seminars, Workshops, and Academic Events- (Semester 3)
Attend and actively participate in seminars, conferences, and workshops hosted by JNU, other universities, or think tanks focusing on East and Southeast Asia. This broadens perspectives, introduces new research methodologies, and facilitates networking.
Tools & Resources
JNU event calendars, Email lists of relevant research centers, Academic conference websites
Career Connection
Builds intellectual capital, exposes students to current debates, and creates opportunities to interact with leading scholars and practitioners, vital for academic and policy careers.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Dissertation/Capstone Project- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant effort to the dissertation (if chosen) or capstone research project. Choose a novel and relevant topic, develop a robust research question, conduct thorough research, and produce a high-quality academic thesis.
Tools & Resources
Faculty supervisor, JNU dissertation guidelines, Citation management software (Zotero, Mendeley), Advanced statistical software (if applicable)
Career Connection
A strong dissertation showcases independent research capability, critical analysis, and deep subject matter expertise, highly valued for advanced research roles and PhD applications.
Network Strategically and Prepare for Placements- (Semester 4)
Actively engage with alumni, guest speakers, and mentors to understand career paths and opportunities. Refine resume, practice interview skills, and prepare for competitive exams (e.g., UPSC Civil Services for foreign service).
Tools & Resources
JNU Alumni Association, Career Guidance Cell, LinkedIn, Mock interview sessions
Career Connection
Strategic networking and meticulous preparation are crucial for securing desired placements in government, think tanks, international organizations, or private sector roles.
Stay Updated on Regional Geopolitical Developments- (Semester 4)
Continuously follow current events, policy debates, and economic trends in East and Southeast Asia through reputable news sources, academic analyses, and think tank reports. Develop the ability to critically assess complex regional issues.
Tools & Resources
Reputable international news outlets (e.g., The Economist, SCMP, Nikkei Asia), Specific regional news aggregators, Reports from major think tanks (e.g., CSIS, Chatham House)
Career Connection
Essential for maintaining relevance and credibility in policy, research, and diplomatic roles, where understanding real-time developments is paramount.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor’s degree in any discipline under 10+2+3 pattern of education with at least 50% marks. Candidates with previous background/knowledge of any Chinese or Southeast Asian language may be given due weightage.
Duration: 2 years
Credits: 64 Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CCC 401 | International Relations in East Asia | Core | 4 | Approaches to International Relations, Theories of International Relations, Evolution of East Asian International Relations, Regional Security Complex in East Asia, Great Power Dynamics |
| CCC 402 | History of Modern China | Core | 4 | Decline of Imperial China, Rise of Nationalism, Warlordism and Civil War, Rise of Communism, Establishment of PRC, Post-Mao Reforms |
| CCC 403 | Political Economy of China | Core | 4 | Theoretical Perspectives, Role of State in Economic Development, Economic Reforms and Open Door Policy, Industrialization and Agriculture, Trade and Investment, Development Challenges |
| CCC 404 | Politics and Society in China | Core | 4 | Socialist Transformation, Ideology of CCP, Leadership and Succession, Political Institutions, Social Change and Urban-Rural Divide, Environmental Issues and Human Rights |
| CCC 405 | Chinese Language I | Core | 4 | Basic Grammar and Phonetics (Pinyin), Tone System and Character Writing, Everyday Conversation, Reading Simple Texts, Introduction to Chinese Culture |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CCC 406 | India and Southeast Asia | Core | 4 | Historical and Cultural Linkages, Post-Colonial Interactions, India''''s Act East Policy, Economic Cooperation, Security Engagement, Bilateral Relations |
| CCC 407 | Economic Development of Southeast Asia | Core | 4 | Colonial Legacies, Post-Independence Economic Models, Role of State in Development, Regional Economic Integration (ASEAN), Trade and Investment, Economic Challenges |
| CCC 408 | Politics and Society in Southeast Asia | Core | 4 | State Formation and Political Systems, Ethnicity and Religion, Conflict and Social Movements, Democratization Processes, Civil-Military Relations |
| CCC 409 | International Relations of Southeast Asia | Core | 4 | Geopolitics of Southeast Asia, Regional Security Architecture, ASEAN''''s Role, Major Power Influence (US, China, Japan, India), Maritime Security and Territorial Disputes |
| CCC 410 | Chinese Language II | Elective | 4 | Intermediate Grammar, Vocabulary Expansion, Reading Longer Texts, Writing Simple Essays, Cultural Nuances and Listening Comprehension |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CCC 501 | Theory and Practice of International Relations in East Asia | Core | 4 | Realism, Liberalism, Constructivism in East Asia, Regional Security Dilemmas, Power Transition Theory, Diplomacy and Conflict Resolution, Regional Security Frameworks |
| CCC 502 | India and East Asia | Core | 4 | Historical Ties and Cultural Exchange, Post-Cold War Engagement, Economic Linkages and Strategic Partnership, Multilateral Forums, Challenges in Bilateral Relations |
| CCC 503 | China’s Foreign Policy | Core | 4 | Historical Background and Ideological Foundations, Decision-Making Process, Relations with Major Powers, Belt and Road Initiative, South China Sea Disputes, Regional Hegemony and Global Ambitions |
| CCC 504 | Southeast Asian Regionalism | Core | 4 | Origins and Evolution of ASEAN, ASEAN Charter and Community Building, Economic Integration, Political-Security Community, Socio-Cultural Community, ASEAN''''s External Relations |
| CCC 505 | Chinese Language III | Elective | 4 | Advanced Grammar and Complex Sentence Structures, Reading Authentic Materials, Essay Writing and Oral Presentation, Business Chinese, Translation Exercises |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CCC 506 | Research Methods in East and Southeast Asian Studies | Core | 4 | Research Design and Methodology, Quantitative and Qualitative Methods, Data Collection and Analysis, Academic Writing and Citation, Ethical Considerations and Archival Research |
| CCC 507 | Seminar on Contemporary East Asia | Core | 4 | Current Political Issues, Economic Trends and Social Changes, Environmental Challenges, Security Dynamics and Emerging Technologies, Case Studies in East Asian Development |
| CCC 508 | Seminar on Contemporary Southeast Asia | Core | 4 | Geopolitical Shifts and Regional Integration Issues, Democratization Challenges, Economic Disparities, Non-Traditional Security Threats, Human Rights and Governance |
| CCC 509 | Chinese Language IV | Elective | 4 | Fluency Development and Advanced Conversation, Advanced Reading and Writing, Specialized Vocabulary, Translation and Interpreting Skills, Literary Analysis |
| CCC 510 | Dissertation | Elective | 4 | Independent Research Project, Literature Review and Thesis Formulation, Data Collection and Analysis, Argumentation and Academic Writing, Viva Voce Examination |
