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Regional Study, Global Impact

Photo: Manny Teitelbaum

Emmanuel Teitelbaum, Director, Asian Studies Program

Asia is the most dynamic and rapidly changing region in the world. This continent is as diverse as its populations, which drive the region's changing needs and roles in the global arena. Asia comprises almost 30 percent of the earth's land mass, and with 3.3 billion people, it is home to 60 percent of the world's population.

Asia's growing significance in the 21st century is certain. Its unprecedented rate of growth is transforming what was for centuries a predominantly agricultural region. On the path to sustained economic development, urban migration and international trade are exploding. Problems still endure, however, as Asia is a flashpoint of conflicts and economic benefits are not evenly distributed.

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The Master of Arts in Asian Studies program at the Elliott School prepares students to have a greater understanding of the region's security significance as well as its culture and history. The interdisciplinary curriculum emphasizes both analytical skills as well as practical, professional skills. It encourages a broad perspective of Asia, while allowing students to focus on a particular country.

The Sigur Center for Asian Studies at the Elliott School administers the M.A. program in Asian Studies and offers students many valuable resources and opportunities. The program is directed by a large, renowned faculty whose expertise includes the foreign affairs, security and policy, language and culture, economics, and history of East, Southeast and South Asia. The highly diverse and experienced faculty prepare students for careers in the public, private and non-profit sectors through rigorous coursework in political science, history and international affairs. To supplement studies in Washington, D.C., the Sigur Center also provides funding for summer language study and research projects in Asia.