South Asia Studies M.A. Academic Requirements 2012-13 (entering class)

Asian Studies

Students also must fulfill the general requirements for the field of Asian Studies, that is, an additional two Asian Studies courses outside of South Asia Studies.

Students in South Asia Studies also have the option of pursuing a specialization in the International Relations of Asia (AsiaIR). 

International Economics

All candidates for the M.A. degree must complete a concentration in the field of International Economics by taking four to six economics courses at SAIS. Students can also pursue a specialization within International Economics by taking additional course work.

Students in South Asia Studies also have the option of pursuing a specialization in Emerging Markets

Core Courses

All SAIS students must pass two core exams and/or courses. South Asia Studies concentrators must pass Comparative National Systems as one of their core requirements prior to the start of their third semester. If the remaining core is not completed by the start of the final semester, the student must enroll in a core course.

Language Proficiency

South Asia Studies M.A. candidates must pass exams to demonstrate proficiency in Hindi-Urdu or Persian (Farsi). All non-native English speakers are required to pass an English placement exam upon entering SAIS. Native Hindi-Urdu or Persian (Farsi) speakers must pass proficiency in a second language which can include English. 

Capstone

South Asia Studies concentrators must complete ONE of the following capstones:

1.  South Asia Studies Oral Exam

2.  M.A. Oral Exam (to compete for honors—if eligible)

A total of 16 courses taken for credit are required for an M.A. degree (unless a student has advanced standing or is in a dual-degree program).

Concentration Files