UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS URBANA-CHAMPAIGN · UNITED STATES
Master of Arts in East Asian Languages & Cultures
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 2 yearsProgram Duration
- Focus on language proficiencyLanguage Goal
- Interdisciplinary approachCurriculum Design
- Research and teaching preparationSkill Development
- Strong financial aid supportFunding Opportunities
- Fall admission onlyApplication Window
The Master of Arts in East Asian Languages and Cultures (EALC) program at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers a comprehensive graduate education focused on the languages, cultures, and societies of East Asia. The program aims to develop advanced proficiency in at least one East Asian language, a broad understanding of East Asian disciplines, and familiarity with both modern and pre-modern periods. Students will gain research skills and teaching preparedness, preparing them for diverse academic and professional careers. The program is structured to encourage interdisciplinary study and research, allowing students to explore various facets of East Asian studies.
Curriculum
The MA program in East Asian Languages and Cultures requires 32 credit hours. Students can choose between a thesis or non-thesis option. Both options require a minimum of 12 hours of 500-level coursework and a minimum GPA of 2.75. A significant component of the program involves demonstrating proficiency in an East Asian language at the fourth-year level.
- Year 1 & 2
- Proseminar in EALCEALC 500
- Two 500-level courses in the major field including one research seminar
- Distribution requirements (outside major field, different culture, different period)
- Elective hours
- Thesis Research (for thesis option)EALC 599
Careers
Graduates of the MA in East Asian Languages and Cultures program are prepared for a variety of careers in academia, government, non-profit organizations, and the private sector. The program's emphasis on language proficiency, cultural understanding, and research skills equips students for roles requiring expertise in East Asian affairs.
- Language Instructor
- Researcher
- Area Specialist
- Cultural Advisor
- Translator/Interpreter
- Foreign Service Officer
- International Relations Specialist
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Master of Arts in East Asian Languages & Cultures program?
- A Bachelor's Degree is required, with a strong background in at least one East Asian language, typically meaning a minimum of two years of formal study. For non-native English speakers, a TOEFL iBT score of 103 overall is needed, with a minimum of 24 in the speaking section.
- How long does the Master of Arts in East Asian Languages & Cultures program take to complete?
- The program is designed to be completed in 2 years and requires 32 credit hours.
- What are the tuition fees for international students?
- Tuition fees for international students are not specified in the provided data.
- Are there any scholarships or financial aid opportunities available for international students?
- Yes, the program offers various funding opportunities including University Fellowships, Foreign Language and Area Studies (FLAS) Fellowships, and Teaching or Research Assistantships. These are typically applied for as part of the graduate admission process.
- What are the application deadlines for the MA in East Asian Languages & Cultures?
- Applications are accepted for Fall admission only, but a specific application deadline is not specified.
- What career paths can graduates pursue after completing this MA program?
- Graduates are prepared for careers as Language Instructors, Researchers, Area Specialists, Cultural Advisors, Translators/Interpreters, Foreign Service Officers, and International Relations Specialists.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeA strong background in at least one East Asian language is expected, typically meaning a minimum of two years of formal study.
TOEFL iBT103 overall, with a minimum of 24 in the speaking sub-section.
Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores are recommended but not required. Non-native English speakers must pass an oral English proficiency test if they are to be considered for teaching assistantships.
Fees
Tuition (international)Not specified
Tuition (home)Not specified
LivingInternational students must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover their living expenses for the duration of their studies to be eligible for a visa.
Financial aid packages often combine fellowships with assistantships.
How to apply
1. Complete Online ApplicationSubmit the graduate admission application online through the Graduate College portal.
2. Submit Statement of PurposeWrite a clear and concise statement detailing your academic and research interests.
3. Provide Letters of ReferenceArrange for three letters of reference from teachers, advisers, or recent employers.
4. Submit Writing SampleProvide a 10-20 page writing sample that showcases your academic writing abilities.
5. Send Official TranscriptsHave official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions sent to SLCL Graduate Student Services. Include English translations if applicable.
6. Submit English Proficiency ScoresFor non-native English speakers, submit TOEFL iBT scores (minimum 103 overall, 24 in speaking). GRE scores are recommended but not required.
7. Address Financial SupportInternational applicants must provide documentation of sufficient financial support to cover study and living expenses.
Scholarships
University FellowshipsNot specified
Foreign Language and Area Studies (FLAS) FellowshipsNot specified
Illinois Global Institute (IGI) FellowshipsNot specified
University Dissertation Completion FellowshipsNot specified
Minority Academic Partnership Plan (MAPP) FellowshipsNot specified
Teaching AssistantshipsNot specified
Research AssistantshipsNot specified
Accreditation
Not specified
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Master of Arts in East Asian Languages & Cultures program?
+
A Bachelor's Degree is required, with a strong background in at least one East Asian language, typically meaning a minimum of two years of formal study. For non-native English speakers, a TOEFL iBT score of 103 overall is needed, with a minimum of 24 in the speaking section.
How long does the Master of Arts in East Asian Languages & Cultures program take to complete?
+
The program is designed to be completed in 2 years and requires 32 credit hours.
What are the tuition fees for international students?
+
Tuition fees for international students are not specified in the provided data.
Are there any scholarships or financial aid opportunities available for international students?
+
Yes, the program offers various funding opportunities including University Fellowships, Foreign Language and Area Studies (FLAS) Fellowships, and Teaching or Research Assistantships. These are typically applied for as part of the graduate admission process.
What are the application deadlines for the MA in East Asian Languages & Cultures?
+
Applications are accepted for Fall admission only, but a specific application deadline is not specified.
What career paths can graduates pursue after completing this MA program?
+
Graduates are prepared for careers as Language Instructors, Researchers, Area Specialists, Cultural Advisors, Translators/Interpreters, Foreign Service Officers, and International Relations Specialists.