Master of Arts in Oriental Languages and Cultures
What is the MA in Oriental Languages and Cultures?
The Master of Arts degree in Oriental Languages and Cultures (with four study fields: Chinese Language and Culture; Indian Language and Culture; Japanese Language and Culture; Middle East Studies) comprises one year of study. The focus is on languages in context. This implies that language training remains important, but is addressed in its relevant cultural context, and against the background of the methodological skills acquired in the Bachelor’s degree. The study takes two years and includes the possibility for a study period in Asia or North Africa and an internship.
What does the course look like? What are the aims of the course?
In the Master of Arts of one year, the courses focus on language training in a relevant cultural context. Contemporary topics, including religion, philosophy, literature, and politics are discussed. The programme aims at a thorough understanding of the studied regions, taking into account their complex realities. Students personally take part in research through their master’s thesis. Apart from this, they have the opportunity to do an internship in several sectors, such as companies, all kinds of governmental and non-governmental organizations, or cultural institutes.
Why study Oriental Languages and Cultures at Ghent University?
The master’s programme provides a balance of intensive language training and the study of relevant cultural contexts and their complexities, also in a master’s thesis. It pays attention to both past and present, language and culture, and to the mutual links of the different regions of Asia. An internship offers students the possibility to become acquainted with a professional sector of their choice.
What are the central research themes in line with the course?
The main research centres focus on religion and philosophy (Islam, Buddhism, Jainism, Hinduism Confucianism, and so on; in both contemporary and historical contexts), modern history, society and politics (mainly the Middle East, China and Japan), and linguistics (mainly Chinese).