Asian Studies: University of Passau

Description of Content

1. Theory and Methods:
   • In this module general and specific theories of Southeast Asian society, culture and politics as well as history are discussed and basic research skills like qualitative and quantitative methods of data collection and analysis (including statistics, network analysis, and participatory methods) are presented. The reading list focuses on recent and current research on Southeast Asia.
2. Advanced Study Areas:
   • These allow specialisation in specific fields of study and research. Four main advanced study areas are offered:
     • Development policy and economic change
     • Gender, religion and culture
     • Conflicts and state formation
     • Urbanism

     Students must acquire four credits in two advanced study areas that form the focus and specialisation of their studies (40 ECTS). The Master's thesis must be connected to one advanced study area in which the student has specialised.

3. Research Module:
   • In this module the student conducts her/his own research on a selected topic (30 ECTS). In general, the research should be conducted in Southeast Asia, as far as possible within the framework of current research projects and/or in connection with academic institutes in the region.
4. Master's thesis (20 ECTS)
   • Degree and Grades: After having successfully completed the study programme, the student is awarded the degree of Master of Arts in Southeast Asian Studies. All required credits collected during study programme are relevant for the final grade of the degree. The final grade is the average of all grades multiplied by the respective ECTS. In addition to regular coursework students will participate in workshops where they present their research proposals and findings.