Southern Asia Studies

Southern Asia Studies is an interdisciplinary program that allows students to study the customs, social organization, ideas, historical experiences and present-day conditions of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and their neighbours. Students with a Major or Minor in Southern Asia Studies take courses in religion, history, political science and other disciplines – including film studies, economics, education, linguistics, English, sociology and anthropology.

Major in Southern Asia Studies — 42 credits

The program focuses on the societies and cultures of India, Pakistan and Bangladesh with emphasis on their religious and cultural systems and their modern history and development. Some comparative work on other Indianized cultures of Southern Asia such as Sri Lanka, Nepal, Indonesia and Malaysia may also be included.

Minor in Southern Asia Studies — 24 credits

Gives students the opportunity to explore and learn about the cultural, historical and political systems of the countries in Southern Asia, including India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. Students are introduced to the religions of the region such as Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism and Jainism.

See the BA degree description for information on the core and elective requirements. For a complete list of courses: Undergraduate Calendar

Sample courses include:

History of South Asia, Vietnam War, Religion and the Arts in South and Southeast Asia, Politics of South Asia, From Rammohun Roy to Gandhi and After, Hindu Sadhana: From Yajna to Yoga, The Golden Age of Bhakti, State and Society in Asia, Introduction to Islam, Introduction to Hinduism, Theravada Buddhism

Department of Religion

The Department of Religion is dedicated to the academic study of the world’s religious traditions and of social and cultural phenomena affected by religions. Whatever the focus–ancient or contemporary, East or West, mysticism or ethics, ritual or philosophy-informed appreciation of the beliefs and values of other cultures is an essential dimension of education for today’s world. Religion offers students an opportunity to explore the contemporary religious scene and critically examine the cultural, social, and political aspects of each religion.

Admission Requirements

Southern Asia Studies (BA - Major/Minor) requirements: Minimum cut-off averages, admission statistics and program requirements.

Undergraduate admissions guidelines: For information on international admission, required documents, proof of language proficiency, the university admissions timetable, selection and notification process.