Master of Arts in Asian Studies
The Master of Arts in Asian Studies (MASIA) is a leader in educating the next generation of Asia experts.
Home to more than half of the global population and many of the world’s largest and fastest-growing economies, Asia is at the center of global dynamism. This program provides you with the necessary skills to meet the demands of policy, business and scholarship in a globalizing Asia.
Quick facts
Deadlines
Fall 2026 Term
Fee waiver deadline: December 1, 2025
Priority deadline: January 15, 2026 – scholarship consideration
Final deadline: April 1, 2026 – without scholarship consideration
Program duration
1.5 – 2 years, full-time
Credits
- 9 core credits
- 9 concentration credits
- 18 additional credits (electives, a second concentration or certificate program)
Average cohort size
25-30
Who should apply?
If you wish to gain a deeper understanding of policy, business and scholarship in Asia, the MASIA program is a perfect home for you. You’ll gain a unique combination of traditional area studies, functional training and strategic insights, which will enhance your marketability in employment or a bridge to further graduate study.
With access to internship opportunities across Washington, DC, in government, NGOs, think tanks and the private sector, you’ll finish the program with valuable hands-on experience that will prepare you for professional success. On campus, you’ll have the opportunity to engage with a range of high-level visitors through programs such as the Georgetown Initiative for U.S.-China Dialogue on Global Issues, the Georgetown South Asia Speakers Series, the Asia-in-Depth Lecture Series and various programmatic events offered through the Asian Studies Program itself.
Curriculum
The MASIA program combines deep regional knowledge and advanced analytical skills. Our curriculum requires students to become regional experts with a specific functional concentration, such as Security and Politics, Political Economy, History and Culture, and Environment, Energy and Transnational Issues.
The 36-credit program allows you to choose either a three- or four-semester track, providing flexibility to pursue internships or part-time employment. Some students even work full-time during the program pending the flexibility of their employer.”Our program goes beyond training by challenging you to transform knowledge into concrete tools to use in your careers—whether by learning to write effective policy memos or conduct business negotiations.
Career paths
Career development is a key emphasis for our students as we develop the next generation of leading Asia specialists. Our leadership team works closely with students in their pursuit of professional objectives.
Graduates have gone on to successful careers across nonprofit, private and public sector industries at places like CrowdStrike, the U.S. Department of Defense and the Government of Japan.
“You will learn new skills or strengthen existing ones that will be extremely valuable in the workforce. That includes things like foreign language skills, policy writing, research design, data analytics or even more technical skills like coding and GIS.”
“For me, MASIA was my anchor, and it still is in many ways. It’s a close-knit community that I will forever cherish, and I’ve made some great friends through the program. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the guidance of some wonderful MASIA professors and alums who’ve helped me through a multitude of things such as what classes to take, the job searching process, exploring new research interests and so much more.”
“The program helped expand my knowledge of and exposure to a wide array of foreign policy and security topics relevant to my focus on Chinese foreign policy and greater regional security dynamics. Just having the exposure to knowledgeable and experienced folks who are currently, or have previously, worked in various parts of the foreign policy sphere was encouraging and impactful for my own career motivations.”
“From regression analysis to policy memo writing, Asian Studies courses teach valuable skills and are memorable in their own unique ways. Each faculty member brings an incredible wealth of knowledge and experience, often sharing their own experiences of working with key leaders, governments, and organizations around the world.”
in the world for international relations master’s programs
2024 Foreign Policy Magazine
employed, continuing education or not seeking employment
Class of 2024
Faculty highlights
Our faculty are world-class scholars and renowned practitioners, including senior policy-makers who helped draft climate and energy agreements with China, negotiated with North Korea to end nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs and assisted the president of the United States in responding to crises in Southeast Asia.
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Evan MedeirosPenner Family Chair in Asian Studies and the Cling Family Senior Fellow in US-China Relations
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Victor ChaDistinguished University Professor
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Diana KimAssociate Professor
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