The Master of Arts program in Asian civilizations requires a minimum of 30 s.h. of graduate credit, including 24 s.h. earned in residence at the University of Iowa. Students must maintain a cumulative grade-point average of at least 3.00.
Detailed information on degree requirements is sent to all applicants. By the end of the first semester in residence, students propose a study plan developed in consultation with their advisor and in accordance with guidelines for specializations within the program.
Currently, the department is not accepting applicants for any track.
Applicants must meet the admission requirements of the Graduate College; see the Manual of Rules and Regulations on the Graduate College website. The Department of Asian and Slavic Languages and Literatures requires a grade-point average (GPA) of at least 3.00 for regular admission and a GPA of at least 2.75 for conditional admission.
A BA in Chinese language and literature, teaching Chinese as a second language, or the equivalent is required for study in the MA in teaching Chinese as a second language track. Chinese language proficiency equivalent to third-year Chinese, as determined by examination, is required for the MA in Chinese studies track.
All international applicants must submit Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) iBT scores for reading, listening, speaking, and writing. They must also submit an essay in response to specific questions indicated in the application instructions. Applicants whose first language is not English must score at least 98 on the TOEFL.
Applicants must submit a statement of purpose, a research paper written in English, three letters of recommendation, and scores on the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) General Test.
Both international and U.S. graduate applications requesting financial support for the following academic year are due Feb. 1. All other applications are accepted until April 15 for fall admission and Oct. 1 for spring admission.
Application materials are available from the department.
Graduate students have access to the following financial aid and scholarship resources. Contact the Department of Asian and Slavic Languages and Literatures for application information and see Graduate Funding on the department's website for details about each funding opportunity.
The master's degree program in Asian civilizations prepares students for doctoral study in a variety of disciplines. It also may be a good choice for students planning nonacademic careers in which advanced knowledge of Asian civilizations could be useful. For example, students working toward professional degrees, such as an MD or JD, may decide to earn the MA in Asian civilizations while completing the professional degree. The program also provides an excellent background for advanced study in the humanities.
The number of Americans who can speak Asian languages is relatively small, so many career opportunities exist for individuals trained in these areas.
The Pomerantz Career Center is a great resource for students researching internships and careers.