South Asia Studies is an interdisciplinary field focusing on the history, languages, society, literature, and art from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and Bhutan. America's oldest and most distinguished South Asia program, faculty work in multiple disciplines and offer study in nearly 15 South Asian languages.
The Department of South Asia Studies (SAST) offers PhD and MA degrees, attracting exceptional students from around the world. Candidates for the PhD develop a deep familiarity with the history, methodology, and practice of a chosen discipline relevant to the study of South Asia, and a broad knowledge of allied disciplines. Additionally, our PhD candidates will show a demonstrable proficiency in at least two relevant research languages as detailed in the department requirements.
In addition to the completion of coursework and language requirements, PhD candidates are expected to act as Teaching Assistants and/or teach their own classes. PhD candidates, through the course of their time in the department, are expected to make two presentations to the South Asia Colloquium and to successfully pass their Qualifying and Candidacy Exams.
