Indiana University Bloomington

What you'll study

This programme emphasises sustained, interdisciplinary engagement with a single world region while building advanced language skills. Study typically includes a mix of core research methods and theory modules alongside region‑specific seminars in subjects such as modern and premodern history, comparative politics, cultural studies, economic development, migration, media and transnational processes.

• Advanced language training: intensive language courses that move students beyond intermediate proficiency toward professional or research competency.
• Research methods: qualitative and quantitative methods, archival research, oral history techniques and area‑specific methodological approaches.
• Regional seminars: thematic courses focusing on contemporary politics, social change, literature and cultural production, religion, and economic policy in the chosen region.
• Capstone or thesis: an independent research project option (master’s thesis) or a professional capstone depending on the pathway chosen.
• Electives and language electives: opportunity to take complementary modules from related departments (history, anthropology, political science, economics, media studies).
• Fieldwork and study abroad: many students undertake archival work, internships or semester(s) abroad to gain on‑the‑ground expertise.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in a relevant discipline (for example, area studies, international relations, languages, history, political science, anthropology or economics). Admissions decisions are made on the basis of the overall academic record and the applicant’s demonstrated fit with the programme.

• Academic transcripts: official transcripts from all post‑secondary institutions attended.
• Language background: prior study of the regional language is desirable for many specialisations; some applicants with little background may be admitted to intensive language pathways.
• Statement of purpose: a clear research or professional statement outlining regional interests, proposed topics and how the degree supports career goals.
• Letters of recommendation: typically two or three academic or professional references.
• Writing sample or research proposal: often required for students seeking the thesis option or those with research ambitions.
• English proficiency: for international applicants, demonstration of English ability through recognised tests or equivalent qualifications, unless exempt.
• Optional materials: CV/resume, GRE scores where relevant (check the programme’s guidance for current policy).

Career prospects

Graduates leave with specialised regional knowledge, language competence and research skills valued by a wide range of employers. Common career destinations include:

• Government ministries, foreign service and diplomatic corps
• International organisations and multilateral institutions
• Non‑governmental organisations and policy think‑tanks
• International business and trade, market analysis, country risk assessment
• Media, journalism and communications with a regional focus
• Academic research and doctoral study in area studies, history, political science or anthropology
• Museums, cultural institutions and international education programmes

Why study at Indiana University Bloomington

Indiana University Bloomington offers a strong environment for advanced area studies through an established network of regional centres and language programmes housed within the Hamilton Lugar School of Global and International Studies and related departments. Students benefit from extensive language resources, dedicated faculty with deep regional expertise, and opportunities to collaborate with centres focused on Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, East Asia, Russia and Eastern Europe, South Asia and other regions.

The university’s extensive research library collections, specialised archives and active study‑abroad and internship partnerships support both the coursework and independent research components of the degree. The campus community fosters interdisciplinary exchange, enabling students to combine area expertise with skills in policy analysis, media, development practice or academic research.