Chapman University

What you'll study

The Area Studies programme combines disciplinary perspectives — including history, political science, literature, anthropology and language study — to give a comprehensive understanding of a specific world region. Core work typically covers regional history and politics, cultural expression and identity, socioeconomic development, and research methods for area specialists.

• Core modules: Introduction to Area Studies; Research Methods in the Humanities and Social Sciences; Regional Approaches to Culture and Power; Comparative Politics of the Region.
• Language study: Integrated language courses at multiple levels for the chosen region (for example, advanced language, conversation and composition), often including language lab work and media-based language practice.
• Regional specialisms: In-depth courses on sub-regional history, cinema and literature, religion and society, economic development, and contemporary politics.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: Students often take electives from related departments such as International Studies, History, Religious Studies, Economics or Media Studies to build a customised programme.
• Capstone or honours project: A senior seminar or a supervised research project that requires original research or a practised-based portfolio focused on a regional topic.
• Experiential learning: Opportunities for study abroad, internships with local NGOs or businesses in Chapman’s network, and community-engaged projects drawing on Chapman’s Career and Professional Development resources.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have completed secondary education equivalent to a U.S. high school diploma, with competitive grades across a broad curriculum. Chapman looks for students with demonstrated interest in international affairs, languages, or the humanities.

• Strong academic record in humanities and social sciences; many successful applicants present solid coursework in history, language, social studies or related subjects.
• Proof of English proficiency for non-native speakers (accepted tests or institutional equivalents).
• Some background in the chosen regional language is beneficial but not always required; willingness to study language intensively is essential.
• Personal statement and, where requested, letters of recommendation that show intellectual curiosity and readiness for independent research.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in Area Studies are prepared for careers that require regional expertise, language skills and strong analytical abilities. The programme’s interdisciplinary training is valued by employers across sectors.

• Public sector and diplomacy: foreign service, consular work, policy analysis and government agencies focused on international relations.
• Non-governmental organisations and international development: programme coordination, research, and fieldwork for NGOs and multilateral agencies.
• Education and research: teaching, curriculum development, museum work or further study at master’s and doctoral levels.
• Media, communications and publishing: journalism, cultural programming, translation and localisation services.
• Business and consultancy: market entry, regional risk analysis, corporate social responsibility and roles requiring cross-cultural competence.
• Internships and Chapman’s career services can help translate academic skills into practical experience and job placements.

Why study at Chapman University

Chapman offers a personalised undergraduate experience with small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, which benefits students pursuing an interdisciplinary field like Area Studies. The university emphasises experiential learning—students can combine in-class study with internships, community-engaged projects and study abroad options to deepen regional expertise.

• Faculty with regional and interdisciplinary specialisms who supervise independent research and capstone projects.
• Access to Chapman’s Career and Professional Development services and a network of alumni working in international fields.
• Location in Southern California provides proximity to diverse communities, cultural institutions and international businesses, creating opportunities for internships and applied research.
• Collaborative environment across departments enables students to tailor their degree with complementary courses in history, international studies, languages and media.