De La Salle University

What you'll study

The programme combines core international studies theory and research training with specialised coursework on the peoples, states and institutions of Asia. Students follow a mix of compulsory and elective modules and complete an independent research thesis or a substantial capstone project under faculty supervision.

• Core themes: theories of international relations, comparative regionalism, international political economy, and research methods (qualitative and quantitative).
• Area and thematic modules: Southeast Asian politics and society, East Asian security and foreign policy, South Asian contemporary issues, ASEAN studies, migration and diasporas in Asia, regional integration, and China’s regional influence.
• Policy and applied courses: Philippine foreign policy, diplomatic practice, development and governance in Asian contexts, conflict resolution, and regional economic cooperation.
• Research and language training: supervised thesis/project, research seminars, and opportunities for intensive language study relevant to Asia (e.g. Mandarin, Japanese, Korean, Bahasa Indonesia) where available.
• Structure and assessment: assessment typically combines essays, policy briefs, presentations, research papers and a final thesis or capstone; students may choose a coursework‑plus‑thesis route depending on academic focus and approval.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree. Degrees in social sciences, humanities, international relations, political science, development studies, economics, history or related disciplines are particularly relevant, though applicants with professional experience and a strong academic record from other fields may also be considered.

• Official transcript of records from undergraduate studies.
• A statement of purpose outlining academic interests and proposed research areas, especially in relation to Asian studies.
• Curriculum vitae or resume showing relevant academic and professional experience.
• Letters of recommendation (academic and/or professional).
• Evidence of English language proficiency where applicable for international applicants.
• Some applicants may be invited to an interview or asked to submit a writing sample; candidates intending to pursue thesis research should indicate potential supervisors or research topics.

Career prospects

Graduates develop regional expertise, research skills and policy analysis capabilities sought after across the public, private and non‑profit sectors. Common career paths include:

• Diplomacy and foreign service roles at national ministries and embassies.
• Policy analyst or researcher positions in think tanks, research institutes and international organisations focusing on Asia.
• Programme and advocacy roles with NGOs and multilateral agencies working on development, human rights, migration and governance in Asia.
• Private‑sector careers in international business, risk analysis, regional consultancy and market research with an Asian focus.
• Journalism, public affairs and communications specialising in Asian political and economic developments.
• Academic and teaching careers, including progression to doctoral research in Asian studies or related fields.

Why study at De La Salle University

De La Salle University offers an interdisciplinary International Studies programme grounded in a strong social science tradition and active faculty research on Asian affairs. Its location in Manila provides direct access to government agencies, foreign missions, regional policy forums and a vibrant network of NGOs and academic partners across Asia.

• Research supervision: students benefit from supervisors with expertise across East, Southeast and South Asia and from opportunities to participate in faculty research projects.
• Interdisciplinary learning: the programme draws on political science, history, economics and development studies to provide a rounded understanding of Asian issues.
• Resources and networks: access to university libraries, archives and seminars, and connections to external internships and policy institutions in the region.
• Professional development: training emphasises practical research, policy writing and language skills to prepare graduates for careers in diplomacy, policy and international engagement.