Emory University

What you'll study

The curriculum combines required core modules with regionally focused electives and practical experience. Typical components include:

• Core courses: introductions to area studies theory and comparative methods, research design, and courses in qualitative and quantitative social‑science methods.
• Regional concentration: a sequence of intermediate and advanced seminars on the chosen region’s history, politics, cultural practices and contemporary issues.
• Language proficiency: sustained study of a regional language to at least intermediate/advanced level; language courses are integrated with culture and literature offerings.
• Interdisciplinary electives: options drawn from history, political science, anthropology, economics, religion and literature that deepen thematic knowledge (for example, migration, development, conflict, media).
• Research and capstone: an independent research project or senior thesis supervised by faculty, often culminating in a public presentation or portfolio.
• Experiential learning: study abroad, internships with NGOs, government agencies or businesses, and practicum courses that apply regional knowledge to professional contexts.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma or equivalent and demonstrate a strong academic record. Admissions typically consider school transcripts, a personal statement that explains regional interest and goals, and one or more letters of recommendation. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through accepted tests or qualifications if their prior education was not in English. Some applicants may choose to submit standardised test scores where permitted by the university’s admissions policy. Successful candidates show evidence of curiosity about other cultures, language aptitude, and readiness for interdisciplinary study.

Career prospects

Graduates of Area Studies develop skills valued across sectors: language fluency, cross‑cultural communication, regional expertise, research and critical analysis. Common career paths include:

• International relations and diplomacy, including roles in foreign service and governmental foreign affairs departments.
• Non‑profit and international development organisations, in program management, policy analysis or regional coordination.
• Public policy, research and think tanks focusing on regional political and economic issues.
• Education and academic pathways, including teaching, curriculum development and graduate study.
• Private sector roles in multinational companies, consultancy, market analysis and cultural liaison positions where regional knowledge is an asset.
• Media, translation and communications roles that require language skills and contextual understanding.

Why study at Emory University

Emory offers Area Studies students a liberal‑arts environment with strong interdisciplinary support and faculty who work across humanities and social sciences. The university’s location in Atlanta provides access to a wide range of international organisations, cultural institutions and internship opportunities. Emory supports language learning through dedicated resources and study‑abroad offices, and students benefit from research centres and events that connect academic study with contemporary global issues. The programme’s emphasis on supervised research, experiential learning and close faculty mentorship helps students prepare for both professional careers and further study.