The basic aim of this Master's Program is to provide a comprehensive academic understanding of the major regions of our complex and rapidly changing world. The program of instruction and research is designed to give specialialized knowledge and professional training. The concept of Area Studies varies enormously from institution to institution. At Tsukuba, Area Studies is a master's degree program in the Graduate School. The program provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to the major regions of the world, placing emphasis on the Pacific region's historical development, natural environment, social structure and culture.
Courses of instruction are avilable in the following eight areas.
The mastery of foreign languages is indispensable for Area Studies. A wide variety of language courses are available. A course for teachers of Japanese as a foreign language is also available.