Program faculty members also provide instruction in significant contemporary topics of international relations, political economy, gender and development in the South Asian subcontinent. Several University departments and programs include specialists on South Asia. Languages of South Asia offered on a regular basis by the Department of Asian Languages and Literature include Hindi and Sanskrit. In addition, Urdu, Prakrit and Pali are taught, and there are frequent special offerings of other major languages including Bengali, Gujarati, Punjabi, or Nepali. Courses in such special fields as sociolinguistics, Vedic literature, epigraphy and paleography, and Paninian grammar are available.
Instruction is available both in English and, for advanced students, in the languages involved.
South Asian Studies graduates have gone on to doctoral level training in various academic disciplines, as well as careers in government service, journalism, teaching, research, and the travel industry. Applicants must also meet all application requirements and deadlines set by the Jackson School and described in its application guidelines. Meeting minimum standards, however, does not ensure admission. Previous training in a South Asian language is desirable, but not required. All students must complete 45 credits.