As previously mentioned, for both undergraduate and postgraduate courses, a key consideration will be the focus of the degree. Asian studies courses are almost as diverse as the continent itself, so you will need to ensure that your chosen course checks all of your must-haves — like a bucket-list for the serious stuff!

The main areas that are likely to be covered include politics, development, culture, religion, and history, but there could be more specialized options as well, so be sure to identify and prioritize carefully. Many courses require you to complete a baseline of foundation modules to begin with but then to select your preferences as you advance. Just like making a banh mi sandwich in Vietnam, you lay a bread-based foundation, then adorn it with lots of delicious fillings — just be sure that the vendor has your preferred ingredients before you start or you might quickly lose your appetite!

The study style can also be varied at all levels, with some courses focusing more on classroom-based learning and lectures while others encourage personal study and self-lead learning styles. Everyone learns in a different way, so make sure you find a course that balances your needs — the yin to your yang!

Thinking outside the classroom, there may also be possibilities for travel during the course, be it a placement, research or study-based program, so if you are keen to explore further (who isn’t?), consider the availability of such options before you select your program, and be sure to leave plenty of blank pages in your passport ready for all those fresh and exciting stamps!