Skip to main content

South Asian Studies Major

The major in South Asian Studies (SAST) combines the requirements of a discipline-based first major with significant course work in South Asian studies. South Asian Studies can be taken only as a second major and is intended to provide students with a broad understanding of the history, culture, and languages of South Asia as well as the region’s current social, political, and economic conditions. Work in a discipline-based major coupled with a focus on South Asia prepares students for graduate study, employment in nongovernmental organizations, or business and professional careers in which an understanding of South Asia is essential. The interdisciplinary nature of the South Asian Studies major permits students to choose courses from a wide range of disciplines. Among the requirements of the South Asian Studies major are: seven term courses (at least two pre-modern), a senior essay, and the study of one South Asian language at the advanced level (courses designated L5).

Additional undergraduate offerings and resources

South Asian Studies Council

View SAST courses being offered during the current or upcoming semester, as well as courses offered in past semesters.

Blue and Purple Sari
South Asian Studies Council

Learn more about our language programs in Hindi, Sanskrit, and Telugu, and about opportunities and resources for studying additional South Asian Languages.

Teal Sari
South Asian Studies Council

See what funding opportunities, including summer research and language study grants, are available for undergraduate students.

Orange and Magenta Sari

Contact us

SAST Director of Undergraduate Studies

South Asian Studies Council, Buddhist Studies Initiative
Senior Lector in Sanskrit and Director of Undergraduate Studies, South Asian Studies; Coordinator, Buddhist Studies Initiative
Aleksandar Uskokov

SAST Registrar