Korean studies degree overview

A Korean studies degree teaches students about the history, culture, language, literature, politics, and society of Korea. Students may study the Korean language while exploring topics such as Korean traditions, religion, art, literature, government, business, and modern Korean society. Many programs also examine the relationship between North and South Korea and Korea’s role in international affairs and the global economy.

This degree is a good fit for people who are interested in languages, world cultures, history, international affairs, and global issues. Graduates may work in education, government, international business, diplomacy, journalism, translation, tourism, nonprofit organizations, or research. The language skills and cross-cultural understanding gained through the program can also be valuable in careers that involve international communication and working with Korean-speaking communities.

Korean studies programs provide several ways to study Korean language, history, culture, society, politics, literature, and contemporary Korea, from focused undergraduate certificates to graduate-level study. Here are the education options available:

• Certificate in Korean Studies: An undergraduate-level option that provides focused study of Korean language, culture, history, society, and related subjects. It can be completed alongside a bachelor’s degree and is not required for admission to a graduate program. Current certificate programs are offered by schools such as Arizona State University, Florida International University, UMBC, and Colorado State University.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Korean Studies: A four-year undergraduate degree providing broader study of Korea through subjects such as Korean language, history, culture, society, politics, and literature. A bachelor’s degree is generally the educational step needed before entering a master’s program. However, the exact undergraduate degree title varies by school; some institutions offer closely related bachelor’s programs such as Korean Language and Culture rather than a degree titled exactly “Korean Studies.”
• Master’s Degree in Korean Studies: A graduate-level option providing advanced study of Korea. Students normally need to complete a bachelor’s degree or equivalent undergraduate education before entering a master’s program. The master’s may be offered directly as Korean Studies or as a related graduate degree with a Korean Studies specialization. For example, George Mason University offers an M.A. in Foreign Languages with a Korean Studies concentration, while the University of Oregon offers an M.A. in East Asian Languages and Literatures with a Korean Studies specialization.
• Online Korean Studies Programs: Students can also find online options for studying Korean language and culture, including online courses and certificate-style programs. These can be useful for students who want flexible study without committing to a full degree. For example, Los Angeles City College offers an online Korean Civilization course as part of its Korean Language & Civilization certificate pathway.

A Korean studies degree helps students develop the cultural, historical, language, and analytical skills needed to understand Korea and its role in the wider world. Common skills learned include:

• Korean Language Proficiency: Develop reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills in Korean. Build the ability to communicate effectively while gaining a deeper understanding of the culture connected to the language.
• Korean History: Learn about major historical events, political changes, and cultural developments that have shaped Korea. Understand how Korea’s history continues to influence its society and relationships with other countries.
• Korean Cultures and Societies: Study Korean customs, traditions, values, beliefs, social structures, and everyday life. Develop an appreciation for Korean culture and the ways it has changed over time.
• Korean Literature and Arts: Explore important works of Korean literature, film, music, visual arts, and other forms of cultural expression. Learn how these works reflect Korean history, values, and social issues.

A Korean studies degree prepares graduates for careers that combine language skills, cultural understanding, research, communication, and knowledge of international affairs. Common career paths include:

• Foreign Service Officer: Represent a country abroad by working in diplomacy, international relations, and government programs. Use knowledge of Korean language, culture, and politics to support communication and cooperation between countries.
• Translator: Translate written materials between Korean and English for businesses, government agencies, educational institutions, and other organizations. Use strong language skills and cultural knowledge to communicate information accurately.
• Interpreter: Provide spoken language services for individuals and organizations working across different languages and cultures. Use Korean language skills to facilitate communication in settings such as government, business, education, and international organizations.
• International Business Specialist: Help businesses work with Korean clients, suppliers, partners, and markets. Use knowledge of Korean language, culture, and business practices to support communication and build international relationships.
• Foreign Language Teacher: Teach Korean in schools, colleges, language programs, or private educational settings. Use language proficiency and cultural knowledge to help students develop communication skills and cultural awareness.
• International Relations Specialist: Analyze political, economic, and social developments affecting relationships between Korea and other countries. Apply knowledge of Korean affairs and international relations to support organizations working across borders.