Program Overview

Program Overview

The Faculty of Philosophy at Heidelberg University offers a unique opportunity for students in Europe to study South Asian Studies, focusing on geographical, social, and economic aspects of South Asian culture, combined with historical and philological aspects. The program considers a broad field of contemporary, modern regional studies, alongside the linguistic and cultural traditions of South Asia.

Facts and Formalities

• Degree: Bachelor of Arts
• Type of programme: Undergraduate
• Start of programme: Winter semester only
• Standard period of study: 6 semesters
• Language(s) of instruction: German, English, possibly South Asian languages
• Fees and contributions: 161.10 € / Semester
• Application procedure: Subjects with no admission restrictions
• Application deadlines: Information about deadlines can be obtained after you have put together a degree program.
• Part-time option: Yes

Course Content

Where students select South Asian studies as a minor subject, they will gain fundamental insights and an overview of the historical, current political and economic developments and events, languages and media, religions and geographical processes which characterise and influence the countries of South Asia. Countries considered include Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka as well as Tibet and the Indian Himalayan region. Students who have South Asian studies as a minor subject are also able to select one or two further, basic modules from the language and cultural courses on offer.

Course Structure

The minor subject consists of compulsory and elective course elements:

1. Compulsory elements include a one-year lecture series entitled, “An Introduction to South Asia”, and a lecture or seminar focusing on a specific, but freely chosen region of South Asia.
2. Students select two elective modules. They can select modules from any of the subject and language courses on offer.

Additional Degrees

• Bachelor 50%
• Bachelor 75%
• Bachelor 100%