Oriental Studies

Among subjects in the humanities, Oriental Studies is unique in introducing students to civilisations that are radically different from the Western ones that form the basis of the curriculum in most British schools and colleges. The courses present both the major traditions of the regions studied and, in most cases, their modern developments. All courses include language, literature, history and culture, and there is a wide range of options in such fields as art and archaeology, history, literature, philosophy, religion and modern social studies.

Oriental Studies has a long history in Oxford. The Bodleian and other libraries have acquired magnificent collections. The Oriental Institute, Institute for Chinese Studies, Bodleian Japanese and Indian Institute Libraries offer loan collections in their respective fields. Adjacent to the Oriental Institute is the Ashmolean Museum, which houses superb collections. The Sackler Library includes the principal library for Egyptology and Ancient Near Eastern Studies.

A degree in Oriental Studies is not a vocational degree, but a wide range of employers appreciate the skills our graduates gain from their studies. Careers options exist in finance, the media, commerce, the Civil Service, law, accountancy and the arts. Around 30% of Oriental Studies graduates go on to further study.

Recent Oriental Studies graduates include a management consultant and a marketing executive in the motor industry. Leigh, who graduated in 1991 with a degree in Japanese, is currently working for Walmart Stores Inc. in Arkansas, US, where she is Vice President responsible for international mergers and acquisitions. She says: ‘I worked in finance for 17 years divided between London and Tokyo, and it was working in Tokyo that I first came across Walmart, who first became a client, and is now my employer. I worked first for Walmart in Hong Kong, and have recently moved to the head office in the US.’

Andrew, who graduated in 1996 also with a degree in Japanese, is now Director, International Business Development at Ping Identity. He says: ‘My first job after graduating was with a small software company in Cambridge. I’ve since worked for two software start-ups, as well as much larger companies (though acquisition). My time at Oxford gave me a good foundation for the varied demands of both small and large companies, and the skills required to handle the constant change and learning required in the software industry. I’ve also had the opportunity to do business in Japan on several occasions through my career.’