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 Jane and Emma who both graduated with a BA (OS) Chinese in 2011. Jane is about to start an 11 month internship at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office as well as applying for postgraduate study, and Emma is getting ready to start her new position as International Data and Support Assistant at the International Dunhuang Project, based at the British Library.

Andi, who graduated in 1996 with a BA (OS) 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.’

Students interested in this course might also like to consider Classics, language courses, Theology and Religion, Oriental Studies or other courses.