Master of Social Sciences
Master of Social Sciences in Geopolitics of South Asia
Our new one-year Master’s by coursework programme commencing AY2026/2027 on the Geopolitics of South Asia is an exciting addition to our existing Master’s by research offerings. This programme offers a structured and intensive learning experience that equips students with both breadth and depth of knowledge across a wide spectrum of geopolitical issues. It offers an interdisciplinary, future-forward education to aspiring journalists, entrepreneurs, analysts, policymakers, diplomats, researchers, and academics to engage with one of the world’s most dynamic geopolitical landscapes.
WHY SPECIALISE IN SOUTH ASIAN GEOPOLITICS?
Home to nearly 2 billion people, South Asia – anchored by India – is emerging as a major global power with growing influence and impact. A deep understanding of this region is essential for navigating the complexities of global geopolitics. As an organising theme, geopolitics is of both contemporary and historical relevance with deep interdisciplinary dimensions. This Master’s programme provides a comprehensive study of South Asia, integrating historical, socio-economic, political, and policy perspectives. Uniquely designed at NUS, it offers students both insider and outsider viewpoints on the region. This programme is curated to provide students with a deep understanding of the political, economic, developmental and ideological dynamics of South Asia, and its position in the evolving global order. As Asia’s global influence increases, such specialised regional knowledge will offer graduates a distinct competitive advantage across diverse sectors.
WHY NUS?
NUS provides a world-class academic environment at the heart of Asia. It offers an ideal setting for studying South Asia, combining its close geographical ties to the region with excellent resource facilities and a strong emphasis on multidisciplinary learning. Singapore’s strategic location and global connectivity make it a natural hub for international learning and professional growth.
The Master’s programme is led by the South Asian Studies Programme, in collaboration with the Institute of South Asian Studies (ISAS) renowned for their research depth and interdisciplinary teaching. Students will have access to top-tier faculty and thought leaders in the field within a globally ranked university. The opportunity to learn South Asian languages (Tamil/Hindi)— would be an added advantage for non-native speakers seeking deeper regional engagement.
WHAT WILL STUDENTS GAIN?
- A structured academic pathway to develop expertise in South Asia and its geopolitical landscape
- Critical insights into regional and global geopolitics, from academic and practitioner perspectives
- Ability to analyse and address geopolitical challenges using interdisciplinary and comparative frameworks
- Enhanced employability in media, management consulting firms, investment firms, diplomacy, think tanks, NGOs, and academia
- Foundation to become lifelong learners and thought leaders in regional and global affair
All students will read two core courses and choose from a wide variety of electives that examine South Asia from historical, political, social, and international relations perspectives.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Candidates seeking admission to the Master of Social Sciences in Geopolitics of South Asia programme should possess the following requirements.
Academic |
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English Language Proficiency |
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PROGRAMME REQUIREMENTS
Mode of Study | Full-time or Part-time
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Duration of Degree | Full-time
Part-time
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Workload per Semester | Full-time
Part-time
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Coursework Requirements | Complete and pass 40 units which include:
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English Language Requirements |
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Graduation Requirements | A student will be recommended for award of degree if he/she has met the following requirements:
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APPLICATION PROCESS
Applications for admission must be submitted online. There is one application period for each academic year.
INTAKE | APPLICATION PERIOD |
Semester 1 (August) |
1 November (in the year preceding the intake) to 31 January (in the same year as the intake) |
For more information on the application process and the supporting documents required, please refer to the Faculty website.
PROGRAMME FEES
The programme fees for the August 2026 intake are as follows:
Tuition Fee | S$38,150 (inclusive of GST)
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Application Fee | S$60 (inclusive of GST)
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Acceptance Fee | S$5,450 (inclusive of GST)
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Miscellaneous Student Fees | As published by NUS Office of the University Registrar
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Singaporeans and Singapore Permanent Residents enrolled in the programme for AY2026/2027 will be able to enjoy a 40% tuition fee rebate.
CONTACT
Please email fasbox58@nus.edu.sg for any enquiries relating to the Master of Social Sciences in Geopolitics of South Asia programme.