PhD Program

The department accepts applications for its doctoral degree program (PhD). The department only offers a terminal master’s degree (MA) for the Teaching Asian Languages MA Program. Students interested in a MA degree in Asian Languages and Cultures only should apply to the East Asian Studies Interdepartmental Program, which is housed in the International Institute at UCLA.

Students who are interested in pursuing doctoral level work are encouraged first to contact the relevant faculty members or the Director of Graduate Studies before submitting an application to the Graduate Division at UCLA.

Admission is very competitive. Decisions on admission are handled by the department, with final approval by the Graduate Division. There is funding available through the department for a limited pool of successful applicants, though all applicants are encouraged to apply to external fellowship sources as well.