Course Overview

The South Asian Languages and Civilizations program at the University of Chicago offers comprehensive study of the languages, cultures, histories, and civilizations of South Asia. Spanning undergraduate (BA), master's (MA), and doctoral (PhD) levels, the program focuses on languages such as Hindi, Urdu, Tamil, Sanskrit, and Bengali, alongside in-depth exploration of South Asian literature, religion, and social structures. A distinctive feature is the emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches, combining linguistic training with historical and cultural analysis.

Career Prospects

Graduates are well-prepared for careers in academia, cultural organizations, international development, diplomacy, and translation. The program equips students with critical language skills and cultural expertise, opening opportunities in government roles, NGOs, and global business sectors focusing on South Asia.

Key Faculty and Staff

Notable faculty include experts in South Asian studies such as Whitney Cox (Tamil and Sanskrit literature), Muzaffar Alam (South Asian history and Persian), and Ulrike Stark (Hindi literature and print culture), who contribute to the program's strong academic reputation.

Unique Facilities and Partnerships

The University of Chicago hosts the South Asia Language Resource Center, providing extensive resources for language learning and research. Additionally, partnerships with institutions in South Asia and access to archival collections enhance research opportunities for students.