FAQ Master
General questions
Why should I study Languages and Cultures of Southeast Asia?
Besides imparting intercultural skills, the program focuses on the languages, cultures, histories, and societies of an important, culturally diverse and dynamic Asian region. In accordance with the high academic standards of the University of Hamburg, students receive rigorous training in one of the program’s three areas of concentration: Indonesian and Malay Studies, Thai Studies and Vietnamese Studies. The M.A. prepares students for both academic and practical careers as well as for doctoral programs in Southeast Asian Studies. M.A. graduates of our program will have a profound knowledge of at least one of the taught languages and cultures, and will have been trained in carrying out independent research and applying other critical academic skills.
Why should I study in Hamburg?
Hamburg is the second largest city in Germany and culturally remarkably diverse. Being connected to the whole world through its bustling nautical trade, it provides a stimulating cosmopolitan and international environments for students to study and enjoy the city in their spare time. The University of Hamburg furthermore is one of the most prestigious universities in Germany.
Can I listen in to a lecture now, before I have applied?
Yes, prospective students interested in joining a lecture as a guest are invited to get in touch with the professor in charge of the lecture they are interested in. Guests are very welcome to join in.
Application and begin of studies
How and when do I apply?
There are two application periods for the winter semester starting in October: from February 15th to March 31st and from June 1st to July 15th. In case there are any free places left from the winter semester, there is another application period for the summer semester, starting in April: from December 1st to January 15th. In exceptional cases, applications outside of these periods can be accepted. Please contact the respective program director.
Which formal criteria do I have to meet in order to apply?
The application has to be submitted online. Download the form at www.stine-uni-hamburg.de under "Bewerbung".
These following documents are also required:
- Curriculum Vitae
- Motivation letter
- Legally attested certificate of your university degree
- Transcript of Records
- Language skills: Minimum of 25 ECTS either in Bahasa Indonesia, Thai or Vietnamese;
Native speakers are exempt from this - Evidence for proficiency in English (equivalent to B2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR);
English native speakers are exempt from this
What language requirements do I have to fulfil to apply?
Each applicant must submit evidence for proficiency in English (equivalent to B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Applicants must also provide evidence of a minimum of 25 ECTS in Bahasa Indonesia (for Indonesian and Malay Studies), Thai (for Thai Studies), or Vietnamese (for Vietnamese Studies). Native speakers of English do not have to submit proof for their English proficiency and native speakers of the three Southeast Asian languages do not need to submit proof of their proficiency in the respective Southeast Asian language either.
Do I need any prior knowledge in the field before taking up these studies?
Prior knowledge in the field is not that necessary. However, being highly interested in historical, cultural-political topics concerning the Southeast Asian areas can be beneficial for this program.
Do I have to pay a tuition fee?
There is no tuition fee. However, every student has to pay a university fee for each semester. This is to cover administrative costs etc. A ticket for public transport in Hamburg is also included in this fee.
Study organization
How many semesters do I study?
The standard period of study is four semesters, i.e. two years.
What is the language of instruction?
The language of instruction is English. However, students must have a good command of at least one language of their specialization in order to be able to take part in the courses.
Who are my contacts for questions or problems?
Depending on the matter, the study office, the lecturers, professors, the student councils, the degree program coordinators and students from higher semesters can help you.
What types of exams will there be?
Most of the examinations are either written exams, oral exams or in the form of term papers.
Course content
What exactly do you learn in the degree programme and what is the focus?
The International Master in Southeast Asian Studies offers a diverse program exploring the languages and cultures of three regions: Indonesian and Malay Studies, Thai Studies (also including Lao Studies), and Vietnamese Studies. The first year of the program comprises eight compulsory modules and a range of electives at the University of Hamburg, while the second year contains a semester abroad and a semester to write the concluding thesis. The modules of the first year explore Southeast Asian Literature and Media in the first semester and Southeast Asian Culture and Society in the second. The module Theories and Methods, that spans both of the first two semesters, aims to forge a connection between teaching and research of the Department and to provide the students with insights into a number of different disciplines and research methodologies.
Students choose one of the three regional specializations (Indonesian/Malay, Thai, or Vietnamese Studies), all of which are related to the research profiles of the Asia Africa Institute and the Department of the Languages and Cultures of Southeast Asia. Our research spectrum includes such diverse fields as manuscript cultures, modern literature, history, religion and society.
Semester abroad
Do I have to do a semester abroad?
Yes, a semester abroad is compulsory. In justified exceptional cases, for example if the student comes from Southeast Asia, an application for an exemption from the semester abroad can be granted. In that case, additional courses have to be taken in Hamburg.
In which countries can I do the semester abroad?
It is intended that the semester abroad will be completed in the country that is assigned to the focus. (I.e. for Thai Studies: Thailand, for Austronesian Studies: Indonesia or Malaysia, for Vietnam Studies: Vietnam.) There are many partner universities in Southeast Asia. Moreover, you can study at partner universities in Europe, i.e. at Leiden University. You can always ask our professors for study abroad opportunities. Exceptions are possible.
Does the semester abroad cost anything?
If the semester abroad is completed at a partner university of the University of Hamburg or the department, you usually only continue to pay the semester fees to the University of Hamburg and no additional tuition fees at the partner university. Living costs abroad, as well as expenses for flights, visa and insurance have to be financed by yourself. Foreign student loans and scholarships can help here.
Does the semester abroad belong to the standard period of study or do you have to apply for a semester on leave?
The semester abroad is included in the four semesters of standard study time; there is no need to apply for a semester of leave.
Alongside my studies
Do I get a semester ticket for local public transport?
Yes, a semester ticket for the HVV is included in the semester fee.
Does the Asia-Africa Institute have its own library?
Yes, the AAI has its own library with a large selection of literature on Southeast Asia (in both European and Asian languages).
What options do I have to volunteer at the university?
There are many ways to get involved while studying. On the one hand there are the student councils, which deal with the interests of the students; on the other hand, there are countless other university groups on all sorts of topics in which one can contribute.
Can I take German language classes?
As the language of instruction of the degree is English, no German language knowledge is mandatory. However, speaking German will make living in Hamburg much easier. Students can register for German classes to improve their language skills at the university. This can be done via Stine, in the same manner students also register for their regular courses.
Corona
Can I also study during lockdown?
Yes, the University of Hamburg is currently teaching online. Many seminars and lectures take place via Zoom. For information on a specific class, please contact the lecturer of that class.
Please note that the guidelines are regularly updated with regard to the current situation. Kindly refer to the university website to get information on the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on students.
How can I access materials from the library if I am not yet in Hamburg at the start of my studies because of corona?
During a lockdown, you can use a large part of the library's holdings from home. There are various options for this, such as the campus delivery service and interlibrary loan. In addition, many books are permanently available as e-media. These options are always adapted to the current situation and are best found on the library website.
Perspectives after the master's
Can I do a doctorate afterwards?
Yes, this master’s degree qualifies students to pursue a doctorate afterwards. It is also possible to do the PhD in Hamburg, directly in the Department of Southeast Asian Studies.
In which areas can I work later with this master’s degree? Which professions have graduates of the degree chosen?
With this degree there are many career prospects open to you. That depends to a large extent on your courses and personal focus. Possible fields of work are: development cooperation, NGOs, economy and trade, journalism, tourism, science and research ...
Living in Hamburg
What kinds of housing are available for students and how can I find an accommodation?
German as well as international students may apply for a room in a student dormitory or look for private residences. For dormitories, please contact the Studierendenwerk Hamburg. Private accommodation can be found on various sites on the internet. If you don’t want to live alone and are searching for good company in a foreign city, you can also search for a room in a shared apartment.
Where and how do I have to register my address in Hamburg (Meldebescheinigung)?
After moving to Hamburg, students must register their new address with the local authorities to obtain a proof of residence (Meldebescheinigung). This is needed to do a variety of things such as opening a bank account, getting health insurance, applying for a residence permit, and other administrative affairs. Remember to bring a letter of confirmation from your landlord/-lady (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung).
How can I apply for health insurance and approximately how much is that going to cost?
Every person living in Germany must have health insurance. There are no exemptions from this rule for neither international nor national students. If you already have health insurance (statutory or private), it might be valid during your stay in Germany. If not, you can apply for health insurance in Germany. The student health insurance fee per month is roughly around 100,- €, depending on the health insurance provider for every student of 25 years of age. This insurance is still valid even if you study abroad for a semester. Unfortunately, if you are over 30 years old, the student health insurance becomes invalid and you have to pay the full insurance fee (which might be between 170-250,-€ per month depending on the insurance provider) unless this is covered by a scholarship or a part time job.
Where can I find help in a medical emergency?
In case of an acute medical emergency call 112.
How many working hours are allowed for student part-time jobs?
There are many opportunities for students to find jobs, for example at the university, in supermarkets, restaurants, etc. However, students are only allowed to work 120 full days or 240 half days per year. Despite this, you can also study part-time and work more hours, but this might extend your studying period in Germany.
How can I find and apply for a scholarship?
There are several scholarships for M.A. students. Check the university’s website for more information. However, most of these scholarships require high grades and are very competitive. It is strongly recommended to apply for a scholarship before starting your studies in order to avoid financial hardships.
Further questions
I have more questions. Could I talk to a M.A. student who is currently studying in Hamburg?
Yes, if you have a question you can contact students via mail: thaiistik.fsr@gmail.com (Thai Studies), viet.fsr@googlemail.com (Vietnamese Studies), fsr_austronesistik@yahoo.de (Austronesian Studies).