Research Papers and MA Degree
All students, including those already holding an MA, write a research paper to be completed by the end of the third semester. Students who enter the program without an MA in East Asian Languages and Cultures from Columbia University should apply to receive the MA degree upon completion of this paper (which will count as the MA thesis, 25 to 30 pages in length) and course requirements. Any student who has already received an MA in East Asian Languages and Cultures from Columbia University is exempt from having to apply for another MA from us, as well as from the first research paper requirement. However, two additional papers must be completed by all students by the time of the oral examination: one paper based on research in primary sources, and one paper outside the student’s primary specialization to be chosen in consultation with, and submitted to, the advisor.
This is done by completing the following two steps:
- Apply for the MA degree with the Registrar by November 1.
- Submit the completed, typed MA Degree Requirements Checklist for PhD Candidates form, signed by your advisor along with a copy of your Columbia academic transcript (unofficial or official) to the Academic Coordinator.
