Asian History PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships

Students studying a PhD in Asian History have the opportunity to research into the varying and rich history of the Asian continent and its wider influences. The parameters of research may be defined by a particular period, location, theme or case study. Given the vastness of history in Asia, students may find themselves studying anything from religion, gender or literature to diaspora, empire and race. By the end of the PhD you will have produced a dissertation of unique research, contributing to the overall field of Asian History.

What’s it like to do a PhD in Asian History?

PhD students will be expected to locate and engage with a specified range of primary sources. You will then have to contextualise your understanding of these sources in the wider secondary literature. Some popular research topics in Asian History include:

• Asian diaspora
• Asia in a global world
• Gender roles
• Nationhood, empire and dynasties
• The role and development of religions (Buddhism, Islam, Christianity and Hinduism)
• Writing and literature

Most Asian History PhD projects are self-proposed. That means that you’ll identify a gap in the current literature and detail a viable research plan for filling it within the given study period. Your topic of choice will form the basis of your PhD, with the results being written up in a thesis of 75,000 words. Your work will then be assessed and critiqued in an oral viva exam.

There are some opportunities to apply for an advertised PhD project. Often funded by a historical site, archive, or national body, you will be expected to research a particular period, source base or location.

Throughout the PhD you will spend the majority of your time analysing historical documents, writing up your findings and discussing your work with your supervisor. There will be plenty of opportunities to share your research with the wider academic community through conferences and publications.

Depending on your location and availability of sources, you may be required to undertake a research trip. Prospective students should plan for at least one extended trip, though more may be necessary. You will also have to consider any language requirements. If you’re studying foreign-language sources then you might have to dedicate some time to study that language.

Entry requirements

Moat Asian History PhD programmes require applicants to have a Masters degree in a relevant subject, such as History, Politics or Literature. Some institutions may accept students without a postgraduate degree as long as they can demonstrate academic prowess and extensive research experience.

You might also have to prove a level of language proficiency depending on your location of study and source base.

PhD in Asian History funding options

In the UK, most PhDs in Asian History are funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC). The AHRC offers fully-funded studentships which include tuition and a tax-free living cost stipend. Travel expenses for research trips or academic engagement are also usually covered by these studentships. To apply you must have an accepted place at a university. If you’re applying for an advertised project then the funding specifications will be outlined in the project details.

However, funding is very competitive so it’s not uncommon for Asian History students to ‘self-fund’ their PhD. Many manage the financial demands through employment or the UK government’s doctoral loan scheme. There are also many charities and trusts willing to support students with short-term funding for one-off costs such as travel.

PhD in Asian History careers

A PhD in Asian History can prepare you for a career in many industries. Aside from research, academia or teaching, graduates may find themselves working in governmental roles, with global charities, in project management or editing for publishing houses.