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Humanities & Culture

Department of East Asian Studies

Mark Rowswell is not only a comedy ambassador, he's also an East Asian Studies grad.

Mark Rowswell’s (B.A., 1998) path to fluency in Mandarin was accelerated when, in third year, a professor gave students passages from Chinese newspapers and books to read. Because of his language skills, he was asked to host a television show in China, where he continues to work as an entertainer. See more about Mark here.

What do employers value about Department of East Asian Studies graduates?

Within two years of graduation, 83% of graduates who are in the labour market are employed with a median salary of $48,176/year upon entering the workforce. 64% pursue further post-secondary studies. (Source: StatsCan Career Tool)

your degree after graduation

University of Toronto East Asian Studies alumni most frequently apply their problem solving and communication skills in these industries: 

  • Education 
  • Finance
  • Media and Communication 
  • Research 
  • Marketing and Sales
  • Operations 
  • Administrative 
  • Community and Social Services 
  • Entrepreneurship 
  • Information Technology
  • Government and Cultural Institutions
     

graduate or professional school

An East Asian Studies degree equips students with the critical thinking and research skills for a variety of academic next steps, including graduate programs in:

  • Asian Studies 
  • Anthropology 
  • Sociology
  • Law
  • Journalism
  • Business & Economics
  • Political Science & Policy
  • Education
  • Social Work
  • Information Studies
  • History
  • Literature
     

exploring opportunities while you're a student

Learn About yourself

Register for the Job Shadowing Program to connect with professionals in your career area of interest. During a half or full day job shadowing placement, you’ll begin to clarify your goals and better understand your career options.

Attend an In the Field program to meet professionals working in a variety of occupations within one organization. Prior groups have explored the work environment of analysts and researchers at the Higher Education Quality Council of Ontario (HEQCO).

Find a Work-Study Position and gain paid, on-campus positions that provide you with an opportunity to deepen your knowledge, strengthen your skills and explore how your academic studies translate to career possibilities.

Attend a career workshop or small group conversation to explore career possibilities, understand your skills, and plan for your career or further education. Visit clnx.utoronto.ca for more information.

Connect with Alumni

The Backpack to Briefcase (b2B) program provides opportunities for students and recent graduates, to meet and mingle with alumni, faculty, staff and fellow students from their department or academic unit. Alumni who volunteer for b2B Industry Nights, Career Panels, Speed Networking events and Mentorship Meals, offer guidance, career advice and encouragement to A&S students. By taking part in b2B, students will learn about the array of career possibilities available to them as A&S degree recipients.  

Explore Your Options

While you’re a student, get the support and make the connections you need to transition into your dream career. 

Talk to your professors to better understand and prioritize your opportunities in the context of your discipline.  

Attend socials organized by the East Asian Studies Students' Union to build your network.

Take advantage of opportunities to study abroad through an international internship program, exchange or summer abroad program.

Participate in language and speech contests to improve your understanding and build transferable skills. 

Attend the annual Korean and Japanese Cultural Fairs to add perspective to your studies.