Students, who have successfully completed the MAS coursework component, will prepare a 24-unit 10,000-15,000 word long research essay.  Preparation for this essay is expected to commence in the second semester with completion by the end of February in the following year. This involves conducting original research and developing an argument for an interpretation or re-interpretation of a significant topic. Students are expected to demonstrate a capacity for research using primary source material in an Asian language and present a well-argued and fully supported coherent piece of work. Students select their topics in consultation with the Graduate Academic Adviser and are assigned an academic supervisor.

Permission of Prescribed Authority (students are expected to gain a Distinction average in the coursework component of their award)