Major overview
Worldwide, Korean is the fastest-growing language among non-native speakers. With Korea's increasing economic influence and the global popularity of K-pop and K-dramas, the rising interest in Korean culture is no surprise.
In this major, you'll combines practical language learning with a deeper understanding of South Korean society, politics, history and culture, as well as North Korean society and culture.
You do not need prior knowledge of the Korean language, or any other Asian language, to study this major.
Korean Studies is offered as part of the Bachelor of Arts. You may choose to broaden your knowledge and skills with a second major, or select elective units or a specialisation that supports your career goals.
Korean Studies specialisation
If you are studying another major in any of Curtin’s study areas, adding a specialisation (comprising four units) in Korean Studies will give you a solid foundation in understanding Korean society, language and culture to succeed in a workplace that requires strong intercultural skills. If you're considering studying science, engineering, health sciences or education, adding intercultural and linguistic competencies through a specialisation in Korean Studies will give you an advantage in global job markets.
Why study at Curtin?
International study opportunities
You can complete some of your course at one of Curtin’s partner institutions in Korea.
Premier research hub
Curtin hosts the Korea Research Centre, which is Western Australia’s premier hub for research and student-centred projects in Korean studies and research.
Business links
Curtin has strong links with the Australia–Korea business community, which helps provide opportunities for industry engagement and internships.
How to study this major
You can study this major as part of any of the degrees below. A major is a set of eight or more units you complete as part of a degree, including at least two in your final year. The units may vary depending on the degree you choose.
Degrees
Career outcomes
As one of the world's leading economies and major cultural influences, expertise in Korean language and Korean studies offers exciting opportunities for graduates interested in international careers.
Career examples
- Language specialist
- Communications, marketing and media consultant
- Diplomat
- Foreign policy consultant / researcher
- Educator
- Travel and tourism business development consultant
- Exports consultant
Industries
- Global business and trade
- International relations
- Cultural enterprise and development
- Resources and energy
- Non-government organisations (NGOs)
- Public service
Why study at Curtin?
International study opportunities
You can complete some of your course at one of Curtin’s partner institutions in Korea.
Premier research hub
Curtin hosts the Korea Research Centre, which is Western Australia’s premier hub for research and student-centred projects in Korean studies and research.
Business links
Curtin has strong links with the Australia–Korea business community, which helps provide opportunities for industry engagement and internships.
Major structure
What you’ll learn
In this course you’ll explore Korean society, culture, history, politics and international relations and gain strong competency in the Korean language. You’ll also delve into some of the most intriguing societal and cultural issues of the Korean peninsula, ranging from South Korea–North Korea relations to the success of Hallyu, which refers to the rising wave of popularity of South Korean culture.
The course will help you engage comfortably in diverse cultural environments – an attribute that is increasingly vital as cultures and industries become more globally entwined.
Importantly, the language learning incorporates in-class activities that have a strong focus on active learning and developing communication skills in real-world contexts.
Detailed course structure and unit information
For detailed information and course structure, visit our Handbook.
How to apply
This major is part of a degree. To apply, choose the degree you want to study and review its entry requirements. Then, prepare any required documents and submit your application before the deadline for your chosen intake.
After you receive and accept your offer, you can enrol in this major either at the start of your degree or later in your studies, depending on your course structure.
Choose your degree
To study this major, you'll need to apply one of the degrees listed below.Degrees
For full entry requirements, fees and information for international students, visit the course page.
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