Oriental Studies – Indian Studies
|
Oriental Studies – Indian Studies is a program for those passionate about the languages, history, and culture of India and all of South Asia! The Faculty of Oriental Studies at the University of Warsaw boasts nearly 90 years of experience in teaching about the cultures and languages of the Orient and Africa, including the languages of South Asia (mainly Sanskrit, Hindi, Bengali, and Tamil). This is confirmed by the establishment of the unique Oriental Studies – Indology program. The curriculum is based on many years of experience and practice in teaching and researching topics related to historical and contemporary India and other South Asian countries (including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal). The lecturers are specialists—often the only ones in Poland—in various issues related to this region, conducting scientific research supported by numerous publications in both Polish and foreign publications.
Oriental Studies – Indian Studies provide comprehensive knowledge about India and other South Asian countries, covering linguistic, cultural, historical, and social aspects. Here are the key thematic areas that will introduce you to the fascinating world of India and all of South Asia:
• Indian languages – you will graduate with knowledge of two Indian languages (students starting in 2025 will learn Hindi and Bengali);
• Society and culture – you will learn about social changes, the situation of women, art, media, and many other topics that will help you understand contemporary India;
• History, politics, and economy of India – you will understand the key processes that have shaped India and other South Asian countries from ancient times to the present.
The skills and competencies you will acquire in the Oriental Studies – Indian Studies program:
• Linguistic proficiency – reading, writing, and speaking in South Asian languages.
• Intercultural communication – understanding cultural differences and the ability to build relationships.
• Interpretation of cultural, social, and political phenomena – for example, analyzing the influence of religion on literature and society; the impact of colonialism on contemporary South Asia.
• Critical thinking – analyzing media messages, source materials, and scientific works.
• Adaptation to work in an international environment – for example, in diplomacy, business, or international organizations.
Where can you find a job after completing your studies?
Oriental Studies – Indian Studies program opens doors to various career paths, especially if you combine your knowledge with additional skills (e.g., language, business, translation). After studying Indology, you can work, for example:
• in diplomacy and international organizations (Ministry of Foreign Affairs, think tanks, and research institutes);
• in tourism (tour guide) and culture (film industry, museums, and cultural institutions);
• in translation and media, as well as in business, international trade, education, and NGOs.
Oriental Studies – Indian Studies program is part of the „Integrated Teaching Development Program – ZIP 2.0”, and new students will benefit from a modern study program and additional development opportunities within their studies. The “Integrated Teaching Development Program – ZIP 2.0” implemented by the University of Warsaw since January 1, 2025, is co-financed by the European Social Fund under the European Funds for Social Development Program 2021-2027 (FERS) (contract number: FERS.01.05-IP.08-0365/23-00).
More information about the ZIP 2.0 Programme: www.zip2.uw.edu.pl
