National University of Singapore
Master of Social Sciences in Geopolitics of South Asia
Singapore, Singapore
Master degree
DURATION
3 years
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time, Part time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
14 Feb 2026*
EARLIEST START DATE
Aug 2026
TUITION FEES
SGD 38,150 **
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
* opens from 01 November 2025
** inclusive of GST | for both full-time and part-time irrespective of nationality
Why specialise in South Asian Geopolitics
Home to nearly 2 billion people, South Asia – anchored by India – is emerging as a major global power with growing influence and impact. A deep understanding of this region is essential for navigating the complexities of global geopolitics. As an organising theme, geopolitics is of both contemporary and historical relevance with deep interdisciplinary dimensions. This Master’s programme provides a comprehensive study of South Asia, integrating historical, socio-economic, political, and policy perspectives. Uniquely designed at NUS, it offers students both insider and outsider viewpoints on the region. This programme is curated to provide students with a deep understanding of the political, economic, developmental and ideological dynamics of South Asia, and its position in the evolving global order. As Asia’s global influence increases, such specialised regional knowledge will offer graduates a distinct competitive advantage across diverse sectors.
Why NUS?
NUS provides a world-class academic environment at the heart of Asia. It offers an ideal setting for studying South Asia, combining its close geographical ties to the region with excellent resource facilities and a strong emphasis on multidisciplinary learning. Singapore’s strategic location and global connectivity make it a natural hub for international learning and professional growth.
The Master’s programme is led by the South Asian Studies Programme, in collaboration with the Institute of South Asian Studies (ISAS) renowned for their research depth and interdisciplinary teaching. Students will have access to top-tier faculty and thought leaders in the field within a globally ranked university. The opportunity to learn South Asian languages (Tamil/Hindi)— would be an added advantage for non-native speakers seeking deeper regional engagement.
Financial assistance is available in the form of the following:
| FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE | ELIGIBILITY | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| NUS Master's Degree by Coursework Tuition Fee Rebate | All Singapore Citizens and Singapore Permanent Residents (Non-NUS Alumni) | 10% tuition fee rebate |
| NUS Master's Degree by Coursework Tuition Fee Rebate | All NUS Alumni | 20% tuition fee rebate |
| NUS Master's Degree by Coursework Enhanced Tuition Fee Rebate | All Singapore Citizens and Singapore Permanent Residents | 40% tuition fee rebate (Only applicable from AY2024/2025 to AY2026/2027) |
Students may enjoy only one form of financial assistance. The Tuition Fee Rebate is not stackable with the Enhanced Tuition Fee Rebate, or other rebates. Should a student qualify for more than one rebate, only the higher rebate will be applicable.
Programme Requirements
Coursework Requirements
Complete and pass 40 units which include:
Core Courses
- SNG5101 The Making of Modern South Asia (4 units)
- SNG5102 Introduction to the Geopolitics of South Asia (4 units)
Electives
- A maximum of two (2) SN courses at Level 4000 (4 units each) OR one (1) SN course at Level 4000 (4 units) and one (1) Tamil or Hindi language course offered by the Centre for Language Studies (only for non-native speakers of the language) (4 units)
- A maximum of four (4) courses offered by other departments at Level 5000/6000 subject to approval by both departments (max 16 units)
- The remaining courses must be SNG courses (min 8 units), which may include SNG5301 Thesis (only for students with a minimum GPA of 4.20)
English Language Requirements
- Students may be required to take the Diagnostic English Test (DET) to determine their English proficiency (selected students will be notified in their offer of admission letter)
- Depending on their DET results, students may be required to take Graduate English Course(s) or be exempted from taking the course(s) altogether
- Students who are required to take the Graduate English Course(s) must obtain at least grade 'C' in the course(s) at intermediate level
- Graduate English Course(s) are not counted towards the 40 units required for the coursework requirements
Graduation Requirements
A student will be recommended for award of degree if he/she has met the following requirements:
- Completed and passed 40 units (refer to coursework requirements above);
- Obtained a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.00 for the relevant courses;
- Where applicable, obtained at least grade 'C' in Graduate English Course(s) (refer to English Language requirement above).


