South Asia holds a pivotal position in global geopolitics because of its strategic location, vast population, and rich natural resources. Image: 123rf
SOUTH Asia is rising fast. With nearly two billion people – over 700 million who are under 24 years of age – and more than a million new workers joining the job market each month, the region has become a global powerhouse of talent, innovation and consumer energy.
Recognising its growing influence, the National University of Singapore (NUS) is introducing a new Master’s in Geopolitics of South Asia – the first of its kind in South-East Asia.
The one-year Masters by coursework programme provides a structured, intensive learning experience that builds both broad and in-depth understanding of a wide range of the region’s geopolitical issues.
“I think that appreciation of the importance of the South Asian region remains somewhat limited in the South-East Asian space, and we want to address that,” says NUS South Asian Studies Programme (SASP) head, Assoc Prof Rajesh Rai, reflecting on the motivation behind the new programme.
NUS – one of the top universities in the world – brings 25 years of expertise in South Asian Studies to this new Master’s, which combines academic rigour with real-world relevance through a broader, more dynamic coursework approach.
Rai emphasises there is a need for students to grasp the region’s growing importance amid global shifts.
“In today’s context, it’s not enough to have mastery over one specific topic. Students need to understand a wide range of issues that affect the region – and the role South Asia plays on the global stage,” SASP lecturer Dr Rajshree Jetly explains.
She notes that geopolitics, as a field of study, naturally bridges contemporary issues with historical contexts – offering both strong relevance and rich interdisciplinary scope.
“Whatever happens in South Asia has profound global implications – whether in shaping international markets, influencing security dynamics, or informing global policy,” Jetly adds.
The advantage of studying this in Singapore lies in its unique position – close to, yet distinct from, South Asia – which allows NUS to offer objective and nuanced insights into the region’s politics, economics, and contemporary issues.
“This dual insider–outsider perspective is one few universities can match,” says Jetly.
Led by the SASP, the Masters is designed in collaboration with the Institute of South Asian Studies (ISAS) – an autonomous research institute within NUS that also serves as a think tank focusing on South Asian political and economic issues.
Through ISAS, students will gain access to global thought leaders, high-profile visitors and policy discussions that bridge theory with practice – ensuring that learning extends well beyond the classroom.
NUS is also working with a network of local industry and government agency partners to help students build meaningful professional connections.
Students will benefit through exposure to real-world perspectives, industry collaborations and potential internship opportunities after completing the programme.
All of which, Jetly adds, will strengthen the career prospects of students and give them a competitive edge in the global market.
“As businesses increasingly engage with South Asian markets, there will also be a rising demand for experts who can offer informed perspectives on the region.”
As she notes, South Asia’s rising global influence – combined with NUS’s world-class reputation – opens up dynamic career pathways for graduates, spanning diplomacy, journalism, policy, business and academia.
The programme is also designed for a wide range of learners – from recent graduates and aspiring diplomats to policymakers, business leaders and professionals eager to deepen their understanding of South Asia.
Jetly explains that the course offers both academic enrichment and practical, career-ready skills.
Additionally, students will develop practical skills that enable them to analyse and address global challenges such as climate change, migration, economic instability and security threats.
“This approach encourages students to examine global issues through multiple national and geopolitical lenses.
“In doing so, they develop the ability to think critically, conduct comparative analyses, and communicate effectively – all of which are vital skills sought after by employers in academia, policy, media, and international organisations,” she says.
Core modules include subjects that delve into the history and formation of modern South Asia, as well as critical areas that define the political, social and economic contours of the region.
Students can also choose from a range of electives, including topics such as gender and politics, technopolitics, public policy development, and political cinema, among others.
Rai stresses that the programme aims to develop globally minded leaders who are insightful, culturally aware, and strategically astute, with a deep understanding of South Asia and its relevance to regional and global contexts.
“We also want our graduates to combine academic insight with practical skills, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to an increasingly interconnected world,” he adds.
NUS Master’s in Geopolitics of South Asia is set to commence AY2026/2027.
To find out more about this new Master’s programme, visit https://fass.nus.edu.sg/sas/masters-by-coursework/
