Apply now for the 2026-2027 school year!
Deadline: Monday of Week 2 of Fall Quarter
Mandatory Meeting for Students: Week 3 of Fall Quarter
Why Do Departmental Honors?
- Spend 3 quarters researching a topic you are passionate about
- Receive individual writing mentorship from a UCLA faculty member
- Strengthen research skills for graduate school and career
About
The Departmental Honors program offers highly motivated students in Asian Studies the opportunity to design and conduct their own independent research under the guidance of a faculty adviser. The program consists of three courses — International and Area Studies 198A, 198B, 198C — culminating in an honors thesis.
Departmental Honors and Highest Honors are recorded on the final transcript and diploma after students successfully complete the program. Please see "Guidelines" below for official requirements.
Eligibility
To enter the departmental honors program, students must:
- have completed all preparation for the major requirements with a 3.5 grade-point average,
- have a 3.5 GPA in all upper division coursework for the major,
- secure a faculty member to supervise their honors thesis, and
- formally submit an application to the honors program.
*Students are encouraged to apply in the Spring of their Junior year to begin their thesis in the Fall. In some cases, students may begin their thesis mid-year. Please consult with an advisor regarding your options.
Application Form & Guidelines and Student Handbook
Sample Honors Theses
Next Steps
- If you have additional questions, consult with one of our advisors.
- In Spring, attend our annual Research Workshop to prepare you to start your research in the Fall.
- Attend an online or in-person library research workshop/tutorial on narrowing down your topic, finding sources, organizing information, etc.
- Attend events during Undergraduate Research Week (annually in May) to gain inspiration from peers and learn about new opportunities with research.
Writing Assistance Resources
