Program at a Glance

The Asia-Pacific region is one of the most dynamic and diverse political and economic power centers in the world. Thammasat University’s Master of Arts in Asia-Pacific Studies (MAPS) is the first graduate program which examines the entire Asia-Pacific region in all its complexity.

The Asia-Pacific Region has become increasingly important in a relatively short period of time. The region now accounts for more than half of global economic activity. Trade and development has given rise to increased international economic cooperation, ranging from small regional forums to large-scale collaborations such as APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation) and the upcoming TPP (Trans-Pacific Partnership). Politically, this region is characterized by the interplay of regional powers with the overlapping interests of the dominant world superpowers – China, India, and the United States. Regional conflicts are becoming more intense and extremely complex. In addition, this is one of the most culturally diverse regions in the world.

MAPS is an interdisciplinary graduate program that is designed for internationally-focused students who wish to obtain an in-depth understanding of this fascinating and occasionally turbulent part of the world through multi-faceted and inter-disciplinary lenses. Our graduates go on to pursue careers in academia, business, government, and with a wide-range of organizations – local and international.

Our program first provides a foundation in the traditional disciplines of international law, international relations and politics, and economics to prepare students from diverse backgrounds for advanced interdisciplinary courses. These advanced courses offer a more in-depth examination of questions and problems specific to the Asia-Pacific region. An International Conference on Asia-Pacific Studies will be organized annually allowing interactive exchange of knowledge among students – in house and from other institutions – and world-renowned scholars in related areas.

Thailand is an excellent choice for the study the Asia-Pacific region. Situated in the heart of Southeast Asia, the country’s strategic location opens the door to one of the most dynamic regions in the world, ASEAN and the Greater Mekong sub-region. With numerous international agencies such as the UN based here, MAPS students will have the opportunity to learn from experts in the field. On top of that, Thailand is a place where you can enjoy a wonderful lifestyle with affordable tuition fees and living expenses at Thammasat University, one of the top universities in ASEAN.

Join the MAPS program

The MAPS program is offered as a collaboration between the College of Interdisciplinary Studies and the Thammasat Institute for the Study of International Cooperation, Thammasat University.

Key Features of the MAPS Program

The MAPS program is a multidisciplinary program for specific area studies -the Asia Pacific Region- with specific focus on international economics, international relations, and international law.

MAPS is the first international program offered in Thailand that provides excellent opportunities for students to explore the Asia-Pacific Region and connect students with other international students and experts in fields related to the Asia-Pacific region.

The program is complementary to other area study programs particularly with the Master’s Degree in ASEAN Studies offered by Pridi Panomyong International College, Thammasat University which also places emphasize on political, economics, and socio-cultural aspects.

Program Structure

Note:

For APS681 Research Methodology, students are required to write up a Working paper and prepare and proposal for APS 800 Thesis.

Students are required to attend the thesis seminar and thesis examination that the program organizes outside Bangkok.

Students are required to present their thesis in the annual graduate seminar in their last semester after their thesis examination and are required to submit their presentation to the conference proceedings.

Career Prospects

The MAPS program can enhance your career and improve your employment prospects in government, private, and academic sectors. Knowledge and understanding of the Asia-Pacific region will increase opportunities for those who work or want to work in:

• Government sectors, including the ministries of foreign affairs, commerce, industry, finance, and education
• Private sectors, including multinational enterprises based in Thailand, and Thai companies who operate or want to operate in Asia-Pacific Region
• Academic sectors, including students who want to continue their further study in area studies or who want to learn more about the Asia-Pacific region

Scholarship Opportunity

MAPS Program is endorsed with the scholarship from various organizations. Our main sponsors for international students include Thailand International Cooperation Agency (TICA), Thammasat University, PTT Public Company Limited, The Government Savings Bank, and EXIM Bank. A number of scholarships are offered on merit-based basis. Currently, there are two types of scholarship available for International students and one for Thai students.

1. MAPS –Royal Thai Government Scholarship supported by Thailand International Cooperation Agency (TICA). Applicants from the following countries are entitled to apply.
   • Cambodia, Indonesia, Myanmar, Lao PDR, and Vietnam
   • Availability: 6-8 awards (2018/19 Intake)
   Status: Open for Application until end of February 2016. Interest applicants should apply directly to the Royal Thai Embassy in their respective countries.
   
   
2. Thammasat University Scholarship supported by Thammasat University. Applicants from all over the world, with particular focus in ASEAN countries, are welcome to apply.
   • Availability: 10-12 awards (2018/19 Intake)
   • Applicants must apply directly to the Program. The program will nominate applicants to Thammasat University. However, applicants should know thatthe process will take some time and the announcement usually approach the beginning of the first semester due to the screening process
   Status: Open for Application. Please visit Admission Section for more information.
   
   

For all scholarships recipients, terms and Conditions may apply differently from one scholarship to another. For those who are eligible to apply for both TICA and TU scholarships (Cambodia, Indonesia, Myanmar, Lao PDR, Vietnam), you can request for more information via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

Student Exchange Opportunity

Student Exchange program to Japan is available for self-funded students. Exchange program may differ from year to year. Term and Conditions may apply.