Program Structure

MAPS Program Overview

The MAPS program is designed to equip students with in-depth knowledge of futures studies and Asia-Pacific affairs, along with strategic foresight skills to navigate regional and global transformations. The program integrates academic knowledge with practical applications, enabling students to become visionary leaders who drive sustainable social development. Key areas of study include geopolitics, economics, technological advancements, demographic shifts, and environmental sustainability within the Asia-Pacific region. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, digital literacy, and innovation, preparing students to analyze emerging trends and develop forward-looking strategies. The MAPS program fosters global collaboration through research, academic conferences, and exchange programs, connecting students with scholars and professionals across the region. By combining interdisciplinary knowledge, policy analysis, and real-world applications, MAPS graduates are well-prepared to contribute to regional and global development in an era of rapid change.

Field of Study

Program Information

Length Approx. 24 months full-time / 4 full semesters and 1 summer session
Medium of Instruction English language
Class Size 20 students
Campus

Most courses are taught at Thammasat University, Rangsit Campus

Program Requirements

The program lasts approximately 24 months (four semesters and one summer semester session) depending on number of public holiday in Thailand each ear, full-time, and requires the completion of 36 units.

  • Plan 1 Academic
    Thesis only
    Core subject (not counted as total credits)         9           Credits
    Thesis                                                           36           Credits

  • Study subjects and do a thesis
    Required subjects                                           12           Credits
    Thesis                                                           24           Credits

Course Syllabus / Course Description

 

Thesis only

Basic elective courses Students can study basic elective courses at the same time as registering for the thesis. Some courses may be exempted, but must be approved by the advisor and the students must achieve a grade of P (pass)

APS501                    Experiential Learning and External Engagement 1     

APS502                    Experiential Learning and External Engagement 2

APS503                    Experiential Learning and External Engagement 3       

APS803                   Thesis

Studying courses and doing a thesis

Required courses: Academic Plan 1 students study courses and do a thesis. They must study all 4 required courses, totaling 12 credits, as follows:

APS600                   Foundation and Futures of Asia-Pacific Region

APS601                   Principles of Foresight

APS602                   Research Methodology

APS710                   Seminar on International Strategy and Policy Implications

APS802                   Thesis

Click here to find out about our course description

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.