The Bachelor of Religions (Asian Societies) program aims to meet an increasing student interest in the study of religion in its spiritual, social and political dimensions. Religion lies at the heart of life in much of Asia and a detailed understanding of the region's many faiths is essential in order to conduct business and establish closer relations with the region. The current world situation will also inspire interest in this area.

The degree structure provides firstly, for intensive study in regional religions and related subject areas such as the sociology, culture and politics of targeted countries or, more broadly, the region. Secondly, Asian language training to the level of ?intermediate? competence is required. Finally, there is elective freedom to complement the core subject material with further study in ?religion and society? (or related areas), or further language study or study in a relevant Major from another area of the university. Courses selected for this proposed program are expected to come predominantly from existing offerings in the Faculty of Asian Studies and the Faculty of Arts, though the elective area allows the flexibility of selections from elsewhere in the university or from other universities.

Normal completion time for the degree is three years. The structure features: ten courses (60 units) in religion and related subjects, including methodology and anthropology; a four course sequence in an Asian language (24 units); thereafter, students are free to take a further ten courses (60 units), which may include a further major in a relevant disciplinary area.