Major
Major Requirements
The major in Asian studies offers (1) strong training in at least one Asian language, (2) knowledge of the histories and cultures of the societies in which that language is used, (3) sense of how academic disciplines contribute to interdisciplinary study, and (4) knowledge of Asia beyond the primary language and civilization focused on in (1) and (2) above. The requirements for the major are derived from these objectives.
Students must complete 40 credits as specified below. Up to 8 of these credits may be taken pass/no pass. All other courses used to satisfy major requirements must be taken for letter grades and passed with grades of C- or better. All courses must be chosen from the 300-level or above. Students should consult their advisers in planning programs of study.
1. History (12 credits). Three upper-division history courses in the chosen civilization or religion.
2. Electives (16 credits). Four courses, chosen in consultation
with an adviser.
3. Discipline (12 credits). Three courses in one discipline other
than history or language.
4. Regional Breadth (8 credits). From the courses chosen in categories
2 and 3 above, at least two courses must be in areas outside the student's
primary focus. For example, if the primary focus is Japan, the 8 credits
must deal with China, Southeast Asia, Pacific Islands or South Asia.
5. Seminar (4 credits). ASIA 350: What is Asia? In years when ASIA 350 is not offered this seminar can be substituted by one 400-level course pertaining
to the chosen civilization.
Language Requirement. Students who major in Asian studies must complete two years of an Asian language: Chinese and Japanese are taught through the fourth year in the Department of East Asian Languages and Literatures. Languages must be taken for letter grades and passed with grades of C- or better. Under special circumstances, student may demonstrate an equivalent competence by examination or by work in advanced language courses.
East Asian Courses
Southeast Asian Courses