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Explore a region of inspiration and influence.
The scope of Asian Studies is broad, covering some of the world’s oldest cultures. Through hands-on learning and study abroad opportunities, you’ll explore firsthand the history, politics, economics, and cultures of the eastern, southeastern, and southern regions of Asia.
Leading to a bachelor of arts degree, the Asian Studies major is multidisciplinary, challenging your fluency in the social sciences, humanities, arts, and business. From immersing yourself in post-World War II Japanese literature and film to studying the rapid economic growth of China, you’ll learn about the traditions, languages, and historical contexts that shape emerging Asian countries — and will impact the entire world.
Asian Studies
JAPN 280
Since its defeat in WWII, Japan has moved from atomic desert to economic powerhouse. Explore how the work of Japanese artists has reflected memories of post-war trauma and engaged issues of national identity.
GEOG 107
PLSWhy are many Asian countries (think China, India, and Japan) major players in global affairs? Through readings and class discussions, you’ll explore the reasons behind their rapid economic rise and sudden crises.
HIST 286
The ubiquitous presence of living Vietnam War veterans is a reminder of a defining moment in American history. Dig into the history and culture of Vietnam and its fraught relationships with France and the U.S.
ID 235
Illegal trafficking — people, animals, and controlled substances — continues to thrive around the globe. Explore the opportunities and dilemmas faced by those who study and try to eliminate these shadow economies.
Twelve courses are required to complete the Asian studies major. You’ll choose a specialization in one of three areas: China, Japan, or the combined region of East, South, and Southeast Asia, and complete a minor (or a second major) in another department that complements your area of focus.
Attaining a level of functional literacy in an Asian language relevant to your area of specialization is a key component of the Asian studies major. You accomplish this by taking language courses, and by studying abroad for at least one semester — a full year is strongly recommended — through one of four programs:
Asian studies is one of seven undergraduate programs affiliated with Clark’s Center for Gender, Race, and Area Studies, a community of faculty and students from a variety of disciplines who study diverse, disadvantaged, or marginalized societies and populations, with an emphasis on promoting social justice.
Dr. Lee Gurel ’48 Asian Studies Award
The Dr. Lee Gurel ’48 Asian Studies Award is given to an outstanding graduating senior for academic excellence in Asian studies.
Skills you will learn include:
During your junior year, you might be accepted into the Asian studies honors program. Joining the program means you’ll work closely with a professor to create a thesis on a topic of your choice. Examples of recent honors thesis topics are:
Building your foundation
We structure our curriculum around Liberal Education and Effective Practice (LEEP), which connects classroom learning with action through world and workplace experiences.
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“I wanted to be open to learning all that I could about a different and unique way of life. It’s part of my Chinese-American identity that I never had the opportunity to fully explore and learn about before.”
Etta Scott-Smith ’18
Minor in Asian studies
