College of Arts and Humanities
Asian Studies
Bachelor of Arts | Major
Bachelor of Arts in Asian Studies
A degree in Asian Studies opens doors to the diverse landscapes of Asia, from the towering Himalayas to the bustling streets of Tokyo.
Discover the intricacies of Asian languages, religions, politics, and arts through dynamic classes that foster a global perspective. Join us and gain a deeper understanding of Asia's contributions to the world.
Questions? Contact Us.
Asian Studies Contact
You Belong Here
What You'll Study
Academic Catalog | Asian Studies Website
Required Courses
- AST 102 - Introduction to Asian Studies Credits: (5)
- AST 401 - Asian Studies Capstone Credits: (3)
First-year Chinese
- CHIN 151 - First-year Chinese Credits: (5)
- CHIN 152 - First-year Chinese Credits: (5)
- CHIN 153 - First-year Chinese Credits: (5)
OR First-year Japanese
- JAPN 151 - First-year Japanese Credits: (5)
- JAPN 152 - First-year Japanese Credits: (5)
- JAPN 153 - First-year Japanese Credits: (5)
- KRN 151 - Elementary Korean I Credits: (5)
- KRN 152 - Elementary Korean II Credits: (5)
- KRN 153 - Elementary Korean III Credits: (5)
Department-Approved Electives
Choose a total of nine courses from the following list with a minimum of one course from each of the three groups. For students with second majors, elective courses may not be chosen from that major.
Social Sciences
- ANTH 344 - Cultures of Asia Credits: (4)
- ANTH 345 - Cultures of Southeast Asia and Oceania Credits: (4)
- AST 310 - Japan Today Credits: (3)
- AST 333 - Southeast Asia and Its Diasporas Credits: (5)
- AST 348 - Contemporary China Credits: (4)
- AST 350 - Korea Now Credits: (5)
- AST 378 - Islam and Asia Credits: (5)
- GEOG 375 - Geography of Asia Credits: (4)
Aesthetic Experience
In the case of second year languages, students may choose only one language.
- AST 301 - Chinese Literature in Translation Credits: (5)
- CHIN 251 - Second-year Chinese Credits: (5)
- CHIN 252 - Second-year Chinese Credits: (5)
- CHIN 253 - Second-year Chinese Credits: (5)
- ENG 333 - Asian American Literature and Cultures Credits: (5)
- JAPN 251 - Second-year Japanese Credits: (5)
- JAPN 252 - Second-year Japanese Credits: (5)
- JAPN 253 - Second-year Japanese Credits: (5)
- KRN 251 - Intermediate Korean I Credits: (5)
- KRN 252 - Intermediate Korean II Credits: (5)
- KRN 253 - Intermediate Korean III Credits: (5)
- KRN 311 - Korean Cinema and Visual Culture Credits: (5)
Humanities
- HIST 380 - Modern East Asia Credits: (5)
- HIST 383 - East Asian Civilization Credits: (5)
- HIST 468 - Modern Japanese History: Tradition and Change Credits: (5)
- HIST 477 - Vietnam: Revolution in Full Circle Credits: (5)
- HIST 479 - History of Korea Credits: (5)
- HIST 483 - Modern China Credits: (5)
- HIST 485 - Trauma, History, and Memory in East Asia Credits: (5)
- PHIL 345 - Philosophies of China and Japan Credits: (5)
- PHIL 346 - Philosophies of India Credits: (5)
- RELS 301 - The Daoist Tradition Credits: (5)
- RELS 303 - Buddhist Thought and Practice Credits: (5)
- RELS 350 - Korean Religion and Philosophy Credits: (5)
- RELS 351 - Religions of China and Japan Credits: (5)
Total Credits: 62-65
Global Opportunities
Take advantage of CWU’s exchange programs with several Asian schools, offering unique experiences to immerse in different cultures and languages.
High Impact Practices
Engage in community-based learning and collaborative projects, such as tours of cultural institutions like the Wing Luke Museum, enhancing real-world understanding and application of knowledge.
Expert Faculty
Learn from faculty with diverse expertise from eleven departments, covering a wide range of research interests and providing a rich educational experience.
Research Excellence
Gain recognition through participation in CWU’s Symposium of University Research and Creative Expressions, where you can showcase research and receive awards.
Apply
Discover how to apply to your program of choice at Central.
Financial Aid
Our Financial Aid staff are here to help you navigate financial aid.
Student Life
Pursue your interests in a supportive community. Learn more.
Visit
The best way to discover what makes CWU so special is to experience it yourself.
Alumni Network
Become part of a large network of professionals who work in various industries across the globe.
Abroad
Faculty encourage studying abroad and support CWU’s exchange programs that offer you the opportunity to experience new cultures, learn new languages, and expand your global network.
Events
Participate in various campus events organized in collaboration with student organizations, such as Lunar New Year festivals.
Why Study Asian Studies at Central?
- Experience a comprehensive curriculum that combines an introduction to Asian Studies language courses and elective courses across the Humanities, Social Sciences, and Aesthetic Experiences.
- Study a wide range of topics, including the Geography of Asia, Contemporary China, Korean Cinema and Culture, and East Asian Civilization, for a deep understanding of contemporary Asia.
- Benefit from faculty dedicated to student success, encouraging participation in study abroad programs and providing guidance for research projects.
Outcomes and Opportunities
International Relations Specialist
Cultural Liaison
Foreign Service Officer
Educator/Teacher
Nonprofit Program Coordinator