Co-ordinator:  Edward Y. J. Chung

Asia is the home of the most ancient and longest-lived civilizations the world has witnessed and of most of the world’s present population. Moreover, recent history would be impossible to write without frequent reference to Asia. Many of the momentous events of modern times can be evoked by the names of Asian countries: Japan, China, Korea, Vietnam, India, Pakistan, Southeast Asian countries, and Middle Eastern countries. The resolution of many of today’s pressing issues requires an understanding of the needs and interests of the Asian peoples.

REQUIREMENTS FOR A MINOR IN ASIAN STUDIES

A minor in Asian Studies consists of twenty-one (21) semester hours of credit taken from the list of approved courses. Either Asian Studies 2010 or 2020 is compulsory for the Minor. At least three semester hours of credit must be taken from any two of the four groups of Asian Studies electives. Students must take at least six semester hours of elective credit outside of their major area of study.

ASIAN STUDIES CORE COURSES

2010 INTRODUCTION TO WEST ASIA
This course is an historical introduction to the peoples and cultures of West Asia. It explores the major cultural, intellectual, institutional, social, and religious features of the Middle East, central Asia, and the Indian subcontinent, covering each region’s traditions and historical development. The course also deals with modernization and the impact of Western ideas, values, and institutions on modern West Asia. This is a required course for the Minor in Asian Studies.
Cross-listed with History 2910.
Three hours a week

2020 INTRODUCTION TO EAST ASIA
This course is an historical introduction to the peoples and cultures of East Asia. It explores the major cultural, intellectual, institutional, social, and religious features of China, Japan, and Korea, covering each region’s traditions and modern developments. This course also introduces Taiwan, Hong Kong, and the impact of Western ideas and institutions on modern East Asia. This is a required course for the Minor in Asian Studies.
Cross-listed with History 2920.
Three hours a week

2090 SPECIAL TOPICS
Creation of a course code for special topics offered by Asian Studies at the 2000 level.

3090 SPECIAL TOPICS
Creation of a course code for special topics offered by Asian Studies at the 3000 level.

4090 SPECIAL TOPICS
Creation of a course code for special topics offered by Asian Studies at the 4000 level.

4510-4520 DIRECTED STUDIES
These courses may be offered to meet particular student needs or take advantage of special faculty expertise.
Three hours a week per course

NOTE: Directed Studies courses from other disciplines with an Asian focus may be accepted for credit towards the Minor with the approval of the Co-ordinator of Asian Studies. (See Academic Regulation 9 for Regulations Governing Directed Studies.)

ASIAN LANGUAGE COURSES

1010 INTRODUCTION TO [A SELECTED LANGUAGE] I
This course is intended for students with no proficiency in the language. This course provides an introduction to the language in question, through the study of pronunciation, vocabulary and grammar. It includes numerous oral drills, frequent written exercises, short oral presentations and simple readings.
Cross-listed with Modern Languages 1010.
Three hours a week

1020 INTRODUCTION TO [A SELECTED LANGUAGE] II
This course is a continuation of 1010. It provides further study of vocabulary and grammar and introduces aspects of civilization.
Cross-listed with Modern Languages 1020.
Three hours a week

Language Courses (see above 1010 and 1020)

Peoples and Cultures
Sociology/Anthropology 2120 – Peoples of South Asia

Religion and the Arts
Religious Studies 2210 – Buddhism East and West
Religious Studies 2420 – The Hindu Religious Tradition
Religious Studies 2510 – Japanese Religion and Culture
Religious Studies 2610 – Religion and Philosophy in China
Religious Studies 3210 – Women in Eastern Religions

History and Politics
Political Science 3430 – Comparative Politics of South Asia
Political Science 3630 – Comparative Politics of the Middle East

PREREQUISITES: The Departments of Political Science, Religious Studies, and Sociology/Anthropology accept Asian Studies 2010/2020 as substitute prerequisites for any of their courses on this list.