There’s no question about the influence Asia has had on world history, as the birthplace of four major religions, written language, cartography and everything from gunpowder to paper. This vast region is home to 57 percent of the world’s population, and its economies represent approximately one-third of the World Gross National Product. The impact Asia will have on the future is incalculable.
Union’s Asian Studies program focuses on the language, culture and art of Asia, with emphasis on China and Japan. Our incredibly diverse faculty members offer courses in many disciplines across the spectrum of the humanities and social sciences – contributing their expertise and passions in everything from music and art history to economics and political science.
Students take a series of courses that teach both social scientific and humanistic ways of viewing and analyzing the world. They also are able to develop their individual interests by concentrating on courses that explore a related theme, such as ancient Chinese civilizations, Japan or Asia as a global force. In all, there are more than 70 courses to choose from, enough to keep our students curious and engaged from the moment they set foot on campus until they graduate.
Asian Studies intersects with many different disciplines. With their acquired depth and breadth of knowledge, our students pursue a range of independent projects, research and theses. They work closely with their professors in an atmosphere of collaboration and personal exploration.
Off-campus opportunities also abound. Union terms abroad are offered in China (Shanghai) Japan (Osaka), Vietnam and Cambodia, with mini-terms in Bali, China (Tianjin), India and Thailand. Students’ unparalleled experiences in these countries are a highlight of their undergraduate education.
The Asian Studies major at Union leads to a Bachelor of Arts degree. Our students are well prepared for a world and marketplace in which knowledge about Asia is critical. Graduates have gone on to advanced study and to careers in the arts, business, education, government service, journalism and law.
