COURSE CURRICULUM

The Pacific Asia Studies major requires students to complete a total of 36 units designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the cultures, histories, and political systems of Asian societies along the Pacific Rim. The program begins with 15 units of core courses that establish a strong foundation in Asian history, politics, and cultural traditions. Students study subjects such as Traditional Asian Art or Modern and Contemporary Asian Art, Asian Civilizations, and Arts and Ideas of Asia. These courses introduce students to the historical development, artistic traditions, and philosophical ideas that have shaped Asian societies. In addition, students complete a course focusing on modern developments in the region, such as Modernity and Globalization in Asia or a seminar examining recent interpretations of Asian history. A course in Asian Politics further helps students understand political structures, governance, and international relations within the region.Students must also complete 12 units within a chosen regional concentration. Available concentrations include Japanese Studies, Chinese Studies, Korean Studies, and South and Southeast Asian Studies. Each concentration provides specialized knowledge about the selected region through courses that explore its history, culture, philosophy, and social development. For example, the Chinese Studies concentration may include courses such as Chinese Civilization, Chinese Philosophy and Religion, Survey of Chinese Literature, and historical studies of China from ancient to modern times. These concentration courses allow students to develop deeper expertise in a particular cultural and geographic area of Pacific Asia.In addition to the core and concentration courses, students must complete 9 units of electives chosen from three different regional or thematic groups. These groups include Japan, China, Korea, South and Southeast Asia, Asian American studies, Pan-Asian topics, advanced language study, and fieldwork or internships. This requirement encourages students to explore multiple regions or themes and gain a broader interdisciplinary understanding of Asia. Elective courses may cover topics such as Asian literature, religion, cinema, migration, politics, and cultural traditions.A key component of the program is the language proficiency requirement. Students must demonstrate proficiency equivalent to four semesters of an Asian language appropriate to their concentration, such as Mandarin Chinese, Japanese, Korean, or Punjabi. Language study enhances students’ cultural understanding and supports deeper engagement with primary sources and regional communication. In addition to the major requirements, students must complete general education courses that strengthen skills in communication, analytical reasoning, and scientific literacy, ensuring a well-rounded academic experience.