COURSE CURRICULUM

The Pacific Asia Studies major requires students to complete 36 units of coursework designed to provide an interdisciplinary understanding of the cultures, histories, and political systems of Asian societies along the Pacific Rim. The curriculum begins with 15 units of core requirements that introduce students to key themes in Asian art, history, culture, and global developments. Students take courses such as Traditional Asian Art or Modern and Contemporary Asian Art, which explore artistic traditions and cultural expressions across Asia. In addition, courses such as Asian Civilizations and Arts and Ideas of Asia examine the philosophical, religious, and intellectual traditions that have shaped Asian societies from ancient to modern times. Students also complete a course addressing contemporary regional developments, such as Modernity and Globalization in Asia or a seminar focusing on modern interpretations of Asian history. A course in Asian politics or World Music of Asia further broadens students’ understanding of the political systems, cultural heritage, and international influences that shape the region.In addition to the core curriculum, students must complete 12 units within a selected regional concentration. The available concentrations include Japanese Studies, Chinese Studies, Korean Studies, and South and Southeast Asian Studies. Each concentration allows students to explore the historical development, social structures, and cultural traditions of a specific region in greater depth. For example, students in the Korean Studies concentration may take courses such as History of Modern Korea, Contemporary Korean Culture, Korean Development and Behavior, Education and Communication in Korean Society, and Art of Korea. These courses provide students with detailed knowledge of Korea’s historical transformation, cultural identity, and social institutions.Students must also complete 9 units of elective coursework selected from three different thematic groups. These groups include courses focusing on Japan, China, Korea, South and Southeast Asia, Asian American studies, Pan-Asian topics, advanced language courses, and fieldwork or internship opportunities. This structure encourages students to explore multiple regional perspectives and interdisciplinary themes. Students are not allowed to choose electives from the same group as their selected concentration, ensuring that they gain exposure to other areas of Asia.An important component of the program is the language proficiency requirement. Students must demonstrate proficiency equivalent to four semesters of an Asian language such as Mandarin Chinese, Japanese, Korean, or Punjabi. This requirement may be fulfilled through coursework or by passing a language proficiency examination administered by the Department of Foreign Languages. Language training strengthens students’ ability to understand cultural contexts and communicate effectively within Asian societies. In addition to major requirements, students must complete 34 units of general education courses that develop communication, analytical reasoning, scientific knowledge, and cultural awareness, ensuring a well-rounded undergraduate education.