Asian Studies
Asian Studies focuses on the history, culture, and societies of Asia. It can include the study of the languages, societies, cultures, histories, economies, and politics of the countries and peoples of Asia. This is an interdisciplinary major, with a strong disciplinary core, for students who want a basic understanding of the background and contemporary aspects of East, Southeast, or South Asia.
Degree Types: Bachelor of Arts, Minor
![Asian Studies BA Asian Studies BA](https://la.psu.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/elementor/thumbs/Asian-Studies-BA-q18myd4lnb5epjryxf28rh68bqx8nd4pdfbg8wd3cg.jpeg)
Explore Interests Related to Asian Studies
Explores Asian cultures, languages, and histories. Equips students to engage in cross-cultural dialogue, advocate for policies promoting cultural understanding, and contribute to justice initiatives involving Asian communities.
Examines the history, culture, and politics of Asia. Prepares students to engage in global diplomatic efforts, contribute to cross-cultural research, and foster cultural understanding through Asian-centered media and international discourse.
Degree Options
Popular Double Majors or Minors
- Chinese
- Japanese
- Korean
About the Program
Why should I pursue this degree?
You might like this program if…
- You are interested in the languages, cultures, histories, or societies of one or more of the countries of Asia.
- You are curious about other parts of the world.
- You want to think contextually about cultures, historical trends, social change, and political structures.
- You want to understand the history of the world as a group of systems and as a single system.
Transferable Skills
- Cross-Cultural Communication
- Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving
- Attention to Detail and Organizational Skills
- Research and Analytical Skills
- Adaptability and Teamwork
Coursework
Opportunities to explore the following topics:
- Monuments of Asia
- Vietnam in War and Peace
- Asian Philosopy
- Government and Politics of East Asia
Out-of-Classroom Experiences
Education Abroad Destinations
China
![_0027_China](https://la.psu.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/01/0027_China-768x480.jpg)
Japan
![_0012_Japan](https://la.psu.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/01/0012_Japan-768x480.jpg)
South Korea
![_0002_South Korea](https://la.psu.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/01/0002_South-Korea-768x480.jpg)
Career Paths
Continuing Education
- Law school
- Graduate school to study history and sociology
Job Titles
- Government Relations Specialist
- International Programs Coordinator
- VP, International Trade Development
- Senior Policy Analyst
- Intelligence Analyst
- Content Designer
- Lawyer
- Professor
Industries
Education (K-12), Higher Education, Recruiting and Human Resources
Employers
- Boeing
- U.S. Navy
- Bank of America
- Universities
- Peace Corps
- U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission
- U.S. Department of Treasury
- JPMorgan Chase & Co.
- Brookings Institute
Have questions about this program?
Future students, contact the Liberal Arts Recruitment Team.
Current students, contact your academic adviser.
This program is housed
in the Department of Asian Studies
at Penn State University Park.