In this concentration, you study Chinese and Japanese language and East Asian literature, history, music, philosophy, political science, and religion. You take classes in other disciplines, do an interdisciplinary research project during your senior year, and participate, if you wish, in off-campus study in China, Japan, or Taiwan. As an East Asian studies concentrator, you may go on to graduate school or a career in in business, public service, law, teaching, research, and more.
East Asian Studies
Three Reasons to Explore East Asian Studies
Interdisciplinary Options
Explore a variety of subjects from many points of view
In the East Asian Studies Concentration, you’ll study Chinese and Japanese language and East Asian art, literature, history, music, theatre, philosophy, political science, and religion. You’ll do an interdisciplinary research project as a senior, and have the chance to participate in off-campus study in China, Japan, or Taiwan.
Liberal Arts Tradition
A humanistic approach creates opportunities for personal growth
Consistent with 51²è¹İapp’s liberal arts curriculum, you’ll gain a broad humanistic understanding of East Asia and gain knowledge and appreciation of the cultural orientations, historical practices, and social forces that have shaped its diverse cultures and societies. By considering how the peoples of this region see the world, you’ll develop comparative analysis skills that will contribute to your own personal and professional development.
Postgraduate Preparation
Hone the skills you’ll need for success
You’ll develop skills that are vital for your career or postgraduate education, such as effective communication, social interaction, and presentation. More important, however, the diverse social and cultural structures and history of the East Asian region expand students’ horizons, shedding light on new perspectives, cultivating problem-solving skills, and nurturing critical reasoning.
Featured Course
Come for the Food Stay for the Conversation
East Asian Studies 195: Food in East Asia is a gateway course that will open your eyes to East Asia’s culture and more.
Come for the Food — Stay for the Conversation
EAS 195 provides a foundation for the East Asian studies concentration, while also helping you develop skills that can be a stepping stone to higher learning.
Gates Lecturer: Michael Puett, Harvard University
Gates Lecturer: Michael Puett, Harvard University
Michael Puett will present two lectures: “Ritual, Sincerity, and Human Flourishing: What Chinese Philosophers can Teach Us About the Good Life†and “Creating Worlds: Imagination and Interpretation in Classical China.â€
Academics
The Linguistic Structure of Japanese Baseball Chants
World-renowned phonologist Armin Mester will present work he has been developing with collaborators that seeks to explain the complex sound patterns in adapting a batter’s name for use in…
Contact Information
Phone
641-269-3173
Humanities and Social Studies Center
1226 Park St.
51²è¹İapp, IA 50112
United States