Asian Studies contributes to developing a full and accurate account of world cultures, national and ethnic identity formation, societies and religious traditions. It also examines the particular ways Asian political, historical, religious and cultural developments help to articulate their local interests and our interrelated global citizenry.
This minor is an excellent springboard from which to launch a meaningful vocation in fields where in-depth knowledge of the socio-historical and cultural contexts of Asian ideas and institutions are essential. This program will offer students analytical paradigms, interpretative tools and critical thinking skills – all while encouraging a lifelong pursuit of strategies for community empowerment, engagement and social change.
Students will integrate both social scientific and humanistic disciplines, gaining both breadth and depth as they engage in the study of particular Asian areas. The Asian Studies minor is a cross-cultural and cross-disciplinary minor program led by four Asianist faculty in religious studies, history, art history and political science. The primary areas of study will be Korea, China, Japan, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Tibetan cultural area, and Bhutan. The program also boasts a broad range of additional associated faculty members in biology, communication, business management, foreign language, music and English disciplines.
Advisory Committee
- Jugdep S. Chima, Assistant Professor of Political Science
- Lisa Bixenstine Safford, Professor of Art History, Chair of Art Department
- Merose Hwang, Acting Coordinator of Asian Studies Minor, Assistant Professor of History
- Kerry Martin Skora, Professor and Chair of Religious Studies, Director of Hiram-Bhutan Exchange Program
