Asian Studies at UNC
Majoring or minoring in Asian Studies prepares students as specialists in Asia. Students take courses in Asian history, languages, and cultures, and become familiarized with Asia as a region, and its interactions with the rest of the world. A degree in Asian Studies prepares students for further studies at the graduate level, and gives graduates an edge for careers in international law, business and commerce, as well as with government or non-government organizations.
Through a program in Asian Studies, students gain proficiency in one or more Asian languages, and develop an understanding of Asian civilizations from past to present. In addition to study of Asian languages and history, Asian Studies students choose from courses in political science, art history, anthropology, women’s studies, film, geography, literature, and philosophy. Asian Studies students learn about traditional and modern pop culture, as well as Asian communities in America.
Students are encouraged to supplement their coursework and gain international living experience by studying abroad with one of UNC’s direct exchange partnerships in China, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, or Thailand. Asian Studies students can also round out their academic training with participation in one of the many Asian cultural clubs at UNC, where they can enjoy cultural activities, and celebrate Asian holidays like the annual UNC Lunar New Year Celebration.
Asian Languages
Contrary to popular belief, becoming proficient in an Asian language is not as difficult as some might think, and with dedication, students can master an Asian language in just a few years. Students in the Asian Studies program will study Chinese or Japanese. For information on the Chinese or Asian Studies programs, contact Michelle Low, the Asian Studies Advisor. For more information about the Japanese program, contact Sumiko Gibson. Both Chinese and Japanese are also available as minors at UNC.
Career and Internship Opportunities in Asian Studies
“What can you do with a major in Asian Studies?"
Graduates of the Asian Studies program are qualified for a variety of careers or graduate studies programs. Students with Asian Studies majors can go on to careers with the US government as a Foreign Service Officer, or work for other governmental agencies, such as the CIA, Immigration and Naturalization Services, etc. Since graduates have a firm foundation in Asian civilizations and languages, many go on to teach languages in US or International schools or work in the private sector, while some move on to non-governmental or non-profit agencies that focus on Asia. Others travel to Asia to teach English or work, and continue improving their language skills before going on to graduate studies in Asian studies, Asian history, Asian languages and literature, anthropology, geography, or international affairs, to name a few.
