Asian studies is an interdisciplinary program that offers courses in the humanities and social sciences with a focus on Asia.
Students majoring in Asian studies are required to master at least one Asian language on the advanced-intermediate level. In addition, students should have one semester, summer, or short-term study abroad experience in Asia or an alternative Asian American community experience in the local area, with the permission of the director.
Because the field is vast, each student needs to work closely with the director of the program and a faculty advisor to design an academic plan that meets individual interests and career goals. This plan should have a thematic emphasis or area emphasis, such as history and culture, politics, or East Asia. In consultation with the director of the program and their advisor, students may also develop their own special area of emphasis.
Students must take courses from at least three departments, with no more than 20 credits from any one department. AS 100 is a required course for all major students. Some Freshman Seminar courses may qualify with the approval of the Program Director.
4.00
The coursework introduces students to the artistic and visual traditions from South and East Asia, Africa, Oceania and the Americas. In addition to the material culture of the particular region under study, the coursework will consider socio-political ideals, religious belief systems, and cultural principles that shaped or informed the work and the ideology of civilizations beyond the Western hemisphere. Comparative analysis among non-western and western traditions will be used to critically analyze the salient points of influence, rejection and modifications of aesthetic affinities. Class lectures will be supplemented with museum seminars specifically the rich non-western collections at the MFA, Boston. Guided field trips to the museum will allow students to formally analyze the works of art discussed in lecture and text material.
Occasional
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Cultural Diversity BFA,Asian Studies,Humanities & History,Expanded Classroo
4.00
A chronological survey of South Asian art (2300 BCE - 1750 CE) including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Nepal. Examination of art and architecture from their first and still mysterious beginnings in the Indus Valley, through the great masterpieces of Buddhist and Hindu art to the coming of Islam, including the eclectic culture of the Mughal courts and the golden age of miniature paintings. Consideration is given to the multiple aspects of patronage in Indian culture - religious, political, economic - through case studies of individual works of art and architecture. (Formerly HUM 345)
Humanities & History,Cultural Diversity Opt B,Humanities Literature Requirement,Asian Studies
4.00
An interdisciplinary introduction to Asian Studies will touch upon the history, politics, economics, philosophy, geography, arts, and cultures of Asia. Sample topics include political economy, religious and cultural exchanges, international relations, Asian experience in America, and the role of Asia in the twenty-first century. Students will develop conceptual frameworks for exploring the subjects covered by the Asian Studies curriculum.
Offered Fall Term
Asian Studies,Cultural Diversity Opt B,Humanities & History,Humanities Literature Requirement
4.00
This course focuses on traditional Chinese society from 1800 to 1949, taking up such areas as family and kinship, social mobility, education, economic and social differentiation, community and social life, and popular belief. Examining the practices and ideologies underlying each area will enhance our understanding of the nature of traditional Chinese society, and help explain how elements of Chinese traditional culture contribute to modern Chinese identity and everyday life.
Occasional
4.00
This course facilitates students exposure to Asian American communities and enhances their knowledge of diverse Asian cultures through research projects and service activities or an internship. Students will study under the guidance of the Director of the Major program and/or a faculty member as well as work with a community organization or service agency for a semester. They will engage in specific projects or an internship in collaboration with the assigned organization or agency to understand the cultural values and current issues relating to Asian populations. They will complete required hours as per the arrangement with the site and submit a comprehensive service/research report on their learning process and critical reflection of their experience at the end of the semester.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
Expanded Classroom Requirement
4.00
This is an introductory and interdisciplinary course on Chinese civilization and traditional Chinese literature. It will provide the student with an introduction to the cultural legacy and literature of China from the archaeological origins of Chinese civilization to the period of the mature imperial state in the 11th century (Song Dynasty). The diverse origins of Chinas civilization are stressed as topics in political, social, and economic history are explored, with a focus on developments in language, literature, and art. This course is a good introduction to further study of Chinese history and culture and, in particular, provides a valuable context for themes treated in Modern China.
Alternates Fall & Spring
Asian Studies
4.00
Conducted in a seminar format, we examine the film texts of Wong Kar-wai, Andrew Lau/Alan Mak by focusing on issues such a colonization/decolonization, transnational political economy and global Hollywood, the Greater Chinese Dynasty, diaspora, and postmodern aesthetics.
Occasional
Cultural Diversity Opt B
4.00
Why do so many countries remain so poor? Why have some (e.g. the Asian tigers) grown so rapidly? Why have most of the countries of Eastern Europe and the Former Soviet Union been slow to ignite economic growth? These questions are addressed by looking at domestic factors (government policies, resource endowments) as well as the international environment (mobile investors, international financial institutions). Asks what economic choices these countries face now. Normally offered yearly. Cultural Diversity B
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Social Science,Asian Studies,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
EC 101 and EC 102
4.00
This course examines theories of international trade. The policy implications of each theory are explored and the effect of trade on the welfare of the nation is examined. Also the development of trade blocs and the the political economy of trade are studied. Normally offered every year.
Social Science,Asian Studies,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
ENG 213, ENG 214, ENG 215, ENG 216, ENG 217, or ENG 218
4.00
An introduction to selected Asian-American writers with an emphasis on socio-cultural issues, such as race, gender and ethnicity. Authors include Bulosan, Hwang, Jen, Kingston, Lee, Mukherjee, Odada, and Tan. Cultural Diversity A
Occasional
Cultural Diversity Opt A,Asian Studies
4.00
This course will examine US relations with East Asia through the lens of leading International Relations theories. We will analyze the growing regional influence of China, and will also examine the foreign policies of major regional powers including South and North Korea, Japan, and Taiwan. By exploring the economic and political factors that are working to shape the dynamic East Asian regional order, we will gain an understanding of the challenges faced by the US in this economically and strategically pivotal region.
BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE,Social Science
Junior status or above
4.00
Emphasis on a particular approach to the problems of economic modernization and political development. Historical background; the revolutionary movement; present political structures and current issues. Cultural Diversity B
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Social Science,Asian Studies
4.00
This course focuses on the historical origins, evolution, and current trajectory of the North Korean state. Topics include history, social structure, the interplay of culture and ideology, political economy, humanitarian issues, security, and the politics of North Korean domestic and foreign policy. We will spend considerable time analyzing North Koreas relationship with regional and world powers and examining the origins, history, and implications of their nuclear weapons program. Students will be expected to demonstrate their ability to apply theoretical and historical knowledge toward analyzing the rapidly evolving landscape of contemporary issues related to North Korea.
Social Science
not open to freshmen
4.00
This course explores the political and cultural history of Islam, with emphasis on the contemporary Islamic resurgence in Muslim countries. The origins and causes of this resurgence, its aims, and its effects on domestic, regional, and world politics will be examined. Offered as needed. Cultural Diversity B
Social Science,Cultural Diversity Opt B,Asian Studies
4.00
This class uses a series of films to demonstrate the changes in peoples lives in contemporary China. It focuses on the Reform Era between 1980 and present. The topics include Chinese politics, economic growth, social change, and popular cultures. Cultural Diversity B.
Occasional
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Humanities & History,Asian Studies,Humanities Literature Requirement
4.00
The class examines Japanese history from the beginning of the seventeenth century to the end of the twentieth century. The topics include early modern Japan during the Tokugawa era, Meiji Restoration, Japanese imperialism and World War II, Japans emergence as the second largest economy in the world. Cultural Diversity B
Occasional
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Humanities & History,Asian Studies,Humanities Literature Requirement
4.00
The class discusses the early-modern history of East Asia, specifically China and Japan, in a global context. It examines the difference between East Asia and the West in their transitions to modern society, whether or not there was a great divergence, and if there was one, what was the underpinning dynamic in the process. This comparative approach usually requires the class to read one book (in English) on Chinese or Japanese history and another one on European or global history.
Humanities & History,Asian Studies
4.00
A survey of pre-modern Chinese history from antiquity to the sixteenth century. Topics include: Confucianism; the making of an imperial bureaucratic system; conflicts and interactions among different ethnic groups; the Mongolian Empire; early modern Chinese society. (Formerly HST 131) Cultural Diversity B
Occasional
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Humanities & History,Asian Studies,Humanities Literature Requirement
4.00
A survey of modern Chinese history from the sixteenth century to the present. The class focuses on two major themes. First, we will study the conflict between the modern state and traditional society. We will discuss Chinas turbulent transition from an old empire to the Communist regime, the dynamics behind this transition, and the price that ordinary Chinese people have paid. Second, we will study Chinas interactions with the outside world from the irst Opium War to Chinas entrance to the World Trade Organization. (Formerly HST 132) Cultural Diversity B
Occasional
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Humanities & History,Asian Studies,Humanities Literature Requirement
4.00
An overview of Japanese history from ancient times to the nineteenth century. Topics include imperial Japan, the emergence of the samurai, and Tokugawa society.
Occasional
Humanities & History,Asian Studies,Humanities Literature Requirement
4.00
The exposition and critical evaluation of Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, and Islam. Special attention is given to foundation principles as well as to the similarities and differences of each of these philosophies to basic ideas in Western philosophy. 1 term - 4 credits. Normally offered alternate years. C b
Occasional
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Cultural Diversity BFA,Humanities & History,Humanities Literature Requireme
4.00
An historical survey of Buddhist philosophy. We will explore Buddhist origins, central teachings, devotional and meditational practices, ritual and institutions as developed from classical to modern times. Special attention given to the philosophical diversity of the Buddhist world view. 1 term - 4 credits. Normally offered alternate years. C b
Occasional
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Cultural Diversity BFA,Asian Studies
4.00
Examines theoretical and empirical approaches that provide insight into Asian viewpoints on socialization practices, family systems, health/well-being, cultural traditions/values, and spiritual philosophy/literature. Explores the diversity among Asian cultures in terms of language, history, religion/spiritual faith, and healthcare practices, all of which play a significant role in shaping the psychological characteristics, interpersonal relationships, and work dynamics of Asians and Asian immigrants. Students critically analyze similarities and differences between Asian and Western psychological perspectives of health and work through didactic and experiential learning components. This course fulfills the Cultural Diversity Requirement and may fulfill the Expanded Classroom Requirement. Normally offered alternate years.
Offered Spring Term
Social Science,Asian Studies,Cultural Diversity Opt A
4.00
This course will examine a variety of Eastern religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Confucianism, Taoism, and Shintoism. Possible connections to be explored will be the impact of these traditions on others, such as Pacific Islands and African religion, as well as the growing place of Eastern religion in the West. This course will explore the history and structure of each tradition, while attempting to recognize the similarities and the differences among them. Attention will be given to the reading of original texts when available. Requiring students to observe religious ceremonies will enhance practical understanding of many of the above traditions. Normally offered every year. Cultural Diversity B
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Asian Studies
4.00
Introduces Modern Standard Chinese (Mandarin) with an emphasis on developing conversational skills by using fundamental grammatical patterns and vocabulary in functional contexts. Basic reading and writing (in simplified characters) are also taught.
Offered Fall Term
BA FOREIGN
CHIN 101 or Instructors consent.
4.00
Continuation of Chinese 101 with emphasis on developing basic skills to read and write modern colloquial Chinese. The reading, writing and oral skills will be taught on the basis of fundamental grammatical patterns and vocabulary in context.
Offered Spring Term
BA FOREIGN
CHIN 102 or Instructors consent.
4.00
Emphasis on improving Chinese skills in the areas of speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Expansion of vocabulary and further study of grammar. Discussion of assigned readings primarily in Chinese.
Offered Fall Term
BA FOREIGN
CHIN 201 or Instructors consent.
4.00
Continuation of skills developed in CHIN 201.
Offered Spring Term
BA FOREIGN
4.00
For students with no previous knowledge. An introduction to features of spoken and written Japanese. Stresses grammar, oral performance and simple characters. One language lab session per week.
Offered Fall Term
BA FOREIGN
JPN-101 or Instructors consent
4.00
Continuation of skills developed from JPN 101. Emphasis on active command of spoken Japanese. Improvement in pronunciation and conversational skills. Further development in vocabulary, grammar, reading and writing. One language lab session per week.
Offered Spring Term
BA FOREIGN
To qualify for admittance to the major, students must demonstrate proficiency in one Asian Language at the advanced-intermediate level. This can be fulfilled by successful completion of an Intermediate Level II Asian language course with an average grade of “B” or by passing the same level language test offered by the modern language department.
CHIN 201 or Instructors consent.
4.00
Continuation of skills developed in CHIN 201.
Offered Spring Term
BA FOREIGN
JPN-201 or Instructors consent
4.00
Continuation of skills developed from JPN 201. One language laboratory session per week.
Offered Spring Term
BA FOREIGN
Students must complete either option A or B:
A. A Semester, Summer or Short-Term Study Abroad in Asia (which must bear at least 4 credits)
B. AS 500 Asian American Community Experience (4 credits)
The minor in Asian Studies requires 20 credits selected from the Required Major Course list (see the Major Requirements page). Students must take courses from at least two departments.
To qualify for admittance to the minor, students must demonstrate proficiency in one Asian language at the advanced-elementary level. This can be fulfilled by successful completion of an elementary Level II Asian language course with an average grade of “B” or by passing the same-level language test offered by the modern language department.
CHIN 101 or Instructors consent.
4.00
Continuation of Chinese 101 with emphasis on developing basic skills to read and write modern colloquial Chinese. The reading, writing and oral skills will be taught on the basis of fundamental grammatical patterns and vocabulary in context.
Offered Spring Term
BA FOREIGN
JPN-101 or Instructors consent
4.00
Continuation of skills developed from JPN 101. Emphasis on active command of spoken Japanese. Improvement in pronunciation and conversational skills. Further development in vocabulary, grammar, reading and writing. One language lab session per week.
Offered Spring Term
BA FOREIGN
4.00
An interdisciplinary introduction to Asian Studies will touch upon the history, politics, economics, philosophy, geography, arts, and cultures of Asia. Sample topics include political economy, religious and cultural exchanges, international relations, Asian experience in America, and the role of Asia in the twenty-first century. Students will develop conceptual frameworks for exploring the subjects covered by the Asian Studies curriculum.
Offered Fall Term
Asian Studies,Cultural Diversity Opt B,Humanities & History,Humanities Literature Requirement
4.00
This course focuses on traditional Chinese society from 1800 to 1949, taking up such areas as family and kinship, social mobility, education, economic and social differentiation, community and social life, and popular belief. Examining the practices and ideologies underlying each area will enhance our understanding of the nature of traditional Chinese society, and help explain how elements of Chinese traditional culture contribute to modern Chinese identity and everyday life.
Occasional
4.00
This course facilitates students exposure to Asian American communities and enhances their knowledge of diverse Asian cultures through research projects and service activities or an internship. Students will study under the guidance of the Director of the Major program and/or a faculty member as well as work with a community organization or service agency for a semester. They will engage in specific projects or an internship in collaboration with the assigned organization or agency to understand the cultural values and current issues relating to Asian populations. They will complete required hours as per the arrangement with the site and submit a comprehensive service/research report on their learning process and critical reflection of their experience at the end of the semester.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
Expanded Classroom Requirement
