Asian Studies Major

Our programs advance understanding of the increasingly powerful countries of Asia by focusing not only on the structures of society - its histories, laws, economies, and governments - but also on the religious, philosophical, artistic, and intellectual foundations for these structures.

We emphasize the relationship between natural and man-made environments, as well as the USF’s commitment to social justice, ethics, and human rights.

Program Learning Outcomes

Students will:

Articulate fundamental issues and themes for the study and understanding of Asian cultures and societies
Analyze both a specific region of Asia and an Asia-related topic using interdisciplinary perspectives and methods, including information in either Chinese, Japanese, or Tagalog
Demonstrate understanding of how topics related to social justice such as human rights, environmental sustainability, and ethical consideration impact both people and policy within Asian societies

Major Requirements (40 units)

All courses used to satisfy major requirements must be taken for letter grades and passed with grades of C or better.

Gateway Courses (16 units)

Students take one Gateway course from each of the following areas at the very beginning of their degree program. These gateway courses may “double-count” to meet other University requirements. Two of these gateway courses must be completed before taking ANST 300.

History Gateway Courses (4 units)

Philosophy or Religious Studies Gateway Courses (4 units)

Politics Gateway Courses (4 units)

POLS 369 - Asia Advocacy/Activism

Art or Literature Courses Gateway Courses (4 units)

Asian Studies Proseminar (4 units)

This course is required for all majors.

ANST 300 - Asia: Pasts & Futures

Electives (16 units)

Four courses, chosen in consultation with an adviser, will help students focus on and develop intermediate expertise in particular regions, countries, or topics. The major encourages a multi-disciplinary approach to the student’s specific area of interest.