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Asia Pacific Studies

Asian architectureWith nearly half of the world’s population living in East, Southeast, and South Asia, the importance of this immense and varied region cannot be overstated. More and more Americans are discovering the rich culture and history of the Asian people. Asians have made a major contribution to the world's literature, art, religion, and philosophy, and are increasingly important in international relations, business, and economics.

Non-majors who wish to increase their knowledge about Asian peoples will find courses available in the Asia Pacific Studies undergraduate program.

Program Overview

Preparation for the major requires that the student take two classes in Asian studies or the history of Asian heritage or philosophy of values; and two classes from determined areas in anthropology, economics, geography and political science. Competency in a foreign language, preferably Asian, is required.

The upper-division curriculum is designed to enhance the student's understanding of issues that affect Asian society by taking classes in several disciplines. Students will benefit from diverse points of view in such an interdisciplinary exposure. Courses are offered in such fields as the arts, anthropology, comparative literature, economics, history, linguistics, philosophy, political science, religious studies, and women's studies. Courses in Asian studies help to integrate the knowledge gained from these diverse fields.

Special Features

  • Evening classes, for both undergraduates and graduates, are regularly scheduled for those unable to attend during the day.
  • The foreign language laboratory is modern, fully equipped, and available to students of Chinese (Mandarin) and Japanese.
  • Overseas study: Student and faculty exchange programs operate with a number of universities in China and Japan.
  • The Asian Studies Club is a student group that provides opportunities for social interchange and sponsors such activities as films and talks by visiting scholars.
  • The China Studies Institute fosters campus and community involvement with "China" in the widest sense, encompassing the People's Republic of China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Southeast Asian Chinese communities, and the Chinese-American experience. It supports research and instructional programs at San Diego State University relating to China and supervises faculty and student exchange programs with China while seeking public and private sources of support for its various activities.

Career Opportunities

Bonzai treeThe Asian studies program seeks to provide a background for students planning to enter business, the academic environment, government, or community service wherever the knowledge of Asia and Asians is needed. Students in the major develop an understanding of cultural heritage, societies, language, and Special Forces. Areas of special interest may be pursued in depth.

To further explore career options in this field, visit the Career Services Web site.

General Catalog

You can view more complete information regarding the Asia Pacific Studies program in the General Catalog. All students are responsible for reading and knowing the information pertinent to their areas of study available in the General Catalog. It contains requirements for all academic majors, course descriptions, policies, and regulations governing progress at the university. Catalogs are distributed at all New Student Orientation programs. To order a Catalog, call (619) 594-7535.

Contact Information

Mailing address:

Asia Pacific Studies Department
College of Arts and Letters
San Diego State University
5500 Campanile Drive
San Diego, CA 92182-6042

E-mail: mcastane@mail.sdsu.edu
Telephone: (619) 594-0931
Fax: (619) 594-0257
Office location: Arts and Letters 473
Office hours: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.