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College of Arts & Sciences

East Asian Studies

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Why pursue an East Asian studies degree at North Central College?

East Asia is a vibrant region and hosts one of the largest economies and longest lasting civilizations in the world. East Asian studies helps students to develop the knowledge and language skills needed to work and explore abroad. Understanding East Asia requires appreciation of cultural orientation, tradition and social forces.

At North Central College, you’ll be supported by committed faculty, a well-established language curriculum and a wide range of study abroad opportunities. In this experience-oriented program, you’ll be prepared for career choices in journalism, international business, government, teaching or any job that involves an East Asian economy.

IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN

  • Working in East Asian countries like China and Japan
  • Understanding and analyzing the human experience in East Asia
  • Promoting a humanistic understanding of East Asia’s past and present

then a degree in EAST ASIAN STUDIES might be for you.

Why study East Asian Studies at North Central College?

In the Classroom

Coursework topics:

  • Asian Theatre
  • Buddhism
  • East Asian Economic Development
  • East Asian Film
  • East Asian Literature in Translation
  • East Asian Thought
  • Japanese Culture and Society
  • Japanese History
  • Oriental Brush Painting
  • Religions of China
  • Religions of Japan
  • Traditional and Modern Chinese History

Campus Virtual Tour

Beyond the Classroom

As an East Asian Studies major, you can:

  • Apply for internships and jobs through robust faculty and alumni networks or the Center for Career and Professional Development.
  • Attend social outings with the Japan Club, ASK (Asian Student Konnection) and International Club.
  • Take advantage of extensive library resources on East Asia.
  • Enjoy easy access to cultural destinations like Chicago’s Chinatown.
  • Participate in a May Term trip to Japan or China or the College’s unique China/Japan program.
  • Pursue intensive study abroad programs in Japan, Taiwan, Korea or China.

More Department information

East Asian Studies, General Track, B.A.

East Asian Studies emphasizes a broad interdisciplinary understanding of East Asia at both the regional and national level. The program allows students to select either a general or country-specific emphasis, and provides opportunities for study-abroad in Japan, China and/or South Korea. Graduates of our program are well-positioned to work in East Asia-related fields, and can pursue graduate study in East Asian Studies or other connected programs/disciplines (i.e. History, International Relations, etc).

For additional information and courses in this program, see East Asian Studies.

A minimum of 36 credits, including:

Core Courses

Language

Three semesters of Chinese or Japanese language

History, Religion, Culture and Society

Three courses from one of the following list with at least one at the 300-level:

Electives

Four credits from the following list:

Students must demonstrate elementary competence in a foreign language. For more information, see the B.A. Degree Requirements within the Academic Regulations section of this catalog.

East Asian Studies Minor

For additional information and courses in this program, see East Asian Studies.

A minimum of 24 credit hours, including:

Core Course

Language

Two semesters of Chinese or Japanese language

History, Religion, Culture and Society

Two courses from the following, with at least one at the 300-level:

Electives

Four credits from the following list:

East Asian Studies Internships and Jobs

A North Central education integrates career preparation with rich academic study. Our faculty encourages you to refine and apply your knowledge in an interconnected world. Here you'll learn to think independently and work globally to solve problems and lead.

Graduate Schools

Recent graduates in East Asian studies have been accepted at:

  • Kyoto University, Ph.D. in religious studies
  • University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy
  • University of Washington, Korean studies
  • University of Hawaii, Asian Studies

Careers

Recent graduates in East Asian studies include:

  • English teacher, Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme
  • Non-government organizations
  • Information technology
  • Finance
  • Government
     

Invest in your future

Choosing the right college is a big decision. Don’t make it alone. North Central’s admission and financial aid team is here to help you design a financial aid solution that works best for you and your family.

Merit scholarships, grants, loans, campus employment - these are just some of the resources available to you. Over 95 percent of students and 100 percent of all eligible students receive aid. Let our team partner with you in finding the best value for your education.

Learn more about financial aid and costs for North Central College

Apply to North Central College

The first step to becoming a North Central student is reading the application instructions specific to you. Find out everything you need to know about applying by selecting the group you belong to below.