Undergraduate Program

What does it have to offer you?

Diversity

Asian Studies (ASAN) is concerned with the people and countries in the broad arc of Asia extending from Afghanistan in the west to China, Japan and Korea in the east and including the Philippines and other islands and peninsulas of Southeast Asia to the south. Most students focus on one of the following countries and regions: China, Japan, Korea, the Philippines, South Asia, and Southeast Asia. All students are encouraged to study the language of that country or region up to and beyond the second-year level.

Choice

The program offers a broad background in traditional and contemporary Asian cultures, emphasizing an interdisciplinary approach. You can take not only Asian Studies courses, but also other Asia-related courses drawn from various disciplines including anthropology, art, economics, geography, history, linguistics, literature, music, philosophy, political science, religion, sociology, theater and dance, and urban and regional planning.

Flexibility

You have the opportunity to create a unique program of study tailored to your particular interests. The undergraduate advisor will assist you to design your program with a wide array of Asian Studies and Asia-related courses. For instance, you may concentrate on Japan by taking courses in the arts and humanities. Or you may study Southeast Asia with a focus on the social sciences. The possibilities are almost endless.

Opportunity

Students are encouraged to participate in study abroad programs to enhance their language skills and immerse themselves in the cultures of their interest. The University of Hawai'i at Manoa Study Abroad Center sponsors several study abroad programs in Asia and makes it easy to earn University of Hawai'i credits. Other programs for studying in Asian countries can be arranged with the assistance of the faculty and the Asian Studies Advisor. These courses may also be used to fulfill your degree requirements.