Asian Languages and Cultures
The Asian Languages and Cultures program at Northwestern University offers students an immersive, interdisciplinary journey into the linguistic, literary, and cultural landscapes of East, South, and Southeast Asia. Through intensive language instruction combined with the study of history, religion, philosophy, cinema, literature, and society, the program encourages students to explore the diversity and depth of Asian civilizations across time and space. Whether focusing on Chinese, Japanese, or Korean, students develop proficiency in an Asian language while also examining the intellectual traditions and artistic expressions that define these cultural spheres. The curriculum fosters cross-cultural understanding by analyzing how Asia has evolved internally and interacted globally, helping students situate Asian cultures within broader historical and contemporary frameworks.
The program also promotes critical inquiry and independent research, empowering students to engage with complex questions about identity, nationalism, modernization, and global exchange. Faculty expertise spans multiple disciplines, allowing for an integrative approach that supports both language acquisition and deep cultural analysis. Students are encouraged to study abroad, participate in cultural events, and undertake original research or translation projects. As they progress through the program, they build strong analytical, communicative, and intercultural skills, preparing them to think globally and contribute thoughtfully to academic, professional, and civic conversations. This degree not only strengthens students’ intellectual versatility but also cultivates a long-term appreciation for the cultural richness and contemporary relevance of Asia.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Asian Languages and Cultures
- Degree Type: S. Bachelor
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 03 January 2026
- Location: Northwestern University, United States
- Field of Study: Language Studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Language Foundations and Cultural Introduction
• Elementary Language (Chinese, Japanese, or Korean) I & II
• Introduction to Asian Civilizations
• Writing and Research in Cultural Studies
• Themes in Asian Literature and Society
Year 2 – Intermediate Language and Regional Perspectives
• Intermediate Language I & II
• Asian Religions and Philosophies
• East Asia in Global History
• Film, Media, and Modernity in Asia
Year 3 – Advanced Topics and Independent Inquiry
• Advanced Language Study and Conversation
• Literature and Identity in Modern Asia
• Colonialism, Gender, and Cultural Transformation
• Research Methods in Asian Studies
Year 4 – Specialization, Research, and Capstone
• Seminar in Contemporary Asian Societies
• Independent Study or Translation Project
• Senior Thesis or Capstone Research
• Topics in Diaspora and Global Asia
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Asian Languages and Cultures program are uniquely equipped to pursue careers in a wide variety of globally oriented sectors that require cultural insight, language proficiency, and critical thinking. Alumni often work in international relations, translation and interpretation, education, journalism, or nonprofit and humanitarian organizations, especially those focused on East or Southeast Asia. Others enter the business world, leveraging their regional expertise in roles involving international marketing, consulting, or global trade. The program also prepares students for graduate studies in fields such as Asian studies, comparative literature, international development, public policy, or linguistics. With their training in both language and cultural analysis, graduates are adept at navigating multicultural environments and contributing to organizations that value global awareness and cross-cultural dialogue. Their skill set is highly adaptable and increasingly relevant in today’s interconnected world, making them strong candidates for both professional success and academic advancement.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing this program means engaging with the intellectual and cultural richness of Asia through a curriculum that bridges language, humanities, and social sciences. Students benefit from individualized instruction, interdisciplinary coursework, and access to faculty with diverse scholarly backgrounds. Opportunities for study abroad, research, and campus cultural engagement enhance classroom learning, allowing students to experience firsthand the dynamic realities of Asian societies. The program cultivates a learning environment that supports linguistic mastery, cultural literacy, and critical global thinking, empowering students to become informed citizens and versatile professionals. Whether seeking to understand Asia's past or engage with its present, students graduate with the tools and perspective needed to thrive in a multicultural and interconnected global context.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 312 555 2040
Email: admissions@northwestern.edu
Address: University of Northwestern, 633 Clark Street, Evanston, IL 60208, United States
