
The Bachelor of Science in East Asian Studies is a four-year interdisciplinary program that explores the languages, cultures, histories, and societies of East Asia, including China, Japan, and Korea. Students develop proficiency in East Asian languages while studying literature, philosophy, politics, and social structures, gaining a nuanced understanding of the region’s cultural and historical complexity. The program emphasizes critical thinking, cross-cultural literacy, and analytical skills, enabling students to engage thoughtfully with the region’s social, political, and economic developments. By combining language acquisition with cultural, historical, and political study, students gain a comprehensive perspective on East Asia’s influence in global contexts.
Throughout the program, students participate in language-intensive courses, research projects, and experiential learning opportunities, including study abroad programs. They examine classical and contemporary texts, explore media and cultural production, and analyze the region’s political and economic systems. The curriculum fosters interdisciplinary research, analytical reasoning, and communication skills, preparing graduates to apply their knowledge in professional, academic, and international settings. By integrating linguistic mastery with cultural understanding, the program equips students to navigate and influence cross-cultural and global environments.
Year 1 – Foundations in East Asian Studies
• Introduction to East Asian History and Culture
• Elementary Language I & II (Chinese, Japanese, or Korean)
• Academic Writing and Research
• Survey of East Asian Literature
Year 2 – Core Disciplines
• Intermediate Language I & II
• Philosophy and Religion in East Asia
• East Asian Politics and Society
• Research Methods in Social Sciences
Year 3 – Advanced Language and Cultural Studies
• Advanced Language and Conversation
• Modern and Classical Literature of East Asia
• Elective: Film, Media, or Gender Studies
• Comparative Regional Studies
Year 4 – Integration and Capstone
• Senior Seminar in East Asian Studies
• Independent Research Project or Thesis
• Advanced Elective: Global Policy, Economy, or Art
• Optional Study Abroad / Internship
Graduates of East Asian Studies are prepared for careers requiring language proficiency, cultural literacy, and analytical expertise, including international business, diplomacy, education, translation and interpretation, journalism, policy analysis, and cultural programming. They may also pursue advanced studies in East Asian studies, international relations, law, political science, or global business, expanding professional and academic opportunities. Employers value graduates’ ability to navigate complex cultural contexts, communicate effectively across languages, and apply regional knowledge to professional, academic, and global initiatives.
This program is ideal for students passionate about East Asian languages, cultures, and societies, offering a rigorous interdisciplinary curriculum that combines language mastery with historical, cultural, and political studies. Emory University provides mentorship, research opportunities, and immersive experiences such as study abroad programs to enhance practical learning. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and cross-cultural communication, preparing graduates to excel in global careers, contribute meaningfully to international organizations, and engage thoughtfully with contemporary social, political, and cultural issues in East Asia and beyond.
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 404 727 6123
Email: contentedit@emory.edu
Address: University of Emory, 201 Dowman Drive, Atlanta, GA 30322, United States