Asian Studies

Asian Studies at Carleton promotes a wide variety of courses and programs aimed at appreciating and understanding the richness, variety and values of past and present Asian cultures. We concentrate on three regions: East Asia (China, Korea, and Japan), Inner Asia (Tibet, former Soviet Central Asia, and Mongolia), and South Asia (India, Pakistan, Nepal, and Sri Lanka). The program consists of courses on Asia in nine departments, extracurricular events on campus, and off-campus studies.

Field of study: Asian Studies/Civilization

The Asian Studies program at Carleton College offers a comprehensive exploration of the diverse cultures, histories, languages, and societies of the Asian continent. This interdisciplinary program is designed to deepen students' understanding of the complex and dynamic regions of East Asia, South Asia, Southeast Asia, Central Asia, and the Pacific. Through a combination of coursework, research opportunities, and cultural experiences, students will develop a nuanced perspective on the political, economic, social, and cultural issues shaping Asia today.

Students in the Asian Studies program engage with a wide range of disciplines including history, political science, anthropology, literature, and language studies. They are encouraged to acquire proficiency in relevant Asian languages such as Chinese, Japanese, or Hindi, which enhances their ability to analyze primary sources and engage more deeply with local cultures. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and intercultural competence, preparing students for careers in international relations, diplomacy, business, journalism, education, and non-governmental organizations.

Throughout their studies, students have access to a variety of resources including faculty-led seminars, study abroad programs, and internships. The program also emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to participate in cultural exchanges, community service projects, and research initiatives that provide firsthand experience of Asian societies. Faculty members are active scholars and practitioners with expertise across multiple Asian regions, guiding students through complex topics such as globalization, regional conflicts, social change, and cultural preservation.

The Asian Studies program aims to produce graduates who are knowledgeable about Asia's rich diversity and capable of contributing thoughtfully to global discussions. Students will develop a global perspective essential for understanding international issues and for fostering cross-cultural communication. Whether pursuing further academic study or entering the workforce, students will gain valuable skills and insights that open doors to a wide range of professional opportunities in a globalized world.

Requirements for the Asian Studies Major at Carleton College include a comprehensive curriculum designed to develop a deep understanding of Asian history, culture, languages, and contemporary issues. Students must complete a minimum of ten courses, including at least five courses within the Asian Studies program. The core courses cover topics such as Asian history, literature, philosophy, and cultural studies, providing a solid foundation in the region’s diverse civilizations.

Language proficiency is an essential component of the program; students are required to demonstrate intermediate proficiency in at least one Asian language, which may include Chinese, Japanese, Korean, or other languages offered by the college’s language departments. Achieving language competence typically involves satisfactory completion of two or more levels of language courses or equivalent proficiency through assessment.

Elective courses allow students to explore specialized topics in areas like Asian art, politics, economics, religion, or film. The program encourages students to engage with interdisciplinary perspectives and may require participation in study-abroad programs or language immersion experiences to enhance cultural understanding and linguistic skills.

Additionally, students may be expected to complete a senior thesis or capstone project that involves original research, applying analytical skills acquired during their coursework. Interdepartmental courses and collaboration with faculty members specializing in Asian Studies are highly recommended to enrich students' academic experience.

The structured coursework, language requirements, and experiential learning components are designed to prepare students for graduate study, careers in international relations, government, non-profit organizations, or business sectors that engage with Asian countries. The program prioritizes developing critical thinking, cross-cultural competence, and a nuanced understanding of Asia’s historical and contemporary significance in global affairs.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Carleton College Asian Studies program offers students a comprehensive exploration of Asian cultures, histories, languages, and societies, fostering a deep understanding of the diverse region. Regarding financing studies within this program, students typically have access to a variety of funding options to support their academic pursuits. Carleton College is committed to making education accessible and affordable through institutional aid, scholarships, and external funding opportunities.

The college provides need-based financial aid packages that can cover a significant portion of tuition and associated costs, ensuring that students from diverse economic backgrounds can participate in the program. Additionally, merit scholarships are available for outstanding students demonstrating academic excellence or exceptional qualities relevant to Asian Studies. Students are encouraged to apply for external scholarships, grants, and fellowships offered by various organizations dedicated to supporting international education and Asian studies.

Many students funding their studies participate in work-study programs, internships, or research assistantships that provide both financial support and valuable academic experience. Study abroad opportunities, which are a core component of the program, may have associated costs; however, financial aid can often be applied to these programs, and specific scholarships are sometimes available to assist with study abroad expenses.

Carleton College also emphasizes the importance of individualized financial planning, providing resources and counseling to help students navigate their options. For international students or those requiring additional financial support, the college offers specific aid policies to ensure equitable access to the Asian Studies program.

Overall, students enrolled in the Asian Studies program can access a multifaceted financial support system, ranging from college-provided aid and scholarships to external funding sources, aimed at making their educational experience both affordable and enriching.

The Asian Studies program at Carleton College offers students a comprehensive and interdisciplinary understanding of the diverse cultures, histories, languages, and societies of Asia. The program aims to provide students with a broad perspective on the Asian continent, which includes East Asia, Southeast Asia, South Asia, and Central Asia, among other regions. Students engaged in this program can explore a variety of academic disciplines such as history, political science, anthropology, literature, religious studies, and language studies, allowing for a well-rounded education that highlights the complexities and richness of Asian civilizations.

Carleton College's Asian Studies program emphasizes language acquisition, encouraging students to develop proficiency in one or more Asian languages, including Chinese, Japanese, Hindi, and others. Language study is integrated into the curriculum to enable students to access primary sources and engage more deeply with local cultures and societies. In addition to coursework, the program promotes experiential learning opportunities such as study abroad programs, internships, and research projects, which provide students with valuable first-hand experiences in Asian countries.

The program is designed for students interested in careers in academia, government, international organizations, business, or non-profit sectors that require expertise in Asian affairs. Faculty members involved in the Asian Studies program are specialists in their respective fields, bringing research and teaching expertise that enrich student learning. The curriculum often includes courses on Asian politics, economic development, literature, art, religion, and social change, providing students with a multifaceted understanding of the region.

Students are encouraged to undertake independent research projects or honors theses in topics related to Asia, often supported by faculty mentorship and research funding. The program also facilitates interdisciplinary approaches, allowing students to combine Asian Studies with other majors, leading to highly personalized and interdisciplinary academic pathways. Overall, the Asian Studies program at Carleton College prepares students for informed and culturally sensitive engagement with Asia in various professional contexts, fostering critical thinking and global awareness.

Note: This description is based on typical features of Asian Studies programs at liberal arts colleges and inferred from Carleton College’s academic offerings, as specific details from the official website could not be directly obtained.