East Asian Studies (Business)

The Bachelor of Arts in East Asian Studies with a concentration in Business at the University of Alberta offers students a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of the economic, cultural, political, and social aspects of East Asia, with a specific focus on business practices and commercial environments within the region. This interdisciplinary program combines language acquisition, regional studies, and business training to prepare graduates for careers in international trade, diplomacy, multinational corporations, and other global industries that engage with East Asian markets.

Throughout the program, students have the opportunity to develop proficiency in one or more East Asian languages, such as Chinese, Japanese, or Korean, enhancing their ability to communicate effectively and understand regional perspectives. The curriculum includes courses in East Asian history, culture, politics, and modern society, providing students with contextual knowledge essential for navigating the complexities of the region. Additionally, specialized courses in business practices, economics, international trade, and regional business strategies equip students with the skills needed to succeed in global commerce.

The program emphasizes experiential learning through internships, study abroad opportunities, and engagement with industry partners, allowing students to gain practical insights into East Asian business environments. Faculty members are experts in their fields, offering mentorship and guidance to support students’ academic and professional development. Graduates of this program are well-positioned for careers in international companies, government agencies, NGOs, and research institutions that focus on East Asian markets.

Designed to foster intercultural competence, critical thinking, and analytical skills, the East Asian Studies (Business) program at the University of Alberta prepares students to become informed global citizens and effective communicators in a rapidly changing world. With a combination of rigorous academic coursework and real-world experiences, students will graduate ready to contribute to international business initiatives, policy development, and cross-cultural understanding within East Asia and beyond.

The Bachelor of Arts in East Asian Studies (Business) at the University of Alberta provides students with a comprehensive interdisciplinary education focusing on the economic, cultural, political, and social dimensions of East Asia, with an emphasis on integrating business principles and practices. This program is designed for students who wish to develop a deep understanding of the major economies of China, Japan, Korea, and other East Asian countries, alongside practical business skills relevant to the global marketplace. Throughout the program, students will engage with a diverse curriculum that combines language acquisition, regional history, contemporary politics, international relations, and economic development, enabling them to analyze and understand the complex dynamics shaping East Asia today.

A core component of the program involves learning an East Asian language such as Mandarin, Japanese, or Korean, which equips students with valuable communication skills and cultural literacy for both academic and professional pursuits. Courses in business, management, and economics are tailored specifically to the East Asian context, providing insight into regional business practices, corporate culture, and economic strategies. Students also have the opportunity to participate in internships, exchange programs, and research projects aimed at fostering practical experience and strengthening cross-cultural competencies. These experiential learning components are essential in preparing graduates for careers in international business, diplomacy, trade, and global development agencies focused on East Asian markets.

The program emphasizes critical thinking and intercultural understanding, encouraging students to explore the social and ethical considerations involved in doing business across different cultures and regulatory environments. Faculty members are experts in East Asian studies, economics, political science, and business, offering mentorship and guidance to help students tailor their academic journey to their career goals. Graduates of this program will possess a unique blend of regional expertise, language proficiency, and business acumen, making them competitive candidates in international organizations, multinational corporations, government agencies, and non-profit sectors engaged in East Asian affairs. With a dynamic curriculum that integrates regional studies with practical skills, the East Asian Studies (Business) program at the University of Alberta opens a gateway to exciting global opportunities in the rapidly growing economies of East Asia.

The Bachelor of Arts in East Asian Studies (Business) at the University of Alberta requires students to complete a set of core and elective courses designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of East Asian cultures, economies, and business practices. Students must accumulate a minimum of 120 university-level credits to graduate, with designated courses in language studies, economics, history, and political science alongside specialized business courses focusing on East Asian markets. The program includes a mandatory introductory course in East Asian Studies that provides an overview of the history and culture of the region, laying the foundation for more advanced topics. Students are also required to undertake intermediate and advanced language courses in Chinese, Japanese, or Korean to develop proficiency necessary for conducting business and professional communication within East Asia.

Furthermore, the program emphasizes regional economic development and international trade, requiring courses such as Introduction to Economics, International Business, and East Asian Economic Development. To foster practical skills, students must participate in internships or co-operative education placements, which offer real-world business experiences in East Asian contexts. These placements are coordinated with local and international companies engaged in East Asian markets, allowing students to apply their language skills and cultural knowledge in professional settings. Students are encouraged to study abroad for at least one semester in an East Asian country through the university’s exchange programs, which enhances cultural immersion and language acquisition.

Elective courses offer specialization in areas such as Asian political systems, business law in East Asia, or contemporary issues in Asian economies. A capstone project or a thesis may be required in the final year, providing an opportunity for students to engage in research related to East Asian business practices and policies. Transfer credits may be accepted for relevant courses completed at other accredited institutions, provided they align with the program’s core competencies. The program aims to produce graduates capable of functioning effectively in multicultural and international business environments related to East Asia, prepared with language proficiency, regional knowledge, and practical experience.

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 University of Alberta offers a comprehensive financing program for students enrolled in the East Asian Studies (Business) undergraduate degree. Funding options are designed to support students financially throughout their academic journey, including scholarships, bursaries, government financial aid, and work-study opportunities. Scholarships for incoming students are available based on academic merit, leadership qualities, and involvement in extracurricular activities. These include entrance scholarships that recognize high-achieving students and continuing scholarships awarded annually for maintaining excellent academic standing. Bursaries are also available for students demonstrating financial need, helping to alleviate some of the economic burdens associated with higher education.

In addition to institution-specific funding, students can access government financial aid programs such as Canada Student Grants and Loans, which provide financial support based on income level and family circumstances. The Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) is another resource for eligible students, offering loans and grants to help cover educational costs. Work-study programs are available at the university, allowing students to gain work experience while earning money to offset education expenses. These positions are often related to students' fields of study, providing both financial support and professional development opportunities.

The university also encourages students to seek external scholarships and sponsorships from private organizations, industry partners, and community groups, many of which support students in international studies or language programs. The East Asian Studies (Business) program may have additional funding resources, including partnerships with businesses engaged in East Asian markets, which could offer internships and sponsorships to students. Moreover, students are advised to explore part-time employment options on and around campus to supplement their income.

Financial planning resources, including workshops and counseling, are available through the university’s Student Financial Support team to help students manage their budgets effectively. The university provides information on applying for various funding sources well in advance of important deadlines to ensure students can access all available financial aid. The overall goal of the financing studies at the University of Alberta is to make education accessible and affordable, enabling students to focus on their academic success and professional development in the field of East Asian business studies.

The Bachelor of Arts in East Asian Studies (Business) at the University of Alberta offers students a comprehensive academic experience focused on the economic, political, cultural, and social aspects of East Asia, with a particular emphasis on the business environment and economic practices within the region. This degree program combines language acquisition, area studies, and business-related coursework to prepare graduates for careers in international business, trade, diplomatic service, or further academic pursuits. Students will engage in courses that cover Chinese, Japanese, or Korean languages, alongside studies in history, culture, and contemporary issues facing East Asian societies.

The program is designed to develop proficiency in an East Asian language, coupled with knowledge of regional economic systems, business practices, and cultural nuances that influence business operations and international relations. Students are encouraged to participate in internships, exchange programs, or co-operative education opportunities to gain practical experience and enhance their understanding of East Asian business environments. The curriculum includes core courses in economics, international trade, and business management, supplemented by regional studies courses that delve into history, politics, and cultural contexts.

Graduates of this program are well-equipped with linguistic skills and regional expertise, enabling them to pursue careers in multinational corporations, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, or international consulting firms that operate within or have interests in East Asia. The program emphasizes critical thinking, cross-cultural communication, and analytical skills necessary for navigating complex international business scenarios. Students are also encouraged to participate in research projects, seminars, and conferences to stay informed about emerging trends and issues in East Asian economies.

The university provides various resources to support student success, including language labs, regional libraries, and connections with industry professionals. The program also fosters an inclusive and diverse learning environment, encouraging students from different backgrounds to engage with East Asian cultures and economic systems fully. Overall, the East Asian Studies (Business) program aims to produce graduates who are culturally aware, linguistically skilled, and professionally prepared to operate effectively in international business contexts related to East Asia.