About the Program
Asian Studies is an excellent focus for a liberal arts education. Asia has over half the world’s population and its economies have grown faster than those of any other region of the world in recent decades. Asia is home to a rich variety of cultures, languages, economies, and political systems and is of great importance to the United States. Five major American wars (the Philippine-American War, World War II, Korea, Vietnam, and the War in Afghanistan) have been fought in Asia. The size of the continent’s population, combined with strong economic growth trends, ensures that Asia will become increasingly important during students’ lifetimes. Furthermore, intense study of non-Western languages and societies gives students a comparative perspective for understanding their own Western language and society.
An Asian Studies major or minor is particularly appropriate at Purdue. Over 7,000 students from nineteen Asian nations make up eighteen percent of the total student body at Purdue. Twentytwo Asia-related student groups at Purdue welcome students from all countries and provide a marvelous way to meet students from different cultures and backgrounds. A major or minor in Asian Studies gives students a foundation for graduate work in the humanities, social sciences, business, law, or journalism. Knowledge of Asia and Asian languages will prepare students for the wide range of careers in which international exposure, knowledge, and sensitivity are important.
Summary of Program Requirements
The Summary of Program Requirements for Asian Studies is a comprehensive list of those categories which a student must fulfill in order to earn their degree. Unlike the full Detailed Program Requirements listed below, complete lists of selectives for any given category are not shown. These summaries are intended to be printer-friendly and less expansive in detail.
Detailed Program Requirements
Please see below for detailed program requirements and possible selective fulfillments.
Asian Studies-BA
ASIA
120 Credits