The Asian Studies B.A. enhances the mission of Florida International University to achieve excellence in diverse aspects of its international studies programming. This degree is designed for students who possess a desire for intellectual growth that focuses on their interest in Asia. It serves the urban population of Miami, which seeks employment opportunities and economic advancement through cultural and commercial connections with Asia. The study of this increasingly important world region, with an emphasis on China, Japan, India, and Central and Southeast Asia, provides a multidisciplinary approach covering the languages and culture, philosophy and religion, arts and literature, as well as issues in history, politics, geography, sociologyanthropology, international relations, education and business.
The degree provides students with a foundation in the traditional cultures and modern socio-economic societies of Asia and its dynamics in the global environment. Asian Studies provides instruction, advising, and experiential opportunities for students in an environment promoting scholarship, critical thinking, free inquiry, and clear and candid communication.
ConcentrationsTracks
All majors must select one of the following concentrations within the B.A. The following concentrationstracks, excluding the fully online track, are not available to fully online degree seeking students.
Asian Area Studies Concentration
The Asian Area Studies concentration emphasizes language studies and regional studies in political economy or cultural history, and requires two years of language.
six (6) credits of an Asian Language, level 3 and above are required. Level 1 and 2 of an Asian Language are considered pre-requisite.
East Asian Studies Concentration
The East Asian Studies concentration emphasizes advanced language studies by requiring six (6) semesters of Chinese, Japanese, Korean or other Asian language, which may be done with:
four (4) semesters in one Asian language, levels 3 and 4 will count towards the major and two (2) semesters in another Asian language levels 1 and 2 (only 6 credits will be counted from the second language for this requirement).
Asian World Affairs Concentration
The Asian World Affairs Track emphasizes the role of Asia in contemporary world affairs, and requires one year of language but encourages additional study. In the 21st century, it is crucial for students interested in current issues of Asian economies and policies, trade and investment, and cross-cultural exchanges and intellectual activities to be well-versed in an interdisciplinary study of the area. Familiarity with a relevant Asian language is required for students to better understand Asia and world affairs.
Japanese Area Studies Major
For this track, 12 credits of Japanese Language are required, excluding levels 1 and 2 which are pre-requisites.
Chinese Area Studies Major
For this track, 9 credits of Chinese Language are required, excluding levels 1 and 2 which are seen as pre-requisites.
