Asian Studies Minor

Program Overview

The Asian Studies Minor at Whitworth University provides students with a comprehensive understanding of East Asian countries through an interdisciplinary approach. The program emphasizes language proficiency, intercultural competency, and study-abroad opportunities, preparing graduates for careers in government, teaching, research, law, business, and media.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Name:

Asian Studies Minor

Overview:

The Asian Studies Minor at Whitworth University equips students with a comprehensive understanding of East Asian countries, encompassing their political dynamics, social structures, religious traditions, philosophical schools, and literary landscapes. Through an interdisciplinary approach, the program enriches any chosen course of study and empowers students to navigate the global marketplace of culture and economics with heightened awareness and understanding of Asia's substantial influence.

Objectives:

• Develop intercultural competency through multifaceted exploration of Asian cultures, fostering diverse perspectives and enhanced engagement with global communities.
• Seize study-abroad opportunities to immerse oneself in the vibrant cultures of China, Japan, and Vietnam, gaining firsthand experience and deepening understanding.
• Engage with renowned professors across disciplines who ignite intellectual curiosity and inspire new interests in diverse fields such as language, literature, and religion.
• Embrace academic challenges presented by the rigorous and globally focused curriculum, preparing graduates for dynamic and fulfilling careers across various fields.
• Establish connections between personal faith or worldview and academic pursuits, gaining deeper insights into one's own beliefs and practices through the exploration of other faith traditions.

Program Description:

The Asian Studies Minor curriculum places great emphasis on achieving proficiency in an Asian language. This linguistic foundation serves as a gateway to unlocking the intricacies and nuances of East Asian cultures, enabling students to engage with primary sources and delve into the complexities of the region.

Outline:

Program Content:

• History:
Survey of East Asian history, tracing the evolution of political systems, social structures, and cultural traditions.
• Political Science:
Examination of East Asian political systems, including their historical development, contemporary challenges, and regional dynamics.
• Economics:
Analysis of East Asian economies, focusing on economic growth, trade patterns, and the impact of globalization.
• Religion:
Exploration of the major religious traditions of East Asia, including Buddhism, Confucianism, Daoism, and Shintoism.
• Philosophy:
Study of East Asian philosophies, emphasizing their historical development, core concepts, and contemporary relevance.
• Literature:
Analysis of East Asian literature, spanning classical works to contemporary fiction, exploring themes of identity, culture, and social change.
• Language Study:
Intensive study of an East Asian language, developing proficiency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing.

Assessment:

The Asian Studies Minor at Whitworth University employs a variety of assessment methods to evaluate student learning and progress:

• Exams:
Written examinations assess students' knowledge and understanding of course material, including historical events, political systems, economic theories, religious beliefs, philosophical concepts, and literary analysis.
• Essays:
Written assignments require students to demonstrate their analytical skills, research abilities, and capacity for critical thinking.
• Presentations:
Oral presentations allow students to share their research findings, engage with course material, and develop their communication skills.
• Class Participation:
Active involvement in class discussions and group projects is evaluated to assess students' engagement with the material, ability to articulate their ideas, and contribute to the learning environment.

Teaching:

The Asian Studies Minor at Whitworth University benefits from the expertise of a dedicated faculty who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the classroom. Professors are committed to fostering a dynamic and engaging learning environment, employing a variety of teaching methods to cater to diverse learning styles.

• Lectures:
Traditional lectures provide students with foundational knowledge and an overview of course topics.
• Discussion-Based Learning:
Interactive discussions encourage students to engage with the material, share their perspectives, and develop their critical thinking skills.
• Experiential Learning:
Study-abroad opportunities and internships provide hands-on experience and allow students to apply their learning in real-world contexts.
• Research Projects:
Independent research projects challenge students to delve deeply into a specific topic, develop research skills, and present their findings.

Careers:

Graduates of the Asian Studies Minor at Whitworth University are well-equipped for a wide range of careers that leverage their knowledge of East Asia and their intercultural competence. They are highly sought after in fields such as:

• Government Service:
Policy analysis, international relations, diplomacy

Teaching:

History, political science, economics, religion, Asian studies
• Research:
Academia, think tanks, research institutions
• Law:
International law, human rights law, corporate law
• Nonprofit Work:
International development, humanitarian aid, social justice
• Business:
International business, marketing, finance, consulting
• Media:
Journalism, public relations, communications