Program Overview
The PhD in East Asian Languages and Civilizations (Chinese) at Arizona State University is a research-intensive program that equips students with extensive knowledge of Chinese language and culture, critical thinking skills, and high-level research abilities. The program focuses on comparative cultural studies, cultural history, linguistics, literary criticism, and literary thought. Graduates pursue careers in academia, business, government, media, and non-profit organizations.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Objective:
The PhD program in East Asian languages and civilizations (Chinese) is a research-intensive, transdisciplinary, area-based degree focused on the study of traditional and modern languages and cultures of China. The program aims to equip students with:
- Extensive knowledge of Chinese language and culture: Students will develop a solid foundation in both the classical and modern versions of Chinese language and culture, including literature, history, and cultural studies.
- Critical thinking and complex problem-solving abilities: The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking skills and the ability to deal with complex ideas within the context of East Asian studies.
- High-level research skills: Students will gain extensive experience in conducting research with a high level of cultural and linguistic knowledge.
- Local vernacular environment: The program provides opportunities for students to experience a local vernacular environment, further enhancing their understanding of Chinese culture.
Program Description:
The program focuses on the following areas:
- Comparative cultural studies: Examining different cultural elements and perspectives within the context of East Asia.
- Cultural history: Exploring the historical development and evolution of Chinese culture.
- Linguistics: Delving into the structure, development, and usage of the Chinese language.
- Literary criticism: Analyzing and interpreting Chinese literature from various perspectives.
- Literary thought: Examining the philosophical and theoretical underpinnings of Chinese literary traditions.
Outline:
Degree Requirements:
- Total credit hours: 84
- Required Core: 3 credit hours (CHI 501 Proseminar: East Asian Humanities)
- Concentration: 6 credit hours (CHI 514 Advanced Classical Chinese)
- Other Requirements: 39 credit hours (including academic writing, history of Chinese language and literature, special topics seminars)
- Electives: 24 credit hours
- Culminating Experience: 12 credit hours (Dissertation)
Course Descriptions:
The program offers a variety of courses covering different aspects of Chinese language, literature, and culture. Some notable examples include:
- CHI 502 Academic Writing: Develops academic writing skills in the context of Chinese studies.
- CHI 598 Topic: Proseminar: Chinese Literary History: Explores the history of Chinese literature through various periods and genres.
- CHI 598 Topic: History of the Chinese Language: Examines the historical development and evolution of the Chinese language.
- CHI 598 Special Topics: Offers a variety of specialized courses on specific topics related to Chinese culture and language.
- CHI 691 Seminar: Advanced seminars focusing on specific research themes within the field.
Course Schedule:
The program offers courses throughout the year, with both fall and spring semesters. Specific course offerings and schedules may vary from year to year.
Assessment:
Assessment methods:
The program utilizes various assessment methods to evaluate student learning outcomes, including:
- Examinations: Written and oral exams testing students' knowledge and understanding of course material.
- Papers and assignments: Written assignments and research papers assessing students' analytical and writing skills.
- Presentations: Oral presentations allowing students to demonstrate their research findings and communication skills. These criteria may include:
- Accuracy and depth of knowledge: Demonstrating a thorough understanding of the subject matter.
- Critical thinking and analysis: Ability to analyze complex information, identify key issues, and form independent arguments.
- Research skills: Demonstrating proficiency in conducting research, collecting and analyzing data, and presenting findings effectively.
- Communication skills: Ability to communicate effectively in both written and oral formats.
Teaching:
Teaching methods:
The program utilizes various teaching methods to cater to different learning styles and promote student engagement. These methods include:
- Lectures: Delivering core content and providing an overview of key concepts.
- Seminars: Facilitating interactive discussions and in-depth analysis of specific topics.
- Workshops: Providing hands-on practice and skill development opportunities.
- Independent research: Encouraging students to conduct their own research projects under faculty guidance.
Faculty:
The program boasts a distinguished faculty with expertise in diverse areas of Chinese language, literature, and culture. Faculty members are actively involved in research and regularly publish their work in leading academic journals.
Unique approaches:
The program offers several unique approaches to teaching and learning, including:
- Emphasis on research: The program encourages students to engage in research from the beginning of their studies, fostering their research skills and preparing them for future academic careers.
- Cultural immersion opportunities: The program provides opportunities for students to experience Chinese culture firsthand through study abroad programs and language immersion experiences.
Careers:
Career paths:
Graduates of the program can pursue diverse career paths in various sectors, including:
- Academia: Teaching and research positions at universities and colleges.
- Business: Translators, interpreters, and international business consultants.
- Government and diplomacy: Policy analysts, cultural affairs specialists, and foreign service officers.
- Media and communications: Journalists, reporters, and editors specializing in East Asian affairs.
- Non-profit organizations: Working with organizations focused on cultural exchange and international development.
Career outcomes:
The program prepares students for successful careers by equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge.
- The program offers funding opportunities for students, including teaching assistantships and research assistantships.
- The program encourages students to participate in conferences and workshops to present their research and network with other scholars. The program's research-intensive approach, distinguished faculty, and diverse career opportunities make it an excellent choice for students aiming for academic or professional careers in East Asian studies.
