Program Overview
The Minor in South Asian Studies at San Francisco State University provides a multidisciplinary exploration of South Asia, encompassing culture, history, economics, politics, and diaspora. Through a flexible curriculum, students gain knowledge and critical thinking skills, preparing them for careers in education, social services, law, politics, government, and beyond. The program emphasizes the diverse and intricate aspects of South Asia, including its linguistic, ethnic, religious, and cultural heritage.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Minor in South Asian Studies at San Francisco State University is a multidisciplinary program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the culture, history, economics, and politics of South Asia and its diaspora. This region, encompassing Pakistan, Afghanistan, India, Nepal, Bhutan, Maldives, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, is a crucial area of study due to its rich linguistic, ethnic, and religious diversity, its complex history under British colonial rule and subsequent independence, its recent economic growth and global technological influence, and the widespread migration of South Asians over the past century. The program aims to equip students with the ability to:
- Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the diverse and intricate aspects of South Asian culture, politics, history, immigration, and other social formations.
- Articulate and critically evaluate key discussions and debates within the scholarship of South Asian studies through research and response papers, exams, and class presentations.
- Apply theoretical frameworks and methodologies from various academic disciplines in the arts, humanities, and social sciences to communicate the underlying causes of historical and contemporary debates concerning South Asia.
The minor is beneficial for students seeking careers in education, social services, law, politics, government, business, media, and art, both nationally and internationally. It also prepares students for advanced academic study in various fields.
Outline:
The South Asian Studies minor requires the completion of 18 units. The program structure is divided into a core curriculum and a set of electives:
Core Curriculum (9-10 units):
- Students must select one course from each of the three core areas:
- Core Area 1: Culture of South Asia (3 units)
- HUM 5353
- HUM 5363
- Core Area 2: History and Politics of South Asia (3-4 units)
- HIST 370/CLAS 582/HUM 582: Tales from Ancient India: Hinduism and Buddhism (3 units)
- HIST 371: (3 units)
- HIST 372: (3 units)
- HIST 373: Contemporary India (3 units)
- I R 3264: (4 units)
- PLSI/I R 412: South Asian Politics (4 units)
- Core Area 3: South Asian Diaspora (3 units)
- AA S 540: South Asians in the United States (3 units)
- RRS 657/AA S 541: South Asian Diaspora (3 units)
Electives (8-9 units):
- Students can select elective courses from the core courses not already used to satisfy core requirements or from the following list:
- AA S 210: History of Asians in the United States (3 units) or AA S 510: Asian Americans in California
- ARTH/HUM 205: Asian Art History (3 units)
- ARTH 421: Special Topics in Art History (3 units)
- ARTH/HUM 496: Art, Architecture, and Space in the Islamic World (3 units)
- HIST 374/HUM 586: Bollywood and Beyond: Indian History Through Film (3 units)
- HIST 382: History of Iran and Afghanistan 1500 - Present (3 units)
- HUM 366: India's Gandhi (3 units)
- PHIL 509: The Buddhist Tradition (3 units)
Careers:
The Minor in South Asian Studies can prepare students for a range of career paths, both nationally and internationally, in the following fields:
- Education
- Social Services
- Law
- Politics
- Government
- Business
- Media
- Art
Other:
The program is designed to be flexible, allowing students to choose from courses across various disciplines, including:
- Art History
- Asian American Studies
- Economics
- English
- Ethnic Studies
- History
- Holistic Health
- Humanities
- International Business
- International Relations
- Philosophy
- Political Science
- Women and Gender Studies The minor requires a minimum of 6 upper-division units and a minimum grade point average of 2.0 for all coursework used to fulfill the requirements.
San Francisco State University
Overview:
San Francisco State University (SF State) is a public university located in San Francisco, California. It is part of the California State University (CSU) system, the largest system of higher education in the country. SF State is known for its diverse and inclusive community, offering a wide range of academic programs and a strong commitment to social justice.
Services Offered:
The university provides a variety of services to support student success, including:
Academic advising:
Students receive guidance on course selection, degree planning, and career exploration.Student support services:
SF State offers resources for students facing academic challenges, personal difficulties, or financial hardship.Career services:
The university provides assistance with resume writing, job searching, and career development.Health and wellness services:
Students have access to counseling, health care, and other wellness resources.Student Life and Campus Experience:
SF State offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can:
Engage in student organizations:
There are numerous clubs, organizations, and activities to join, catering to diverse interests.Participate in cultural events:
The university hosts a variety of events, performances, and exhibitions throughout the year.Explore the Bay Area:
SF State's location in the heart of the Bay Area provides easy access to cultural attractions, museums, and entertainment venues.Key Reasons to Study There:
Diverse and inclusive community:
SF State prides itself on its welcoming and diverse student body, fostering a sense of belonging for all.Strong academic programs:
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a focus on social justice and real-world application.Location in the Bay Area:
SF State's location provides access to a vibrant and dynamic city, offering opportunities for internships, networking, and career development.Commitment to social justice:
SF State is dedicated to promoting social justice and equity, providing students with the tools and knowledge to make a positive impact on the world.Academic Programs:
SF State offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:
Arts and Humanities:
Visual and performing arts, literature, history, philosophy, and more.Social Sciences:
Psychology, sociology, political science, economics, and more.Business:
Accounting, finance, marketing, management, and more.Science and Technology:
Biology, chemistry, physics, computer science, and more.Education:
Teacher preparation, educational leadership, and more.Other:
SF State has a strong athletic program, competing in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). The university also has a strong commitment to international education and exchange, offering opportunities for students to study abroad and participate in global learning experiences.
