Asian Studies, B.A.
Program Transfer Guide
University of Maryland, Baltimore County
Effective
Fall, 2024 - Current
Instruction Methods
In person
About the Program
The Asian Studies program (Asian Studies, B.A., Asian Studies Minor, Asian Studies Certificate) enables students to explore the history, culture, languages and literatures, societies, politics, economics, philosophy, art and music of Asia. The combination of foreign language and area studies across a number of disciplines (American Studies, Dance, Economics, English, History, Modern Languages, Linguistics & Intercultural Communication, Music, Philosophy, and Political Science) introduces undergraduates to the knowledge, language skills, and research methods specific to those disciplines and help to prepare them for various professional paths related to Asia. Asian Studies is an increasingly relevant academic program for the 21st century, particularly given Asia’s considerable economic, political, military, and cultural impact across the globe.
The UMBC Asian Studies Program draws upon a faculty of approximately twenty specialists, from a dozen different departments. These include internationally recognized scholars who take teaching as seriously as they do research as well as skilled language instructors. The program’s faculty also help students learn how to apply the knowledge and analytical skills gained through the study of Asia to satisfying careers and life-long learning.
Career and Academic Paths
The Asian Studies major program equips students with the knowledge and skills to help prepare them for various professional paths related to Asia, such as advanced academic research, education, international relations, international business and trade, governmental service, and international law. The minor and upper-level certificate programs enable them to gain a solid understanding of Asia that provide an important international perspective on whatever field they may choose to pursue.
Study Abroad
The Asian Studies program encourages students to study abroad in Asia, but it does not require it. Asian Studies works closely with the Education Abroad Office to help students select the program most suited to them, one that will offer them the type of overseas experience they are seeking as well as advance their progress through the Asian Studies major, minor or certificate program.
Special Opportunities: Internships
Students can enhance their classroom experience by participating in internships in the US Department of State, Smithsonian Institution, Walters Art Museum, and other national and local government departments, NGO’s and non-profit organizations. In addition, internships abroad have, in recent years, become a significant way of combining study abroad with work experience. Further information about internship opportunities is available from the Asian Studies program director or the Internship and Jobs section of the Asian Studies website.
Student Organizations
All students are encouraged to participate in the student-run Asian Studies Council of Majors (ASCOM). The council meets weekly for lectures and informal discussions on historical topics and careers in addition to hosting a language hour for share practice and study in Asian languages. The council also sponsors guest speakers and field trips to museums and historic sites.
Students are also encouraged to participate in any of the activities of a wide variety of student organizations related to Asia, cultural/ethnic organizations (e.g., Asian Students Connection, Japanese Culture Club) and those involving hobbies, sport, or general interest (e.g., Anime Society, Jujitsu Club, etc.). A list of student organizations is available on the Campus Life website.