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Grand Valley State University’s East Asian Studies
Program explores the languages, cultures, histories, and socioeconomic
conditions of China and Japan. The program recognizes the rich
and complex traditions and historical contributions of these countries,
and acknowledges the essential roles they play in the world today.
The East Asian studies minor is designed for
students who are interested in Chinese and Japanese culture and
see fluency in Chinese or Japanese language as instrumental for
their effectiveness in an increasingly international community.
Students majoring in areas like Business, Communications,
English, History, International Relations, Philosophy and Political
Science will find this program provides a unique perspective and
complements their major programs. Students studying Chinese or
Japanese at the primary or secondary level, transfer students
and study abroad participants may also choose to minor in East
Asian Studies.
Students are also encouraged to participate
in the activities of local Asian associations, including the Chinese
Association of West Michigan, the Asian-American Association,
Japan-America Society of West Michigan. Also student groups like
the Asian Student Union (ASU) and the International Student Organization
(ISO). Members of community organizations and businesses are also
invited to take courses and participate in program activities.
As a part of the East Asian Studies minor, students
can participate in the study abroad programs in East China Normal
University in Shanghai, National Taiwan Normal University in Taipei,
Japanese Studies program at International Christian University
(ICU) or the Japan Center for Michigan Universities (JCMU). Consult
the Padnos International Center or the coordinator of the East
Asian Studies Program for more information.
Students seeking a minor
in East Asian Studies are required to complete 21-22 credit hours.
This includes nine credits of core courses, four credits of language
courses above the 201-level, and nine credits of electives for
a total of 22 credits. Students who enter the university competent
in Japanese or Chinese at the 202-level or higher will take one
extra elective course for a total of 21 credits. No more than
two courses from any department other than East Asian Studies
can be counted toward the minor. There is no limit on the courses
designated East Asian Studies (EAS) that may apply to the minor.
China contributes five
thousand years of civilization, more than a billion people, and
a fast growing economy. And Japan with its unparalleled economic
success demands attention from the world. The East Asian Studies
Program balances a liberal arts and professional approach to understanding
the economic potential, rich cultural resources, and the basic
need for intercultural relationships with these two countries.
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East
Asian Studies Program
