The BA degree in Asian Studies aims to understand Asia in a dynamic global context.

It will enhance students' understanding of historical and contemporary global culture and politics by enabling students to engage with an extensive and intensive study of Asia in the past and present. Students majoring in Asian Studies explore the societies of East and South Asia and their global ramifications. The program offers lively academic study of Asia through interdisciplinary curriculum, internships, international exchange programs, and study abroad.

Asian Studies Research Council

The Asian Studies Research Council is responsible for the coordination of lectures, seminars, research projects, and publications in the area of Asian studies at American University. The scholarly organization coordinates Asian study activities to promote deeper mutual understandings between Asia and the United States. Working closely with the School of International Service and the College of Arts and Sciences, the Council engages with interdisciplinary scholars of international studies, social sciences, humanities, business, and law. Research and teaching are conducted on such topics as political economy, civil society, democratization, international relations, foreign policy, gender, race, culture, labor, business, migration, literature, religion, and philosophy. The Council primarily focuses on East Asia - China, Japan, and Korea - as well as Southeast Asia and South Asia.

Council Chair:
Dr. Quansheng Zhao

China Coordinator - Jie Lu
Japan Coordinator - Kuniko Ashizawa
Southeast Asia Coordinator - Pek Koon Heng-Blackburn
South Asia - Akbar Ahmed