Introduction to Japanese Language and Culture
ASTD 135 | 3 Credits
Course Desc: (Formerly JAPN 105. Not open to students with substantial prior experience with Japanese language or culture; assumes no prior knowledge of Japanese. Students with prior experience with the Japanese language should take a placement test to assess appropriate level.) A hands-on, project- based introduction to Japanese language and culture. The goal is to develop cultural competency and familiarity with the history, geography, and culture of Japan and to use basic language skills to function effectively and appropriately in everyday life in Japan. Students may receive credit for only one of the following: ASTD 135 or JAPN 105.
Introduction to Korean Language and Culture
ASTD 155 | 3 Credits
Course Desc: (Not open to students with substantial prior experience with Korean language or culture; assumes no prior knowledge of Korean. Students with prior experience with the Korean language should take a placement test to assess appropriate level.) A hands-on, project-based introduction to Korean language and culture. The goal is to develop cultural competence in personal interactions; demonstrate knowledge of the history, geography, and culture of Korea; and use basic language skills to function effectively and appropriately in everyday activities in Korea. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: ASTD 155 and KORN 105.
Foundations of East Asian Civilization
ASTD 284 | 3 Credits
Course Desc: (Formerly HIST 284.) An interdisciplinary survey of the foundations of East Asian civilization from its beginnings to the 17th century. The goal is to analyze philosophical, religious, artistic, economic, and political aspects of the region's historical experience. Focus is on China, Korea, and Japan. Topics include East Asian belief systems (including Confucianism and Buddhism), the dynastic cycle, relations between steppe and agrarian societies, warrior and scholar-gentry cultures, technological change and economic development, and the role of class and gender in early East Asian society. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: ASTD 150, ASTD 284, or HIST 284.
Introduction to Modern East Asia
ASTD 285 | 3 Credits
Course Desc: (Formerly HIST 285.) An interdisciplinary survey of East Asia from the late 17th century--beginning with Ming-Qing China, Tokugawa Japan, and Choson Korea--to the present. The objective is to trace how transformations on global, regional, and local levels led to the development of the modern nation-states of East Asia and to examine how those developments affected the culture of the areas. Topics include the rise of imperialism and colonialism; cross-cultural interactions; and issues of gender, class, and ethnicity in East Asian culture. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: ASTD 160, ASTD 285, or HIST 285.
The Two Koreas: Problems and Prospects
ASTD 302 | 3 Credits
Course Desc: Prerequisite: Any writing course. A thematic study of the two Koreas from historical, social, and foreign policy perspectives. The objective is to examine scholarly viewpoints on key issues of Korean history and division; articulate key factors that shape U.S. and regional policy toward North Korea; distinguish between different sources of information on the two Koreas; and interpret regional developments based on knowledge of Korean issues. Topics include the "hermit kingdom" myth; liberation, division, and war; the economic "miracle"; North Korean leadership; South and North Korean foreign relations; North Korea as a nuclear threat; and prospects for a unified Korea. Focus is on developing a stronger understanding of the two Koreas for practical and professional application. Assignments require research, analysis, and a written policy or strategy recommendation.
Interpreting Contemporary China
ASTD 370 | 3 Credits
Course Desc: Prerequisite: Any writing class. Recommended: ASTD 285. A thematic study of contemporary China from political, economic, social, and foreign policy perspectives. The objective is to identify decision-making authorities, interpret major influences on the Chinese economy, appraise the impact of grass-roots social movements, and distinguish factors that drive China's foreign policy. Focus is on developing engagement strategies for various professional applications. Assignments require research, analysis, and a written policy or strategy recommendation (e.g., a policy paper or business strategy plan).
Advanced Special Topics in Asian Studies
ASTD 398 | 3 Credits
Course Desc: An investigation of a special topic, problem, or issue of particular relevance to countries or peoples of the Pacific Rim or Indian Ocean. Typical investigations include historical or contemporary subjects focusing on cultural, economic, military, or political issues. Assignments include advanced reading and research.
East Asian Studies Capstone
ASTD 485 | 3 Credits
Course Desc: Prerequisite: Completion of 24 credits in the major including ASTD 284 and ASTD 285. A project-based interdisciplinary study of East Asia that integrates knowledge gained through previous coursework and experience and builds on that conceptual foundation through integrative analysis, practical application, and critical thinking. Discussion covers emerging issues and current scholarship in East Asian studies. "
