skip navigation

This page is designed for modern browsers. You will have a better experience with a better browser.

Brown Home Brown Home Brown University Brown University Brown University Brown University CustomHome

East Asian Studies Concentration

This multidisciplinary concentration is designed to serve undergraduate students wishing to attain reasonable fluency in Chinese and Japanese and specialized familiarity with selected East Asian subjects. The concentration serves students with two different types of professional and academic interests: those who wish to pursue active professional careers related to the East Asian region; and those who will continue their education at the graduate level in the humanities or social sciences with special emphasis on China or Japan.

Language study through the levels of Chinese 0600 or Japanese 0600 or their equivalents is a prerequisite. (At this time, Korean Language may not be offered for concentration.) History 0410 and 0420, five additional courses on East Asia, chosen from various disciplines at advanced levels, plus the Senior Project (EAST 1990 or a designated capstone course) constitute the concentration program.

Students are required to complete one course, normally a 1000-level or above, focusing on an East Asian culture outside their area of concentration (Japan or China). The Senior Project, or alternatively the Honors Thesis, will provide all concentrators with a culminating academic experience. Students admitted to the honors program will be expected to complete EA 1930-1940 in addition to the standard seven courses.

Concentrators are strongly encouraged, but not required, to study in East Asia for one or two semesters during their undergraduate years.

Concentration advisors will guide and supervise in the planning of individual concentrations to ensure the development of coherent programs of study.

The East Asian Studies concentration is available as an undergraduate concentration only. Those interested in advanced studies must contact The Graduate School to determine which department would best suit their area of study.