Asian Studies
Combining language study, overseas experience, and coursework, we provide you with an exciting and rigorous way to study the history and contemporary issues of Asia. Our connection with Portland has its perks too: local resources include the Asian collections at the Portland Art Museum, the Japanese Garden, Lan Su Chinese Garden, and the annual International Film Festival.
Why Choose a Degree in Asian Studies?
Our interdisciplinary program features 15 faculty from 6 departments who will introduce you to the many paths you can take in learning about China, India, Japan, Korea, and the countries of Southeast Asia. Our students graduate with a bachelor of arts in Asian studies after developing the deep knowledge and critical perspectives necessary to understand Asia and its role in the world.
What You’ll Study
The Asian studies curriculum examines the political, economic, social, cultural, environmental, and religious characteristics of the various societies in the region. Classes may focus on a single country, or explore a specific theme in several countries. Possible themes include literature, the arts, environmental studies, gender identities, ethnic and national identities, and social movements. Our program highlights the dynamic, interrelated, and sometimes contentious exchanges among the area’s cultures, politics, and economies.
Many of our students earn course credit on language-intensive and regional area study overseas programs. In addition to general cultural programs that are open to all students, there are programs designed specifically for Asian studies in China, India, Japan, South Korea, Southeast Asia, and Taiwan.
Outside the classroom, Asian studies students attend faculty and guest talks—some recent examples include “Animism, Animators, and Anime,” “Homosexuality and National Security in South Korea,” and “Music, Bollywood, and Migrations: Songs of South Indian Solidarity With Latinidad”—film screenings with faculty-led introductions and discussions, and dance and music performances at Lewis & Clark, at nearby institutions, and in the Portland community.
Complement Your Education With One of These Minors
The most popular minors for our Asian studies majors are Chinese, Japanese, and religious studies.
What Students Are Saying About Lewis & Clark
Leah Marquez BA ’26More about LeahI have absolutely loved taking Introduction to Contemporary Asian Studies and learning about different cultures and religions and how they can play different roles in people’s lives.
Cadyn Schenk-Turner BA ’26More about CadynPursuing an Asian studies minor has truly broadened my educational experience at L&C, and its interdisciplinary approach has enriched my understanding of other fields and disciplines.
Jodi Fallas BA ’25More about JodiMinoring in Asian studies allowed me to take interdisciplinary classes in subjects I would have never considered. As an art history major, the minor fit well with my studies and allowed me to branch out into different specialties without getting off track for graduation!
What Can You Do With a Degree in Asian Studies?
Our alumni use their BA in Asian studies in careers in dozens of fields. Among them are school teachers, artists, college professors, acupuncturists, lawyers, doctors, employees of international companies around the world, gallery curators, and the assistant director of admissions at the Hopkins-Nanjing Center in China.
Dedicated Faculty
Our expert professors are your expert mentors. You will learn directly from faculty (no graduate assistants here!) that are nationally recognized in their fields of study and who love to work with and learn from their students. Your professors will inspire you to be a thoughtful and passionate participant in a diverse world. Your small classes will support you as you explore new ideas, find your voice, and speak your truth.
Invest in Yourself
A private liberal arts education is often more affordable than you think. Last year, Lewis & Clark distributed over $74 million in assistance from institutional, federal, state, and private sources. Additionally, we’re so confident that our first-year students will graduate in four years with their bachelor of arts degree that if you don’t, we’ll cover the extra semester of tuition.
Find Your People
Our student-led Chinese Club gives members the chance to practice and deepen their understanding of Chinese language through regular meetups, and organizes events (including the annual Chinese New Year celebration!) for the whole campus community to learn more about Chinese culture and history.
Kaitlin Hall BA ’19More about KaitlinThe passion I gained for learning at L&C translated extremely well into finding a niche subject in grad school. L&C opened a up a path for me I never knew I could take.
Julia Neely BA ’21More about JuliaL&C offered undergraduate level classes teaching about law in an accessible manner, which I am grateful for as it helped me realize my interest in law.
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