Why study Asian Studies?

Asia is gaining increasing economic and strategic prominence in the world, and Asian countries have rich and fascinating cultures and heritages. Asian studies is an interdisciplinary major that explores the languages, cultures, economics, history, geography and politics of Asian countries. Students often combine an Asian studies degree or certificate with another major field of study. Students may also study abroad in Asia, pursue internships and apply for fellowships. 

Admission Requirements

Freshman applicants, please visit the Admission Requirements page for more information.

Asian studies majors are fluent in one or two Asian languages and have in-depth knowledge about Asia. Their course work prepares them to think critically, communicate effectively, work across cultures and draw upon multiple disciplines in examining issues.

American businesses, governmental and nongovernmental organizations are deeply involved in Asia, yet there are not enough American professionals who are knowledgeable about the region. A degree or certificate in Asian studies, especially when combined with another field of study, makes students highly sought in an increasingly global marketplace. In addition to being well-prepared for graduate school, graduates of the program have gone on to pursue careers such as:  

  • Teaching in an Asian country
  • Working with U.S. firms interested in Asia
  • Research and analysis

An undergraduate minor in Asian studies is offered for students majoring in another area. It is offered to students in any college at the University of Cincinnati. Students not pursuing a bachelor’s degree are awarded a certificate.

For more information please contact the program director, whose name and information appear on this page.

Asian studies at UC is an interdisciplinary major that explores the languages, cultures, economics, history, geography and politics of Asian countries. By taking courses from several disciplines, students acquire a variety of analytical tools and examine issues and problems from multiple perspectives. Expertise in languages, courses from many disciplines and study-abroad opportunities in Asia are important aspects of the Asian studies experience at UC.

Internships, Co-op and Study Abroad Opportunities

Students may contact UC's Institute for Global Studies, the Experience-Based Learning and Career Education and view the UC College of Arts and Sciences internships Web page for information on study abroad and internships.

Students have pursued internships in organizations such as

  • The Global Center of Cincinnati
  • The Japan America Society of Greater Cincinnati
  • The Cincinnati Chinese Chamber of Commerce

To graduate from the UC College of Arts and Sciences, students must:

  • Earn at least 120 credits. This can include transfer credit, AP credit and free electives, but does not include preparatory coursework. Students who have met all other degree requirements must continue earning credit until the total number of their earned hours comes to at least 120.
  • Attain a 2.0 grade point average for all courses taken at the University of Cincinnati.
  • Be in good academic standing, that is, not on either academic probation or disciplinary probation or suspension.
  • Complete the residency requirement by earning at least 30 credits after matriculating into the university.
  • Complete all of the requirements of at least one major (see major requirements above).
  • Complete the College Core Requirements.
  • Submit an application for graduation to the registrar's office by their posted deadline.

Admission to A&S is generally available for any off-campus student who was admissible directly from high school and has 2.0 GPA cum and a 2.0 in the most recent institution.

Students who were not admissible directly from high school must have:

  • 24 semester (36 quarter) hours earned
  • at least a 2.0 GPA cum and a 2.0 at most recent institution

Transfer students should apply using our transfer student online application

University transfer scholarships are available to those who meet specific requirements and ANY admitted A&S transfer student might qualify for an A&S transfer scholarship. Deadlines and eligibility criteria are online via the previous links.

For any inquiries please contact us at artsci@ucmail.uc.edu

International applicants, please visit the International Admissions page for more information.

The University of Cincinnati and all regional campuses are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Contact Information

Junko Markovich
4212 Clifton Court Hall
Cincinnati, OH 45221-0372
(513) 556-2735
junko.markovic@uc.edu

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Program Code: 15BAC-AIST-BA