undergraduate
East Asian languages and literature
Best schools with East Asian languages and literature
What is an East Asian languages and literature major?
This more general program focuses on one or more of the languages of East Asia, including but not limited to the Sino-Tibetan, Japanese, and Korean languages. Course instruction includes philology, linguistics, dialects and pidgins, literature, and applications to business, science/technology, and other settings.
of students said a highlight of this major was the exposure to diverse perspectives.
of students found this major to be difficult.
of students said they were motivated to select this major because it fit their passion & interest.
of students and alumni plan on being or are currently employed in an occupation related to this major.
How much do East Asian languages and literature majors make?
This data isn't currently reported, but we're working on it!
How popular is East Asian languages and literature as a major?
Each year, around 340 students obtain a bachelor’s degree and fewer than 5 students obtain an associate degree in East Asian languages and literature. In 2021, 311 students received a bachelor's degree and 6 students received an associate degree. This is 5% more East Asian languages and literature majors than there were in 2020. East Asian languages and literature is a relatively uncommon major within foreign languages.
Advice from East Asian languages and literature majors
Share your experienceThere will always be concern in terms of where you can go career-wise with East Asian Studies and similar degrees, but don't let this stop you from learning about something you find interesting or are passionate about! Learning a new language will also be challenging, but worthwhile in terms of your outlook on the world, understanding of cultural influence on business, as well as provide you with a usefull skill of bilingualism for any future career. It's a lot of reading, researching, and response but worth studying with how it will change your character and skillset.
Per the language requirements, you are going to have a primary culture to focus your studies on. However, don't let that stop you from diversifying your classes. Im focusing on Korean and made the mistake to not look into other regions as well until meeting with professors specialized in Sanskirt and Japanese history. They've helped me realize there's a ton of overlap in the "non-related" classes with my Korean knowledge, as well as giving useful context to historical events I would've overlooked prior. Take classes that center around a variety of Asian cultures and you'll get a lot more out your studies.
Start studying early. Read newspaper articles in Korean and expose yourself to difficult vocabulary.
