You Are Here
The 21st century will be shaped by the growing political and economic power of Asian nations.
Department Chair:
Todd Munson, Ph.D.
Phone: 804-752-7250
E-mail: tmunson@rmc.edu
Asian Studies
China and Japan are now the world's 2nd- and 3rd-largest economies, and more than half of the world's population lives in Asia. From the economy to education to environmental issues, the nations of Asia are expected to play a dominant role in the 21st century. Asian Studies explores the history, culture and future of this richly multifaceted region.
Comprehensive major: The Asian Studies curriculum draws together the individual strands of history, religion, art, culture and language to develop in students a nuanced and in-depth perspective.
Visiting scholars: The annual J. Earl Moreland Lecture on Asia each spring brings a visiting expert for a three-day program of classes and a public lecture.
Study abroad: Students in the Asian Studies major are encouraged to consider a study-abroad experience. Students may take advantage of January-term travel classes as well as semester- or year-abroad programs in Japan and Korea.
Language study: A language requirement is part of the Asian Studies major, and both Chinese and Japanese language courses, from introductory to advanced levels, are available on campus.
| "My liberal arts education has made me a well-rounded person."
When Arianna Relph ’09 enrolled in Professor Thomas Porter’s Modern China course, she didn’t expect it would change the course of her future. One day in class, however, Professor Porter handed out flyers about teaching abroad—and though Arianna had never before travelled outside the U.S., following graduation she found herself teaching in Korea. At first, she admits, immersion in an unfamiliar language and culture could feel overwhelming. “The experience definitely will make you live outside your comfort zone,” she says. However, she adds, “If you learn to embrace the experience, you will love it. I not only got to learn a lot about Korea, I also had the opportunity to travel to China and Taiwan and I got to know many wonderful people from English speaking countries around the world.” Now completing a master’s degree in information science, Arianna says of her R-MC education, ‘The part I appreciate most is the support from the faculty, which went beyond the classroom. They always made themselves available to give you extra help, plan your future, or just be there when you needed someone to talk to. I feel like I could still go to my professors from R-MC for anything.” |