The undergraduate program in Asian studies is designed for students desiring a liberal arts education and a broad background in traditional and contemporary Asian cultures. You can declare a major or minor in Asian Studies. Asian Studies (ASAN) is concerned with the people and countries in the broad arc of Asia extending from Afghanistan in the west to China, Japan and Korea in the east and including the Philippines and other islands and peninsulas of Southeast Asia to the south. Most students focus on one of the following countries and regions: China, Japan, Korea, the Philippines, South Asia, and Southeast Asia. All students are encouraged to study the language of that country or region up to and beyond the second-year level. Choose from a broad background in traditional and contemporary Asian cultures, emphasizing an interdisciplinary approach. You can take not only Asian Studies courses, but also other Asia-related courses in other departments: anthropology, art, economics, geography, history, linguistics, literature, music, philosophy, political science, religion, sociology, theater and dance, and urban and regional planning.<br>Create a unique program of study tailored to your particular interests. The undergraduate advisor will assist you to design your program with a wide array of Asian Studies and Asia-related courses. For instance, you may concentrate on Japan by taking courses in the arts and humanities. Or you may study Southeast Asia with a focus on the social sciences.<br>Participate in study abroad programs to enhance your language skills and immerse yourself in the cultures of your interest. The University of Hawaii at Manoa Study Abroad Center sponsors several study abroad programs in Asia and makes it easy to earn UHM credits. Other programs for studying in Asian countries can be arranged with the assistance of the faculty and the Asian Studies Advisor. These courses may also be used to fulfill your degree requirements.