The BLA Asian Studies concentration explores the complex interaction between artistic, cultural political, social, literary and religious spheres of life in Asia. Emphasis is placed not only on the diversity and achievements of Asian civilizations, but also on the ways an understanding of Asia may shed new light on western cultural traditions. Asian Studies encompasses the geographical areas of East Asia, South Asia, and Southeast Asia and includes courses that address the Asian American experience. Asian Studies courses are based primarily in the humanities and social sciences, classes other than language courses are taught in English.