爱荷华大学

Learning Outcomes

Culture and Literature Knowledge

Students will have:

• basic knowledge about the target literature and culture, from premodern to modern and contemporary;
• the cultural foundation and critical thinking skills necessary to engage with relevant primary and secondary materials; and
• the ability to communicate their knowledge of Chinese, Japanese, or South Asian culture and language effectively.

Language Competence

Students are able to:

• carry out tasks in various circumstances and interact with others in different social settings and everyday situations in a culturally appropriate manner;
• understand relatively uncomplicated texts that describe events and personal feelings, while they understand the essence of various types of lengthy, more complex written materials; and
• critically assess materials and produce coherent writing based on the acquired information.

Linguistics Knowledge

Students will have:

• basic knowledge of sociocultural aspects of the language and skills to see through the stereotypes and myths of the target culture in order to have a better understanding of both the target culture and their own.

Overview

The B.A. program in Asian languages and literature gives students the opportunity to develop advanced skills in an Asian language while they study the people, literatures, and cultures of Asia. Students choose one of three tracks: Chinese, Japanese, or Sanskrit.

Students interested in Asian studies may add a second major in international studies with an emphasis in Asian studies; see the B.A. in international studies in the Catalog. Many other disciplines work well as second majors for Asian languages and literature students, such as history, art history, political science, religion, sociology, journalism, business, and anthropology.

The Bachelor of Arts with a major in Asian languages and literature requires a minimum of 120 s.h., including 27-32 s.h. of work for the major. Students choose one of three tracks: Chinese, Japanese, or Sanskrit. Credit required for the major depends on choice of track; requirements for each track are listed below. Students must maintain a g.p.a. of at least 2.00 in all courses for the major and in all UI courses for the major.

Asian languages and literature graduates pursue careers in education, government, communication, business, and other fields in the United States and beyond. The programs also provide an excellent background for advanced study in the humanities and social sciences and in professional schools, such as law and business. The number of Americans who can speak Asian languages is relatively small, so many career opportunities exist for individuals trained in these areas.