About Asian Studies

Explore the diversities and commonalities of Asian cultures and society, focusing primarily on arts, religion, languages, popular culture and history of the regions of East Asia, South East Asia, and The Middle East

The Asian Studies Certificate integrates area studies and ethnic studies, using interdisciplinary methodologies. It appeals to a broad range of students including international students, students interested in tourism or global business, artists, and students wanting to know more about their cultures of origin. The program serves primarily students who are transferring to a four-year university but additionally offers professional development for employers, as well as community-based organizations serving global audiences.

Program Options 

Click on the degree or certificate you're interested in earning to see a sample map of courses to take to complete your goal from start to finish.

Please note that the course maps provided are just an example to help you get started. Please meet with a counselor to personalize the plan to you and your Academic goals.

View Requirements in College Catalog

Choose one of the following Arts courses:

Course Number Course Title Units Notes
ASIA 11 East Asian Calligraphy: An Introduction 3  
ART 104 Asian Art History 3  

Total Units: 3 

Choose two of the following Humanities courses:

Course Number Course Title Units Notes
ASIA 15 Asian Societies and Cultures through Film 3  
ASIA 30 Manga and Anime 3  
IDST 27B Asian Humanities: Contemporary 3  

Total Units: 6 

Choose one of the following Social and Behavioral Science courses:

Course Number Course Title Units Notes
IDST 30 Demystifying the Middle East 3  
IDST 31 Women and Gender in the Middle East 3  

Total Units: 3

Choose one of the following elective courses, if not used above:

Course Number Course Title Units Notes
ART 104 Asian Art History 3  
ASIA 11 East Asian Calligraphy: An Introduction 3  
ASIA 15 Asian Societies and Cultures through Film 3  
ASIA 30 Manga and Anime 3  
CHIN 33 Chinese Culture for Heritage Learners 3  
CHIN 38 Translation Foundation in Chinese 3  
IDST 27B Asian Humanities: Contemporary 3  
IDST 30 Demystifying the Middle East 3  
IDST 31 Women and Gender in the Middle East 3  
JAPA 39 Japanese Culture and Civilization 3  
MUS 24 Music of East Asia 3  

Total Units: 3

Overall Total Units: 15

Transfer Options

The program coursework you complete for the Asian Studies Certificate can be used to satisfy lower-division requirements for related majors at several colleges and universities.

Have questions about transfer? Visit the Transfer Center for help, transfer information, and/or to speak with college representatives.