The Department of East Asian Languages and Cultures (EALC) is a multidisciplinary and multicultural department that aims to provide students with an enhanced understanding of Chinese, Japanese, and Korean languages and cultures. The major in East Asian Studies includes at least two years of language training in one of the three East Asian languages (EALC-C/J/K 202 or higher), in addition to course work in various aspects of East Asian society and culture. East Asian Studies majors must take coursework covering at least two of the three cultural areas (China, Japan, and/or the Koreas). The East Asian Studies major has been designed as a flexible program for students who want basic language training as well as the opportunity to study a variety of topics and approaches to the culture and history of the entire East Asian region. The major is suitable for students pursuing careers in business, international relations, international law, cultural exchanges, and other occupations with a focus on East Asia.

Students are urged to study abroad in China, Japan, or Korea on one of IUB’s overseas study programs.

Students who have mastered the languages of China, Japan, or Korea and have a corresponding understanding of their cultures are in high demand in business (especially international communications and finance), government and diplomacy, and other opportunities in political related fields, not to mention a variety of nonprofit organizations, international law, and translation work. In addition, there are more opportunities each year for teaching the East Asian languages in K-12 schools. For those students interested in teaching either Chinese or Japanese in K-12 schools, they should strongly consider studying their chosen language through the third year level or beyond.

For detailed information about degree requirements, visit the most recent College of Arts & Sciences Academic Bulletin.