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East Asian Studies

The East Asian Studies Program provides opportunities for an interdisciplinary study of East Asia, with a primary focus on the countries of China and Japan. Offering a BA and a Minor in East Asian Studies, the Program is designed to attain three major objectives: offering students an opportunity to acquire accurate, detailed, and comprehensive knowledge of a region that is becoming increasingly important in world affairs; preparing students who are attracted by job opportunities related to East Asia in business, government, or teaching; and providing solid undergraduate training for students who plan to enter East Asian programs in their graduate studies.

The major offers students an opportunity to prepare for positions in cultural organizations, diplomatic offices, companies engaged in international business, and in educational institutions.

Major & Minor Declarations

Students, if you are ready to declare the East Asian Studies major or minor, please complete Section I of following e-form and submit to the EAS advisor (EAS@wwu.edu) for approval: 

Major/Minor Declaration form

Congratulations to the EAS Outstanding Graduates!

Travis is known as an intellectually curious student with an eye for detail. During his time at Western, he was also active coordinating club activities and worked to build a culture of engagement.

It hasn't been an easy road to graduation: Travis had to drop out of college twice to work to avoid homelessness. He also spent time in the foster care system during his youth. 

Now, Travis plans to continue his studies at Western in order to become an English language teacher. This summer, he'll work on individual research projects and spend more time with his son Leon, 11.

Learn more about other CHSS outstanding grads on Western's Facebook page.  

Emmalene has received unanimous support from the East Asian Studies faculty. A double major in Chinese, with minors in Intl. Studies and Psychology, Emmalene is described by faculty as a role model student: she is smart, motivated, and extremely diligent. Faculty praise in particular her excellent leadership and organizational skills. She has a strong work ethic, a truly excellent academic record, and her passion and dedication to the study of Asian cultures are second to none. Beyond her academic achievements, which are noteworthy, Emmalene has also served our campus community with distinction. She is the Founding President of WWU Chinese Conversation Club, an Officer of WWU Global Ambassador Club, and has also served as Peer Advisor for the Education Abroad Office. She has also been the recipient of our Sarah Ann Wirth Scholarship. Emmalene is positive, engaging, and has superior critical skills. Her short-term plans include working in China and attending graduate school, and we very much look forward to her future contributions in the field. 

Learn more about Emmalene and the other CHSS Outstanding Graduates in  Western Today

Contact Us!

If you have questions or would like to request additional information about the program, please send us an email: EAS@wwu.edu

Scholarships

Check out the available EAS and WWU Scholarship Opportunities