Nov 29, 2025  
2025-2026 Western Washington University Catalog 
    
2025-2026 Western Washington University Catalog

East Asian Studies, BA

Location(s): WWU - Bellingham


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Introduction

The course of study is designed to attain three major objectives. First, it offers students an opportunity to acquire accurate, detailed and comprehensive knowledge of a region that is becoming increasingly important in world affairs. Second, it prepares students who are attracted by job opportunities related to East Asia in business and government. For those who wish to teach about East Asia, the Program provides appropriate preparation. Third, it provides solid undergraduate training for students who plan to enter East Asian programs in their graduate studies.

Why Consider an East Asian Studies Major?

The Program in East Asian Studies offers interdisciplinary study of the area, primarily the countries of China and Japan. Under special advisement, Korea and Mongolia are also subjects for study. The major offers students an opportunity to prepare for positions in cultural organizations, diplomatic offices, companies engaged in international business, and in educational institutions.

Student Resources

Department website: East Asian Studies

Contact information: Emi Bushelle, major information director, Bond Hall 344, 360-650-4954, foulke@wwu.edu; Dylan Gibson, program coordinator, Miller Hall 223, 360-650-7779, gibsond6@wwu.edu

Degree Works: Current students should also log on to Degree Works to check student-specific program progress.

Career Services Center: Connect major to a career

Sample Careers: International Consultant, International Business Manager, International Sales, Foreign News Correspondent, Tour Guide/Agent, Museum Administrator, Librarian/Information Specialist, Foreign Service Worker, FBI/CIA Agent, Intelligence Researcher, Cultural Officer, Foreign Diplomat, Immigration Agent, College Professor, Secondary Education Teacher

How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):

To declare the major, schedule an appointment with Director Emi Bushelle. The Director will review with you the complete process for designing your major by showing you options of core courses, language courses, and electives in the area of Asian Studies that is of particular interest to you.

Grade Requirements

A grade of C- or better is required for a student’s major or minor courses, and supporting courses for majors and minors.

Requirements (60 credits)


Language Requirement (30 credits maximum)


❑ Two years of Chinese or Japanese language (Mongolian or Korean by special arrangement) from the following. A maximum of 30 language credits may apply.

Electives (12 credits minimum)


❑ Additional credits from courses approved by the Center for East Asian Studies as listed below: (At least 8 credits must be at the 400 level)

Art History


East Asian Studies


Environmental Studies


Languages, Literatures, and Cultures


Political Science


Religion


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