Exploring East Asian Studies at Dartmouth College

July 3, 2023
By AdmissionSight

Exploring East Asian Studies at Dartmouth College

Do you have a fascination with East Asian cultures? Are you curious about the language, history, and society of countries like China, Japan, and Korea? Look no further than Dartmouth College’s East Asian Studies program! In this comprehensive program, students can immerse themselves in all aspects of East Asian culture, language, and history. Let’s take a deep dive into what makes this program so special.

What is East Asian Studies?

East Asian Studies is the interdisciplinary study of the countries, cultures, and societies of East Asia. This encompasses a wide range of subjects, from language and literature to history, philosophy, politics, and economics. In the Dartmouth College program, students not only study each of these subjects individually but also explore the connections between them to gain a holistic understanding of East Asian culture and society.

One unique aspect of the Dartmouth College East Asian Studies program is its emphasis on experiential learning. Students have the opportunity to study abroad in East Asia, participate in internships with East Asian organizations, and engage in research projects that allow them to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. These experiences not only deepen students’ understanding of East Asian culture and society, but also prepare them for careers in fields such as international relations, business, and academia.

The History of East Asian Studies at Dartmouth College

The East Asian Studies program at Dartmouth College has a long and rich history. It was founded in 1941, making it one of the oldest programs of its kind in the United States. Since then, it has grown in size and scope, attracting students and faculty members from around the world. Today, the program is housed within the Department of Asian and Middle Eastern Languages and Literatures, which offers a range of language courses in Chinese, Japanese, and Korean.

japanese parasols

Over the years, the East Asian Studies program at Dartmouth College has produced many notable alumni who have gone on to make significant contributions in various fields. These include business leaders, diplomats, academics, and artists. The program has also established partnerships with universities in East Asia, providing opportunities for students to study abroad and engage in cultural exchange programs.

In recent years, the East Asian Studies program has expanded its focus to include contemporary issues such as globalization, environmental sustainability, and social justice. The program has also incorporated interdisciplinary approaches, collaborating with other departments such as economics, history, and sociology. As a result, students in the program are equipped with a broad range of skills and knowledge that prepare them for careers in a variety of fields.

The Faculty of the East Asian Studies Department

One of the strengths of the East Asian Studies program at Dartmouth College is its exceptional faculty. The program boasts several distinguished scholars and experts in the field, who are dedicated to providing students with the best possible education. In addition, faculty members are actively engaged in research, both in the United States and abroad, which allows them to bring the most up-to-date information and perspectives to their teaching.

Furthermore, the faculty of the East Asian Studies Department is committed to promoting cultural exchange and understanding. Many of the professors have lived and worked in East Asia, and bring their personal experiences and insights into the classroom. They also encourage students to participate in study abroad programs and internships in East Asia, providing them with opportunities to immerse themselves in the culture and language of the region. This emphasis on experiential learning and cross-cultural communication sets the East Asian Studies program at Dartmouth apart from other programs in the field.

a professor in front of his class

The Curriculum of the East Asian Studies Program

The East Asian Studies program at Dartmouth College is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in all aspects of East Asian culture and society. This includes a range of courses in language, literature, history, philosophy, politics, and economics. In addition, students have the opportunity to take courses in other departments, such as Anthropology, Art History, Government, and Sociology, which complement their study of East Asian culture and society.

One unique aspect of the East Asian Studies program at Dartmouth College is the opportunity for students to participate in study abroad programs in East Asia. These programs allow students to immerse themselves in the culture and language of the region, and gain firsthand experience of the topics they have studied in the classroom.

Another important component of the East Asian Studies program is the research opportunities available to students. Under the guidance of faculty members, students can conduct independent research projects on topics related to East Asian culture and society. This provides students with valuable research skills and experience and also contributes to the broader academic community’s understanding of East Asia.

Study Abroad Opportunities for East Asian Studies Majors

One of the most exciting opportunities available to students in the East Asian Studies program at Dartmouth College is the chance to study abroad in an East Asian country. The program offers study abroad options in China, Japan, and Korea, where students can immerse themselves in the language, culture, and society of these countries. This not only allows students to improve their language skills but also to gain a deeper understanding of East Asian culture and society through firsthand experience.

Furthermore, the East Asian Studies program at Dartmouth College provides various scholarships and grants to support students who wish to study abroad. These financial aids cover a significant portion of the expenses associated with studying abroad, including airfare, tuition fees, and living expenses. This makes studying abroad more accessible and affordable for students who may not have the financial means to do so otherwise.

Student Organizations for East Asian Studies Majors at Dartmouth College

Several student organizations on campus cater to the interests of students in the East Asian Studies program at Dartmouth College. These organizations provide students with opportunities to connect with their peers, learn more about East Asian culture and society, and engage in activities such as language exchange programs, cultural events, and guest speaker series. Some of the organizations include the Chinese Culture Society, the Japan Society, and the Korean Students Association.

Group of students walking in the campus.

In addition to these organizations, there are also opportunities for students to participate in study abroad programs in East Asia. Dartmouth College offers a variety of programs in countries such as China, Japan, and South Korea, allowing students to immerse themselves in the culture and language of the region. These programs provide students with a unique opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of East Asian society and to develop language skills that will be valuable in their future careers.

Furthermore, the East Asian Studies program at Dartmouth College also hosts several events throughout the year, including lectures, film screenings, and cultural festivals. These events are open to all students and provide a platform for discussion and engagement with East Asian culture and society. They also offer opportunities for students to network with professionals in the field and to gain a better understanding of the career paths available to them after graduation.

Career Opportunities for East Asian Studies Graduates

Graduates of the East Asian Studies program at Dartmouth College have a wide range of career opportunities available to them. Many graduates go on to pursue careers in fields such as education, government, law, international business, and journalism. Some students also choose to pursue advanced degrees in fields such as East Asian Studies, Linguistics, or Anthropology.

Additionally, graduates of the East Asian Studies program at Dartmouth College have the opportunity to work in various non-profit organizations that focus on promoting cultural exchange and understanding between East Asia and the United States. These organizations include the Japan Society, the Korea Society, and the China Institute. Graduates can also work in international development organizations that focus on East Asia, such as the Asian Development Bank or the United Nations Development Programme.

Research Opportunities in East Asian Studies at Dartmouth College

The East Asian Studies program at Dartmouth College also provides students with the opportunity to engage in research on a variety of topics related to East Asian culture and society. This includes independent research projects, senior theses, and research assistantships with faculty members. Students can also participate in research conferences and present their findings at national and international events.

A high school student honoring Harvard's honor code by taking responsibility for his own learning.

Furthermore, the East Asian Studies program at Dartmouth College offers students access to a wide range of resources to support their research endeavors. The program has a dedicated library with an extensive collection of books, journals, and other materials related to East Asian studies. Additionally, students have access to specialized databases and research tools to aid in their research. The program also offers funding opportunities for students to conduct research abroad, allowing them to gain firsthand experience and insights into East Asian culture and society.

As you can see, the East Asian Studies program at Dartmouth College provides students with an exceptional education in all aspects of East Asian culture, society, and language. Whether you are interested in pursuing a career in the field, want to deepen your understanding of East Asian culture, or simply want to broaden your horizons, this program has something to offer everyone. With its renowned faculty, comprehensive curriculum, and exciting study-abroad opportunities, the East Asian Studies program at Dartmouth College is truly one of a kind.

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