Asian Studies Major

As home to more than half the world's population and several of its largest and most vibrant economies, Asia also contains three of the world's most recent nuclear weapons states, several ongoing or potential conflicts, and an increasingly large share of human activity that affects the natural environment. The Asian Studies program trains students to understand and engage this world, helping them to grasp a civilization with a long and rich history.

The program begins with a basic disciplinary foundation that helps students understand any aspect of international affairs, with coursework in history, political science, economics, and anthropology. At the same time, students begin to develop their language skills, helping them deepen their understanding of the region. Almost all of our students spend a year abroad, learning about Asia from programs in New Delhi, Shanghai, Sendai, Sydney, or Kuala Lumpur. Returning to GW, they take specialized courses that help them deepen their understanding of the politics, culture, and economy or the region.

Program Director:

Shawn McHale
Email: mchale@gwu.edu