Why study Asia?

Asia is important demographically: 57% of the world's population lives in Asia.
Asia is important economically: Asian economies represent approximately 1/3 of the World Gross National Product. Since the early 1980’s the US has done more trade across the Pacific than across the Atlantic. More than 80% of the U.S. global trade deficit is with Asian countries.
Asia is important historically: Asia is the birthplace of major world religions and belief systems including Hinduism, Buddhism, Shinto, and Confucianism. Asian civilizations and American concerns have been intertwined through history.
Asia is important culturally: Asian societies have made innumerable and fascinating contributions in architecture, art, textiles, landscape, theatre, music, dance, and film.

Asia-knowledge significantly enhances your employment prospects, and the opportunities to work internationally. Students with Asia-knowledge are highly valued in government, in policy analysis, throughout commerce and service industries.