Overview

The East Asian Studies programme at Western Washington University provides a rigorous interdisciplinary framework for exploring the complex cultural and political landscapes of East Asia. Students engage in a curriculum that primarily examines China and Japan, with additional opportunities to study the regions of Korea and Mongolia.

This degree is designed to meet three primary objectives for undergraduate students. It offers the chance to gain detailed and accurate knowledge of a region that holds increasing significance in global affairs and international relations. Furthermore, it equips students with the practical skills required for professional roles in business, government, or education.

For those intending to pursue further academic research, the programme serves as a robust foundation for graduate-level study.

Why East Asian Studies at Western Washington University?

The programme is supported by a diverse faculty from across the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, creating a collaborative environment for teaching and research. This collective expertise provides students with a unique nexus of academic support and specialised insight into the region's growing economies.

Students benefit from exceptional resources, including the Western Libraries Mongolia Collection, which features extensive holdings on Inner Asia. The Center for East Asian Studies also hosts an Annual Student Colloquium and various international conferences, fostering a vibrant community for intellectual exchange and professional networking.

Financial support is available through dedicated awards such as the Henry G. Schwarz Scholarship in Mongolian Studies and the Sarah Anne Wirth Scholarship. These opportunities, alongside the Diana Wright Research Paper Award, encourage high academic achievement and specialised research amongst the student body.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 27690 per year
National fee: USD 27690 per year
Local fee: USD 8523 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

East Asian Studies
History
Global Humanities and Religions
Sociology
Japanese
Anthropology
Chinese Language and Culture
Art History
Mongolian Studies

Careers with East Asian Studies

Graduates are prepared for a variety of professional paths within cultural organisations, diplomatic offices, and educational institutions. The programme's focus on international perspectives makes it particularly suitable for those seeking roles in companies engaged in global business and trade.

Recent alumni from the university have secured positions with notable organisations such as Borderlink, Inc. in Japan and the Business Council for International Understanding in Washington D.C. The degree provides the cultural competency and analytical skills necessary to succeed in diverse international industries.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

East Asia: Society and Environment

Pacific Rim

Chinese History to 600 Ad

Chinese History: 1800 to Present

Premodern Japanese History

Modern Japanese History

Medieval and Early-Modern Chinese History

Modern Chinese Social History

The Chinese Revolution

Early Modern Japan

Women in Japanese History

Japanese Military History: Samurai Fact and Fiction

Religion in Japanese History

International Business

Topics in International Business

Japanese Culture Through Film

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-07 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-09-15 00:00:00
Starting 2027-04-01 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-01 00:00:00
Starting 2027-09-24 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-31 00:00:00

More details

Language

English

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

180 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Bellingham, United States

Disciplines

Language Studies Asian studies View 2636 other Bachelors in Language Studies in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

105

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IELTS

6.5

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Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

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98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

The International Student Application for Admission

$60 non-refundable application fee

An essay that helps the Admissions Committee understand your academic goals, related experiences and/or preparatory course work, and professional goals

Official academic credentials

Evidence of English language proficiency

Statement of Financial Responsibility

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

27690 USD / year

≈ 27690 USD / year
Out-of-State

27690 USD / year

≈ 27690 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

8523 USD / year

≈ 8523 USD / year

Living costs

Bellingham

United States

1109 - 1684 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for East Asian Studies.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Bellingham

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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