Asian Studies Langara College

Overview

The courses and seminars that give students in-depth insight into the cultures of China, Japan, and Southeast Asia. South Asia and BC Asian societies are also surveyed in some courses. Students who take Asian Studies courses are very well prepared for transfer to Asian Studies and other social science departments in university.

The Asian Studies Program from Langara College is popular with people who have worked or traveled in Asia, and who desire a deeper appreciation of the cultural patterns they have experienced. Many first generation Asian-Canadians and international students find the program insightful regarding their own backgrounds, and how western social science perceives their native culture.

The greatest economic growth in the world is occurring in the Asia-Pacific. These nations are powering the new globalized economy, a situation that will not change in the foreseeable future. Knowledge of their international situations, their lifestyles and their cultural values is the key to creating and maintaining solid relationships with our Pacific neighbours.

Career

Many graduates of the Asian Studies Program who go on to complete their degree in Asian Studies at university find employment in Asian countries, in government, or in local firms dealing with Asia.

Some students have returned from extensive travel or employment in Asia and need deeper background to understand the beliefs and practices they have experienced. After these students return to Asia with the Asian Studies Diploma, Associate of Arts Degree or a Bachelor’s degree from a local university, they take up their former roles with enhanced abilities, opportunities, and recognition.

The ideal goal of Asian Studies program graduates is employment in the federal government’s Department of Foreign Affairs, Industry and Trade. Other governmental positions also require a degree and/or experience in Asia, as do several positions in the BC government.