About

Professors from a broad spectrum of academic departments work together in the East Asian Studies Program to provide a nexus for teaching and research focused on China and Japan. Contributing members represent colleges and departments from across the campus community, including the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, the College of Fine and Performing Arts, and the College of the Environment . The Program serves as a focal point for Western Washington University's interaction with East Asia, and an arena for vibrant intellectual cross-pollination from a variety of disciplines. From an academic perspective, it helps promote rigorous training in the study of East Asia and Inner Asia. With Asian economies, languages, cultures, and political realities continuing to rank high in global importance, diverse expertise in this region is an essential asset for any university. The opportunity for students to receive degrees in East Asian Studies represents an important aspect of the university curriculum.

Beyond the Classroom

The East Asia Studies Program hosts the Annual Student Symposium, along with national and international conferences on Japanese literature and East Asian studies. East Asian Studies sponsors lectures, presentations, and other activities related to East Asia for both students and the community.

Western Libraries features the Mongolia Collection, an extensive collection of holdings on Mongolia and Inner Asia. 

Students in the East Asian Studies program are eligible for scholarships that promote the study of Inner Asia and East Asia, including the Sarah Ann Wirth Scholarship in East Asian Studies and History, and the Diana Wright Research Paper in East Asian Studies Award.

Impact

Your gift to East Asian Studies will fund student-faculty research, guest speakers, travel to conferences, career networking opportunities and most importantly, scholarships. During the 2021/22 year, over $2600 in scholarship dollars was awarded! On behalf of our students and faculty, thank you for your generosity in supporting students in East Asian Studies!