The University of Oregon’s Asian Studies Program emphasizes interdisciplinary study in Asian languages, history, society and culture, art and literature, politics, and economics. Established in 1942, the Asian Studies Program is one of the oldest interdisciplinary programs in the United States to focus on Asia.
Congratulations, Graduating Ducks!
You’ve put in the work and earned the diploma. Now let’s celebrate! On June 15, join your fellow CAS Ducks for this year’s CAS commencement ceremony. Head over to the 2026 CAS Commencement website where you can find ceremony details for each CAS ceremony, logistics and any other answers to all your questions about the big day.
A huge thank you to Portland real estate developer, philanthropist and UO alumnus Jordan Schnitzer and the Harold & Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation, for a landmark $25 million gift to CAS that will empower future global leaders and problem solvers! The School of Global Studies and Languages is now named the Schnitzer School of Global Studies and Languages, and we are truly excited to be a part of it!
What You Can Do with a Degree in Asian Studies
A degree in Asian Studies gives you a range of options nationally and abroad. Alumni have enjoyed successful careers in:
- Academia
- Consulting
- Economics
- Government service
- Journalism
- Law
- Marketing
- Media
- Museum administration and curation
- Research
- Teaching
Our Degree Programs
Undergraduate students have options to major in Asian Studies or to minor in East Asian Studies, South Asian Studies, or Southeast Asian Studies. Graduate students may choose to pursue a master of arts degree or to specialize in Asian Studies.
Meet Alisa Freedman
Professor Alisa Freedman specializes in Japanese literature, cultural studies, gender, and popular culture. Her course ASIA 399: Japanese Popular Culture covers iconic figures in Japanese pop culture, including Pokémon and Hello Kitty. And she has her students examine those figures alongside the University of Oregon Duck.
Learn from Experts in the Field
The Asian Studies faculty encompasses a breadth of knowledges across departments, disciplines, countries, and cultures. Learn more about them, their research, and their publications.
Get Real-world Experience
Our students extend their learning beyond the classroom through numerous experiential learning opportunities. Immerse yourself in another culture while studying abroad, develop vital job skills in an internship, or conduct original research on a topic that sparks your interest. The UO offers programs in Asia from a semester abroad to a full year at an Asian university.
Scholarships and Funding
Students in the Asian Studies Program can apply for funding through the College of Arts and Sciences and the Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships.
Academic Support
Our academic advisors can help students understand their major or minor requirements, plan their course of study, explore study abroad opportunities, and more.
