Major Description

Through East Asian Languages and Cultures (EALC), students will gain a firm competence in an East Asian language, a solid familiarity with East Asian cultures through cross-disciplinary training, and a more advanced knowledge of the region. The major and minor programs equip students with the knowledge and skills for careers in a variety of fields and prepare students who are interested in seeking a broad liberal arts education needed for graduate or professional study involving East Asia. EALC majors may also expand their intellectual horizon and enrich cross-disciplinary training via double-major programs in the LAS or dual degree across colleges.

Concentrations

There are two concentrations offered through East Asian Languages and Cultures.

Courses That Introduce the Major

• EALC 114 – Introduction to East Asian Art
• EALC 120—East Asian Civilization
• EALC 130 – The Chinese Language
• EALC 230 – Popular Cultures of Contemporary East Asia
• EALC 275 – Masterpieces of East Asian Literature

Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.

Possible Career Opportunities

A number of different careers are possible with a degree in East Asian Languages and Cultures.

Enhancing Your Academic Experience

• Participating in undergraduate research
• Applying for a study abroad experience
• Utilizing resources of The Career Center and the Humanities Professional Resource Center
• Participating in events at The Center for East Asian and Pacific Studies
• Participating in events at the Japan House
• Utilizing resources for EALC students
• Joining a Registered Student Organization (RSO) related to this major, such as:
  • Chinese Students and Scholars Association: Promotes enjoyment of companion animals through related activities, such as volunteer opportunities and social events, while providing career and educational resources for its members.
  • Illini Japanese Association: helps people understand the Japanese culture and/or language better, as well as helps communities exchange ideas and views regarding Japan and new Illinois students from Japan. The association also provides a strong bridge for Illinois students who seek internship or job opportunities in Japan or with Japanese companies.
  • Korean Cultural Center: raises awareness and appreciation of Korean culture and functions as a place to foster multiculturalism and inter-cultural exchanges in the United States.

Further Information

There are several professional organizations dedicated to East Asian Languages and Cultures, such as the Asian American Institute.

Major Description

Firmly rooted in the humanities, social sciences, and the arts, the central objective of the major in African American Studies (AAS) is to provide students with a transdiciplinary perspective on the origin, role and policy implications of race in the United States and world political economy, society and culture, over time. AAS students will learn diverse concepts, theories and methodologies for analyzing the experiences and perspectives and the cultural and intellectual production of African Americans and African descended people, largely though not exclusively in the United States. 

An African American studies major will be encouraged to achieve excellence in developing vital creative and critical competencies, including oral and written communication, computer and statistical skills. Students majoring in AAS will also be encouraged to join a new generation of leadership grounded in African American studies knowledge and committed to public engagement to meet the continuing challenges of a diverse democratic society; and to foster national discourse to produce public policy aimed at achieving social justice.

Courses That Introduce the Major

• AFRO 100—Introduction to African American Studies
• AFRO 103—Black Women in the Diaspora
• AFRO 105—Black Literature in America

Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.

Possible Career Opportunities

This program prepares students for graduate study and research in traditional disciplines and interdisciplinary fields and for careers in the private or public sectors such as teaching, social work, human resources, criminal justice, management and administration, city planning, marketing, policy-making, medicine and law. 

Enhancing Your Academic Experience

• Participating in undergraduate research
• Applying for a study abroad experience
• Utilizing resources of The Career Center
• Joining a Registered Student Organization (RSO) related to this major, such as:
  • African Cultural Association: Works to dispel the myths and stereotypes that exist regarding Africa and its people. To promote awareness and educate the community about different issues affecting Africa today.

Further Information

There are several professional organizations dedicated to African American Studies.  Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of African American Studies.  These organizations include Association for the Study of the African American Life and History and the National Association of African American Studies.