Asian Studies

ASIA 199, 299, 399, 499. Independent Study (1-4E)

This course consists of an independent creative or research project designed by the student and supervised by an Asian Studies faculty member. The nature of the project, the schedule for accomplishment and the means of evaluation must be formalized in a learning contract prior to registration.

ASIA 200. Introduction to Asian Studies (4F)

This team-taught interdisciplinary course introduces students to the civilizations of Asia and the various methods related to the study of this region and its diasporas. The course includes the study of East Asia, South Asia, and Southeast Asia, as well as cultures of the Asian diaspora in North America and around the globe. A group of five to 10 faculty members participates in this course.

ASIA 305. Chinese Cinema (4A)

This course explores the development of Chinese cinema within the context of the rapid changes that took place in China throughout the twentieth century and into the twenty-first. It traces early productions, particularly in Shanghai in the 1930s, socialist films of the Maoist era, as well as post-socialist films of the reform era. Themes explored include representations of gender and minorities, and how national identities and historical memory are constructed.

ASIA 398/498. Off-Campus Internship (4-16E)

Off-campus experiential learning opportunity. A variety of internships can be arranged through the Career Development Center subject to the approval of the Asian Studies faculty. The off-campus internship is an individually designed experience that allows the student to explore the relationship between learning and everyday work situations. Prerequisites: Admission to the internship program and approval of the study area coordinator. Credit/No credit grading.

ASIA 493/494. St. Mary’s Project in Asian Studies (1-8E)

This project, which may take many forms, draws on and extends knowledge, skills of analysis, and creative achievement developed through previous academic work. The student initiates the project, identifies an area to be explored and proposes a method of inquiry appropriate to the topic. The project should include a reflection on the social context, the body of literature or the conceptual framework to which it is a contribution. It must be shared with the College community through posters, presentations or other means. This course may be repeated for up to eight credit hours. Pre- or co-requisites: Requirements in the Asian Studies study area. Approval of faculty mentor, Asian Studies coordinator and department chair(s) of the student’s major(s).