Asian American Studies
Bachelor of Arts, Accelerated Master's, Minor
About this program
The Bachelor of Arts in Asian American Studies explores the histories, cultures and experiences of Asian American communities. You will study heritage, identity and social issues through courses, research and hands-on projects. The program helps you build critical thinking and leadership skills while connecting classroom learning to real-world challenges. By working with faculty and community groups, students gain the knowledge and experience needed to address issues facing Asian American communities and pursue careers in various fields.
Program Curriculum and Requirements
From Our Community
The best part of my experience in Asian American Studies was learning about and collaborating with a passionate and committed community. The level of camaraderie, intimacy and sincerity among peers, faculty and families in the Asian American Studies department is absolutely incredible! Everyone has their own distinct narrative, and this community embraces each one, providing a platform for individuality and togetherness all at the same time.
Amy Guan, B.A. ’04
Program Scope
Develop a Transferable Skillset for Diverse Career Pathways and Participate in Opportunities to Advance Social Justice in the Community.
We prepare students to enter a global and diverse workforce. Our curriculum helps students develop essential skills, such as compassion, communication, critical thinking, cultural competence and leadership. We also offer opportunities for students to produce creative works and collaborate with faculty on community service projects.
Our students and alumni utilize their skillsets to create change in their communities, build social movements and advocate for social issues in diverse industries, including technology, law, administration, media, finance, education, sociology and much more.
Program Learning Outcomes
- Gain an interdisciplinary understanding of the histories, cultures, and racialization of Asian Americans.
- Apply course concepts and critical theories and methodologies to identify the structural and ideological forces that shape the lives of Asian Americans.
- Apply the skills and knowledge acquired toward the self-determination and empowerment of Asian American communities.
- Develop values of social justice, equity, activism, and respect for differences.
- Construct evidence-based and persuasive oral and written arguments with proper citations and support from multiple forms of knowledge, including community and academic resources, that communicate what students have discovered.
SFSU Accelerated Bachelors + Masters
This program is a great opportunity for motivated students majoring in Asian American Studies to earn both the B.A. in Asian American Studies and the M.A. in Ethnic Studies in about five years. The Master of Arts in Ethnic Studies is designed to be a versatile degree that provides a solid foundation for careers teaching at community colleges, working in community and multicultural resource development, administrative work in the non-profit sector, employment in student resource centers, practical application in the business fields, and much more.
Minor in Asian American Studies
The Minor in Asian American Studies helps students understand the histories, cultures and experiences of Asian American communities. The program connects to many fields, from law to science, and prepares students to work in a diverse society. Courses explore race, history, identity and social issues, teaching critical thinking and communication skills. Students learn how race, gender, and class shape institutions and communities, gaining knowledge useful for careers in both public and private sectors.
Learn more about the Minor in Asian American Studies