Asian Studies Certificate

Advanced Certificate Requirements

The Advanced Certificate in Asian Studies may be earned by U.S. and international students from any department or school of the University. It entails a combination of second language training and multidisciplinary area studies necessary for both communicative and cultural competence. The certificate is designed for students who wish to intensify their study of Asia, either because they would like to be able to use their knowledge of that critical part of the world in their careers after graduation, or because they recognize the importance of an understanding of Asian history, language, and culture for all well-informed people.

• A minimum of five upper-level courses or graduate seminars dealing with Asia, in at least two departments. The five courses must include one seminar outside the student’s major department.
• A research paper. The student can fulfill this requirement by presenting either an interdisciplinary seminar paper or thesis (which draws upon more than one scholarly discipline). The paper can be used to complete departmental requirements for a graduate degree as well as for the certificate, but must include research using the student’s approved Asian language.
• Demonstration of proficiency in reading and speaking an approved Asian language related to one of the student’s countries or regions of interest. Proficiency is interpreted to mean at least three years of study or the equivalent, and may be demonstrated by successfully completing courses or by passing a special examination.
• GSPIA option: Students enrolled in the Graduate School of Public and International Affairs (GSPIA) may fulfill a more targeted set of requirements for their program. For details, visit http://www.ucis.pitt.edu/asc/academics/certificate-program/graduate-certificate-program