University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa
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East Asian Languages and Literature

Undergraduate Study   Bachelor of Arts (BA), or Certificate, or Minor in Korean
Bachelor of Arts (BA), or Certificate, or Minor in Chinese
Bachelor of Arts (BA), or Certificate, or Minor in Japanese

Website:  www.hawaii.edu/eall 

Academic Program

The Department of East Asian Languages and Literatures is the largest department of its kind in the country and offers a curriculum unparalleled in its breadth, depth, and variety of courses in Chinese (Cantonese, Mandarin, Taiwanese), Japanese, and Korean.

At the undergraduate level, language skill courses are aimed at developing a high level of proficiency in both the spoken and written aspects of the languages. Cultural awareness as well as language proficiency are promoted through extra-curricular activities such as student clubs, video/film showings, lectures, and study abroad programs. The department currently offers through the Study Abroad Center programs in Hainan, China and Kobe, Japan. Other courses provide both introductory and advanced coverage of the literatures of East Asia and the analysis and description of the languages themselves.  

Major-Related Skills

In addition to discipline specific content, East Asian language and literature majors have the ability to:

  • listen carefully and pay attention to detail.
  • understand and communicate well in a second language.
  • acknowledge one’s own value system as well as those of others.
  • translate oral and written communication from one language to another.
  • understand the influence of historical and cultural information and influences on contemporary life.
  • communicate diplomatically and effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

    Declaring Your Major

    Click here for a form-fillable major declaration form.  Complete the first page of the Declaration of Major form and print two copies. Make an appointment with a faculty advisor in the Department of East Asian Languages and Literature to discuss your interests, major requirements, and course selection.  The advisor will complete the second page of the form.  Two copies of the completed form should then be turned in to the service counter for Arts & Sciences Student Academic Services.

    Click here for concurrent degree requests (i.e., between A&S and another college or different degree programs within A&S, such as concurrent BA and BS degrees).


    Created by Lynne Higa, Michael Kirk-Kuwaye

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