Asian Languages & Civilizations

Our faculty and students draw on a variety of disciplines to explore the histories and cultures of the peoples of Asia.

We study the languages, societies and cultures of major civilizations that stretch from the Arab World to Japan. Students expand their knowledge and challenge assumptions about this large and vital part of the world.

Department Highlights

art of assorted flags displayed on a brick building

The Major

Students gain a sophisticated understanding of one of the four cultural areas—Japan, China, South Asia and West Asia—that make up our department.

The Major

About the Asian Languages & Civilizations Department

Arabic Language Program

As part of the Five College Arabic Language Initiative, we offer a full sequence of courses in Arabic.

Arabic Language

Chinese Language Program

We offer a coherent sequence of Mandarin Chinese courses from the elementary through the advanced.

Chinese Language

Japanese Language Program

We teach Japanese using the “stage-step” method. Students learn to speak, read, write and listen in Japanese.

Japanese Language

Doshisha University

Amherst has long ties with Japan’s Doshisha University, founded by Amherst graduate Joseph Hardy Neesima, the first Japanese man to earn a college degree from a Western institution.

Doshisha University

Language Tables

At weekly language tables, students share meals while speaking Chinese, Japanese or Arabic.

Language Tables

Yūshien

Roughly translated as “Garden of Friendship,” the Yūshien is a contemplative garden in the Japanese style at Amherst. It has been ranked among the nation’s top Japanese gardens.

Yūshien