YSU introduces Asian Studies program

Youngstown State University is introducing a new interdisciplinary minor in Asian Studies, based out of the Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies.

"In the globalized world of the 21st century, the study of Asia is a pressing need for all undergraduates around the world,” said Michael Jerryson, YSU associate professor of Philosophy and Religious Studies, the author of seven books and a world-respected expert on Buddhism.

“Not only does the study of Asia allow students to familiarize themselves with 60 percent of the world’s population, but also allows students to engage with cultures and histories behind the most powerful emerging markets and influential political influences of this century.”

Nate Myers, associate provost for International and Global Initiatives, said the new minor in Asian Studies will support efforts in multiple areas across the YSU campus, including enrollment and study abroad initiatives. “YSU continues to expand opportunities that students have to attain deeper understandings of cultures other than their own,” he said.

The new minor has course offerings that include Chinese studies, history, art history, religious studies, anthropology and sociology, politics and international relations, philosophy and economics.

“Asia is one of the major crossroads of the world: culturally, politically, economically, and socially,” Jerryson said. “The Asian Studies program at YSU seeks to enhance students’ global temperament through the acquisition of Asian perspectives and familiarization with Asian environments."

For more information on the program, call 330-941-3447.