Asian Classics
Go behind the news stories to discover cultures from the inside out – everything from countries such as China, India, and Japan to the religion and cultures of Islam, as well as classic civilizations throughout the East. Designed for adults who want to make use of the analytical power of a great university in a flexible and affordable noncredit setting, this program is the only one of its kind in the United States.
In the Asian Classics program you can:
- Deepen your understanding of other cultures
- Challenge common assumptions about “Eastern” and Western
- Build your awareness of civilizations that have existed for centuries or millennia, and the complexity of their interactions with the world
- Broaden your horizons by studying with instructors who are immersed in other cultures, speak other languages, and have completed years of research in their fields
- Engage in conversations with instructors and fellow students who value civil discourse and critical thinking
- Become a better citizen of the world through all of the above
Program Requirements
The program is composed of core and elective courses. Participants earn a University of Chicago Graham School certificate upon completion of the following requirements: 12 courses / 285 classroom hours including at least 9 core courses / 225 classroom hours. Previously completed courses count as core courses in the new program.
Core and Elective Courses
Core courses study foundational texts or eras. Courses in the new Theories & Methods series count as core courses. This series is modeled on introductory graduate seminars at the University of Chicago, in which new graduate students learn the history and challenges of various approaches to their chosen field. Participants in the Asian Classics Theories & Methods series’ courses acquire tools for thinking critically about challenging subjects.
Elective courses focus on contemporary texts or eras, and may include a wider range of media such as films or works of art. Together, core and elective courses are designed to lead students to a deeper understanding of Asia, its past, and its present.
Not interested in pursuing the certificate? Each course in the program may also be taken individually.
Asian Classics classes and registration information on the Graham School website.
