East Asian Languages, Literatures, and Cultures

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Overview East Asia came to global prominence in the twentieth century and in the twenty-first century, knowledge and understanding of the region will continue to be important for people in any profession or field of endeavor. To address that crucial need the Department of East Asian Languages, Literatures and Cultures (DEALLC) offers a comprehensive curriculum in some of the major languages, literatures and cultures of East Asia.

The languages currently taught in DEALLC are Chinese (classical and modern), Japanese (classical and modern), Korean (modern), and Tibetan (classical and modern). The Department reserves the right to place any student in the course most appropriate to her or his skill level. Such placement is the responsibility of the coordinator for each language program, and should be made by the fifth class meeting. For details, see http://eastasian.virginia.edu/programs/placement-exams

The department offers literature courses that examine texts written in Chinese and Japanese, as well as those focusing on Chinese, Japanese and Korean literature in English-language translation. Courses on culture generally are offered in English. In addition to courses on language, literature, and culture, DEALLC requires that its majors and minors take advantage of courses offered in many other departments and programs—Anthropology, Architecture, Art History, Economics, History, Politics, Religious Studies, and Studies in Women and Gender—giving DEALLC students a rounded, multidisciplinary perspective.

The DEALLC curriculum is designed to give students a high level of language competency and a deep understanding of East Asia. The Department offers an East Asian Studies Major, an East Asian Studies Minor, Chinese and Japanese Languages and Literatures Majors, and a Distinguished Major for exceptional students in either the Studies or the Languages and Literatures Major. Many of our students go on to graduate or professional schools, while others have found employment working in governmental agencies, journalism, art, international banking, business and communications. Whatever the case, study in DEALLC is an intense, intimate and rewarding experience, and DEALLC students are well prepared for the future.

It is crucial that language training begin early in the student’s career. Summer study and study abroad are also encouraged. (See more under “Study Abroad Programs”)