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Value of a Minor

Are you interested in enhancing your studies with a minor? In addition to major areas of study, UTSA offers a variety of programs that provide valuable contributions to students' academic careers. While pursuing an undergraduate minor, students have the opportunity to explore personal interests and passions outside of their major program or complement their current major, helping them further stand out in the job market.
UTSA students in front of Fushimiinari Shrine in Kyoto

Why Pursue a Minor in East Asian Studies

Not only is East Asia a significant economic power house, but it also plays a crucial role in geopolitics, international relations, and global cultural exchange. With many multinational companies having operations in East Asia, this minor can create specific career pathways in your major area of study. Completing language courses in Chinese, Japanese, and Korean will make you more competitive in the job market, especially if your sought after role interacts with East Asian Countries. The courses within this minor provide cultural competence if you plan to work in international business, geopolitics, journalism, tourism, education, and so much more. 

Elementary Korean Class

What You'll Study

Students pursuing the Minor in East Asian Studies will take the following courses:

  • Elementary Chinese
  • Elementary Japanese
  • Elementary Korean
  • Colloquium in East Asian Culture
  • 12 semester credit hours of elective courses

Students also have the opportunity to select a Study Abroad Experience, chosen in consultation with their advisor! This summer, Roadrunners are off to learn the language in South Korea and study the shrines, temples, and festivals of Japan!

Adding a Minor


Though not required, declaring a minor is an excellent way to enhance your major area of study. A minor typically consists of 6 courses (18 semester credit hours), and may have additional requirements depending on the minor selected. After being admitted to UTSA and registered for classes, students can meet with their assigned academic advisor to discuss the addition of a minor to their degree plan.

Please note, students can add a minor as long as they have earned less than 75 credit hours. However, the addition of a minor may or may not delay graduation. All requirements for the minor must be met at graduation; a minor cannot be added to a student’s degree program once they graduate. Students should meet with their assigned academic advisor to understand the impacts of adding a minor to their degree plan.

Program Advisor

Dr. Makiko Fukuda, PhD

Makiko.Fukuda@utsa.edu