East Asian Language Studies

East Asian Language Studies

Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Why choose East Asian Language Studies?

East Asian Language Studies scholars ask questions such as: Can the Chinese writing system of Hanzi/Kanji become the universal written language? Now that Japan and China are both superpowers, how are the two countries influencing one another in terms of culture? How do East Asian language learners achieve the desired proficiency in listening, speaking, reading and writing?

East Asian Language Studies will provide you with solid training in all four language skills (reading, writing, speaking and listening) in the two main East Asian languages, namely Chinese and Japanese. In addition to gaining profound knowledge of East Asian cultures, you will also choose to pursue advanced proficiency in one of the languages, and intermediate proficiency in the other.

Career opportunities

As an East Asian Language Studies graduate, you'll be prepared for career opportunities in areas such as the civil service, the non-profit sector, and the business world. A degree in East Asian Language Studies can also be used as a stepping-stone to graduate studies or another professional degree such as law, medicine, veterinary medicine, or education.

Program highlights

  • Co-operative work placement - Gain valuable full-time paid work experience that alternates with your academic studies.
  • Study abroad opportunities - Cultural and academic experiences at destinations around the world.

Courses in this program

Beginners Japanese I, Chinese Culture in an Immersion Setting, Survey of Far Eastern Art: Japan, Topics in Chinese Civilization, ​Beginners Chinese I

Detailed course information


​The East Asian language studies (EALS) program calendar is full with activities such as Chinese-student conversation-club and skill competitions, Japanese popular culture lectures (games, movies, cultural performances) as well as speech contests. EALS graduates shine for their Chinese and Japanese language competence; many have been recruited by provincial and federal governments, as well as private companies. It brings me much happiness to see my students successful in advancing their studies and careers after graduation.

Shu-ning Sciban

PhD – Professor


Admission requirements
I am currently a(n):
Required courses for admission
Additional admission details
Intake and application dates
Curriculum (education system)
Estimated competitive admission average
Description
Button
Approved courses and options
Approved courses and options notes

Use the Undergraduate Student Cost Estimator to calculate your expenses as a first-year student. Undergraduate Student Cost Estimator

See the best of UCalgary

See the best of UCalgary

Check out our student experience page to find out more about what life is like on campus or consider visiting campus for a tour led by one of our current students.

Learn about the student experience

More ways to get in touch

Ready to find out what campus is really like? Book a tour, join us at an event, or sign up for more information.


Join us for a future student event

Check our calendar to find out when we'll be in your area, or register for one of our upcoming online events.

Check events

Sign up for more information

Sign up for more information about UCalgary, receive important details and reminders, and find out when UCalgary is visiting your area.

Get more information

See the campus

Guided by a current student, you'll explore our classrooms, residences, athletic facilities, and more.

Book a tour

Contact us and get help

Need assistance? Learn how to get ahold of us and find answers to your questions.

Contact and help


Ready to take the next step?

Faculty of Arts

Faculty of Arts

Arts Students' Centre, Social Sciences Building, Room 102
2500 University Drive NW
Calgary, Alberta T2N 1N4

403.220.3580