Asian Studies (AST)

Subject-area course lists indicate courses currently active for offering at the University of Louisville. Not all courses are scheduled in any given academic term. For class offerings in a specific semester, refer to the Schedule of Classes.

500-level courses generally are included in both the undergraduate- and graduate-level course listings; however, specific course/section offerings may vary between semesters. Students are responsible for ensuring that they enroll in courses that are applicable to their particular academic programs.

Course Fees

Some courses may carry fees beyond the standard tuition costs to cover additional support or materials. Program-, subject- and course-specific fee information can be found on the Office of the Bursar website.


AST 500. Topics in Asian Studies-Humanities3 Units

Description: Selected topics in Asian studies from a humanities perspective.

For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes

AST 501. Topics in Asian Studies-Social Sciences3 Units

Description: Selected topics in Asian studies from a social science perspective.

For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes

AST 517. Anthropology of China3 Units

Term Typically Offered: Fall Only

Prerequisite(s): Graduate standing or permission of the instructor.

Description: It is widely acknowledged that China is a rising power in the global political economy. However, with the coexistence of tradition and modernity, the nature of Chinese culture and society remains heavily debated. This course explores a wide range of topics and issues that constitute the socio-cultural fabric of contemporary mainland Chinese society. These topics include, but are not limited to, family, gender, ethnicity, religion, education, politics, and economics. Our investigation will focus on two broad themes: 1) the unity and diversity of Chinese society, and 2) the continuity and change that took place from late traditional China to the present. The goal of this course includes learning various aspects of Chinese culture and society, studying diverse anthropological approaches to the study of China, and examining the political dimensions of representation.

Note: Cross-listed with ANTH 517.
Note: Students may not receive credit for this course and ANTH 317 or AST 317.

For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes

AST 531. Studies in Asian Art3 Units

Prerequisite(s): One 300-level course in Asian art, or consent of instructor.

Description: Select topics that examine the development of art and architecture in the context of social and cultural history of China and Japan.

Note: Cross-listed with ARTH 531.

For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes

AST 598. Nationalism and Modernity in East Asia3 Units

Description: The creation of modern nation-states in China, Japan, and Korea from 1840 to 1945.

For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes

AST 641. Clash of Civilizations in the 21st Century3 Units

Description: This course examines three major civilizations (Western, Islam, and Chinese) and their roles in international relations in the 21st century.

Note: Cross-listed with POLS 641.

For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes