University of Tulsa

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary programme emphasises high-level language proficiency together with literary, cultural and linguistic investigation of East Asia. Students typically choose a primary language focus (for example Mandarin Chinese or Japanese) and progress through intensive coursework in grammar, conversation, reading and composition. Core offerings include courses in modern and classical literature, film and media studies, East Asian history and culture, and topics courses in areas such as gender, religion or intellectual history.

On the linguistics side, students explore phonetics and phonology, morphology and syntax, sociolinguistics and language acquisition, often with examples drawn from East Asian languages. Practical modules include translation and interpretation, language pedagogy, and applied linguistics projects. Students can expect to complete intermediate-to-advanced language sequence work, language practicum or conversation labs, and a senior capstone—either a research project, thesis or practicum—that integrates language skills with literary or linguistic analysis.

Many students take advantage of related courses across the university—such as international relations, economics or business—to tailor the degree toward careers in diplomacy, international business or area studies. Opportunities for study abroad, short-term faculty-led programmes and summer intensive courses are commonly used to accelerate oral fluency and cultural competence.

Typical modules and subjects

• Elementary, Intermediate and Advanced East Asian Language sequences (listening, speaking, reading, writing)
• East Asian Literature and Film
• Classical Texts and Translation
• Introduction to Linguistics; Phonetics and Phonology
• Sociolinguistics and Language in Society
• Second Language Acquisition and Language Teaching Methodology
• Translation and Interpreting Practicum
• Capstone Seminar or Senior Thesis

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent. Admission typically considers academic record (GPA), strength of curriculum, and a personal statement outlining interest in East Asian studies or linguistics. For applicants who have taken standardised tests, scores may be included with the application where required or optional under the university's policies.

For non-native English speakers, proof of English proficiency is required; commonly accepted evidence includes recognised English language tests or other university-approved documentation. Placement testing may be used to determine appropriate entry level in the chosen East Asian language; prior study of the language is helpful but not always required for beginning-level entry. Some advanced-level courses may require demonstrated prior coursework in the language or instructor permission.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with strong language skills, cultural literacy and analytical training that are attractive to a range of employers. Common career paths include:

• Language teaching and educational services (K–12 or university programmes, language schools)
• Translation, interpretation and localisation for business, legal and media sectors
• International business, trade and corporate roles that require language and regional expertise
• Government and public service, including diplomacy, intelligence and development agencies
• Further study and academic careers in linguistics, comparative literature, area studies or applied linguistics
• Non-profit and cultural organisations working on international programmes

Internships, study abroad and campus partnerships help students build professional experience and networks relevant to these careers.

Why study at University of Tulsa

The University of Tulsa offers a programme that balances rigorous language training with small-class attention and personalised advising characteristic of a residential research university. Students benefit from faculty who teach language, literature and linguistics across complementary disciplines, and from resources such as language labs, conversation partners and opportunities for undergraduate research.

The campus supports experiential learning through study-abroad arrangements and short-term overseas programmes that deepen language immersion. The programme’s size allows close mentorship for capstone projects and facilitates internship connections with local organisations and regional employers. For students seeking a degree that combines practical language competence with intellectual breadth in literature and linguistics, the University of Tulsa provides a supportive environment and clear pathways to professional or academic advancement.