Emory University

What you'll study

The curriculum balances progressive language coursework with thematic and methodological courses that build regional knowledge and analytical skills. Typical components include:

• Language proficiency sequences — multi-year study in Mandarin, Japanese or Korean that develops speaking, listening, reading and writing; advanced seminars focus on composition, media and specialised registers.
• Linguistics and language structure — courses on phonology, morphology, syntax and typology that examine features of East Asian languages and comparative issues.
• Literature and textual study — surveys of classical and modern literature, film and visual culture; close reading of novels, poetry, drama and contemporary media.
• Translation and interpretation — practice in translating written texts and interpreting spoken language, with attention to register, cultural reference and ethics of mediation.
• Area studies and history — courses on East Asian history, politics, religion and society to contextualise language and literary study.
• Research methods and capstone work — training in research methods, culminating projects or senior seminars that may include original research, translation portfolios or practicum placements.

Students have access to language labs, multimedia resources and co-curricular activities such as conversation tables, film series and cultural events. Many students take advantage of study abroad or exchange programmes to accelerate language acquisition and gain immersive experience.

Entry requirements

Admission is through Emory University’s undergraduate process. Successful applicants typically demonstrate strong academic preparation and an interest in languages or the humanities. Typical application materials include:

• Completed university application and high school transcripts.
• Personal statement outlining interest in East Asian studies and language learning.
• Letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors.
• Standardised test scores if submitted in accordance with current Emory admissions policy.

Prior study of an East Asian language can be advantageous but is not always required; placement assessments are used to place students at the appropriate level. Some students enter with advanced placement credits or prior overseas study, which may shorten the language sequence.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for careers that value language skills, cultural literacy and analytical thinking. Common pathways include:

• International business, trade and consulting roles that require regional expertise and communication skills.
• Government, diplomacy and intelligence positions involving policy, analysis or cultural liaison work.
• Education and language teaching at K–12 or university level (often combined with teacher certification or postgraduate training).
• Translation, interpretation and localisation for publishing, media, legal and technical industries.
• Non-profit, development and cultural organisations working on East Asia-related programmes.
• Further study in graduate programmes in linguistics, literature, area studies, law, international relations or business.

Why study at Emory University

Emory offers a liberal arts environment with strong resources for East Asian studies, including faculty whose research spans linguistics, literature and cultural studies. The university supports language learning through specialised facilities, study-abroad partnerships and extracurricular language communities. Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration across departments and access to a broad network of alumni and professional opportunities in a city with international organisations and cultural institutions.