May 19, 1998
Contact: Timothy McKernan, (619) 594-2588
SDSU Creates Department of Asian Studies
The San Diego State University Senate has given formal approval for the creation of a new Department of Asian Studies at SDSU. The department will become an offical member of the University’s College of Arts and Letters beginning in the fall semester of 1998, offering both bachelor’s and master’s degree programs.
SDSU President Stephen L. Weber said the new department is consistent with the goals of the campus “Shared Vision” process and reflects the University’s commitment to providing degree programs in areas important to San Diego.
“The Asian community is one of the fastest growing in our region as well as at our University,” Weber said. “In addition, the economies of Asian countries and the United States are becoming more and more interdependent. If San Diego is to become a major cultural and economic presence along the Pacific Rim, it is important that our community have a better understanding of Asian politics, business and culture.”
SDSU ecomonics professor M.C. Madhavan, one of the driving forces behind the creation of the Department of Asian Studies, said it would be modeled after a similar program at the University of Hawaii and indicated faculty from a wide range of disciplines have expressed interest in teaching Asian Studies classes, including some who would consider a joint appointment to the new department.
“Like the islands, San Diego is a place of ethnic diversity and cross-cultural fetilization,” he said. “The U of H program emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach we hope to emulate here.”
For more information, or to arrange interviews with Dr. Weber and Dr. Madahavan, please call Timothy McKernan at (619) 594-2588.