Bachelor of South Asian Studies at San Francisco State University

South Asia refers to Pakistan, Afghanistan, India, Nepal, Bhutan, Maldives, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. These countries are members of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). The Minor in South Asian Studies is multidisciplinary and designed to provide students with a broad understanding of the culture, history, economics, and politics of South Asia and its diaspora. The region of South Asia is a crucial area of study given its linguistic, ethnic, and religious diversity (its traditions draw from Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism, Jainism, Christianity, and others), its experience of British colonial rule and independence, its recent economic expansion and technological influence globally, and the widespread migration of South Asians over the last century. The study of South Asia thus offers students opportunities to explore pressing questions concerning colonialism and nationalism, political conflict and government, economic liberalization, cultural diversity and its expression in literature, art, and popular culture, and globalization.

The South Asian Studies minor is useful for students planning careers in education, social service, law, politics, government, business, media, and art, both nationally and internationally. It also prepares students for graduate study in a number of academic fields.

1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the diversity and complexity of South Asian culture, politics, history, immigration, and other social formations.
2. Articulate and critically evaluate main discourses and debates in the scholarship of South Asian studies through research and response papers, exams, and class presentations.
3. Apply theory and methodology from a range of academic disciplines in the arts, humanities, and social sciences to communicate the causes of South Asian historical and current debates.