The Global South Asian studies program helps Wesleyan students pursue the wide range of opportunities in South Asia—both scholarly and artistic—as the subcontinent gains increasing global prominence.

Wesleyan has a remarkable collection of courses and resources for all students interested in studying the cultures of South Asia, with primary focus on India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. The University enjoys the distinction of having not only an Indian music studies program but also a diverse group of scholars devoted to the wider region and its diaspora, in fields ranging from anthropology, art history, and cultural studies to dance, history, literature, and religion.

Students completing the Global South Asian studies (GSAS) major will develop expertise in the cultural breadth and historical depth of South Asia and the global South Asian diaspora; intermediate or advanced language proficiency in a South Asian language; and analytic skills in intercultural interpretation with an awareness of the necessity for a coherent, multi-methodical approach to study. 

What You'll Study

Students are required to take a minimum of 11 courses (10 courses for one credit each and the 0.25-credit capstone experience) designated as appropriate for the major. The 11 required courses must include:

  • GSAS150: Foundations in Global South Asian Studies.
  • The equivalent of at least four credits in South Asian languages. There is no limit to the number that can be taken off campus in approved programs.
  • The capstone experience.
  • At least one course in each of the four distribution categories: Contemporary Society and Practice; Historical Inquiry; Language; and Performance Traditions. No more than six courses that count towards the major can come from any one of these categories.
  • Additionally, majors are encouraged to study abroad for at least one semester, if not two.

Minor Requirements

Students are required to take five courses designated as appropriate for the minor. Up to three of these may be taken away from Wesleyan (e.g., on a study abroad program). Of the five required courses, one must be GSAS 150: Foundations, in addition to one course in each of the four distribution categories.