Studies in Diversity
Scholarly assessment and research in the broad range of cultural studies is demonstrated by many leading centers, departments, and institutes on the U-M campus.
Center for Chinese Studies
The Center for Chinese Studies was founded in 1961. It came to national prominence thanks to the work of its early directors, Albert Feuerwerker and Alexander Eckstein, whose papers are housed at the Bentley Historical Library. In addition to offering departmental and inderdisciplinary courses, the Center supports research by Michigan faculty and international scholars.
Center for Japanese Studies
The Center for Japanese Studies was established in 1947, and was the first of its type to follow an interdisciplinary philosophy. The Center followed an established Japanese Studies program on campus; the University had also housed the Army's Japanese Language School during World War II.
The Center supports research both locally and abroad; for several years it operated a field program in Okoyama, Japan. In addition to its degree programs, various scholarly programs are offered, including conferences; lectures; and films. Research is strongly supported by the Asia Library, which houses one of America's top Japanese-language collections.
Department of Afroamerican and African Studies
The Department of Afroamerican and African Studies (DAAS) was established in 1970. The department supports research, instruction, and community outreach, and is a leading center for the study of Africans and peoples of African descent.
Ethnic Studies Programs
The College of Literature, Science, and the Arts offers a variety of ethnic studies through the American Culture Department. Courses of study include African American Studies; Arab and Muslim American Studies; Asian/Pacific Islander American Studies; Latina/o Studies; and Native American Studies.
Student Background
Diversity in Faculty