Course Descriptions
APAM 117
Introduction to Asian Pacific American Studies
3 Semester Hours
An introductory course which surveys the cultures and histories of the Asian Pacific American in the U.S. Interaction among various Asian Pacific American groups and various issues facing Asian Pacific Americans in the United States will also be discussed.
Fulfills core curriculum requirement for Social Sciences.
APAM 198
Special Studies
1-3 Semester Hours
APAM 199
Independent Studies
1-3 Semester Hours
APAM 298
Special Studies
1-3 Semester Hours
APAM 299
Independent Studies
1-3 Semester Hours
APAM 350
Immigration and Los Angeles
3 Semester Hours
An interdisciplinary and comparative examination of the historical role of immigration and migration in shaping the Los Angeles region as well as the social, political, economic, and cultural impact of immigration in contemporary Los Angeles.
APAM 371
Asian American Literature
3 Semester Hours
A survey of Asian Pacific American writers and their literature, using critical analysis of autobiographies, short stories, novels, poetry, essays, and films.
APAM 398
Special Studies
1-3 Semester Hours
APAM 399
Independent Studies
1-3 Semester Hours
APAM 417
Contemporary Issues of Asian Pacific Americans
3 Semester Hours
Topical studies of timely and pertinent contemporary interest involving Asian Americans in the U.S. Focus will change from year to year.
APAM 427
Asian American Psychology
3 Semester Hours
Coverage of major psychological issues relevant to Asian American personality, identity, and mental health, including acculturation, stereotypes, racial identity, intergenerational conflict, etc.
APAM 435
Asian Pacific American Women’s Experience
3 Semester Hours
An interdisciplinary and comparative examination of the histories and experiences of Asian Pacific American women. Topics include social and economic inequality, literary and cultural representation, and political and community activism.
APAM 437
Asian Pacific Americans and the American Law
3 Semester Hours
An examination of constitutional, immigration, and civil rights laws and their impact on the Asian Pacific American experience. Analysis of historical court cases and legislation, including those pertaining to citizenship, exclusion, and World War II internment. Study of contemporary legal issues in Asian Pacific American communities.
APAM 450
Specific Ethnic Focus Seminars
3 Semester Hours
An in-depth examination of the experience of a single Asian American subgroup. Populations covered will vary.
APAM 453
Filipino American Experience
3 Semester Hours
Comprehensive introduction to the Filipino American experience. Historical analysis of U.S. colonialism and the experiences of Filipino Americans as “American Nationals.” Review of contemporary issues such as immigration patterns, community formation, and family dynamics. In-depth study of Filipino Americans in Los Angeles and Southern California.
APAM 457
Vietnamese American Experience
3 Semester Hours
Comprehensive introduction to the Vietnamese American experience. Review of Southeast Asian politics during the Cold War with emphasis on U.S. policies in Vietnam. Review of contemporary issues in the Vietnamese American community including economic integration, political mobilization, and community and family dynamics. In-depth study of the social and cultural life of Vietnamese Americans in Los Angeles and California.
APAM 459
Pacific Islander American Experience
3 Semester Hours
Comprehensive study of the Pacific Islander American experience, including the history and culture of Pacific Islands, especially Hawaii, and contemporary issues facing the Pacific Islander American communities, particularly in Southern California.
APAM 478
Comparative Study of Asian Pacific American History
3 Semester Hours
Traces the many-faceted histories of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders from cross-cultural and transnational perspectives, focusing on interactions and exchanges between Asian Pacific Americans and various ethnic and racial groups.
APAM 498
Special Studies
1-3 Semester Hours
APAM 499
Independent Studies
1-3 Semester Hours
APAM 500
Capstone Course
3 Semester Hours
A mandatory course that provides APAM minors with the opportunity to create an individualized thesis project that draws on knowledge and experiences gained from previous coursework in APAM studies. Specific requirements will be finalized based on research interest.
Prerequisite: Completion of all other APAM requirements.