A Coalition of Teacher-Scholars, Artist-Activists and Community Leaders
Welcome to the Asian American Studies (AAS) Department, which grew from the 1968 Black Student Union/Third World Liberation Front Student Strike. AAS at SF State is the nation’s most comprehensive Asian American studies program with over 50 undergraduate and graduate courses taught by more than 20 faculty members who are teacher-scholars, mentors and community leaders.
The Asian American Studies Department offers a unique academic experience where students from all majors can learn the histories, contributions and diverse identities of Asian Americans in the United States. Our courses provide specialized opportunities for students to engage in community-based research, social activism, performance pedagogies, service-learning and versatile internship experiences that positively impact our Asian American communities within the San Francisco Bay Area and across the nation.
AAS Graduate Testimonial
“Getting my Asian American Studies Master's degree at SF State has totally transformed how I perceive the world and my place in it. I have been nurtured by the affirmation and deep love of mentors and fellow students at SF State with whom I am critically reimagining relationships with land, ancestors and community in our pursuit of collective liberation."
Jee Soo Kang, M.A. ’21
Students
Students who take our courses have developed career paths in diverse fields, including teaching, public service, government, health, journalism, public policy, law and much more. Join us and obtain a degree with AAS.
Faculty
Our AAS faculty specialize in many sub-disciplines, including education, fine arts, performing arts, gender studies, critical mixed race studies, sexuality studies, history, law, literature, public/community health, religious studies and much more.
Community
See all the work our faculty, staff and students are doing to advance justice for diverse Asian American communities through research, scholarship, creative works, service learning, internships, teaching and leadership within our community.
Explore AAS Pathways at SF State
Announcements
AAS Department Solidarity Statement: Lunar New Year Tragedies
AAS Department Solidarity Statement: Palestine
Faculty Spotlight
In the News
The 100 Most Influential People of 2021
Dr. Russell Jeung was named one of TIME magazine’s most influential people.
Memoriam
Jeffery Paul Chan, M.A., In Memoriam
Professor Emeritus Chan passed away in January, 2022. He was a true original.
Anantha Sudhakar, Ph.D., In Memoriam
Dr. Sudhakar passed away on August 11, 2021, surrounded by her family. She is deeply missed.