About the Program
Forming Global Citizens through East Asia studies
Founded in 1981, the Center for International Studies is the oldest interdisciplinary undergraduate program of international studies in Texas.
Since its founding, the Center has maintained active and frequent relations, programming, and curriculum related to Taiwan and its importance to the United States’ national security interests, and has enjoyed close relations with the Taipei Economic & Cultural Office in Houston. The Center is the only institution of higher education in Houston that produces regular Taiwan-related programming and curriculum.
Connect the world
Where Houston meets East Asia
With the support of the Taiwanese-American community, TECO Houston, and the US Department of Education, the Center launched the Taiwan Initiative in 2014 to elevate the prominence of Taiwan studies at the University, raise awareness of Taiwan in our local community, promote university exchanges, and increase the number of students studying Mandarin Chinese and traveling to Taiwan. In 2016, the Center received a Taiwan Studies Grant from the Ministry of Education (ROC) that enabled the elevation of the Taiwan Initiative to the Taiwan & East Asia Studies Program (TEASP). TEASP now administers a minor program, scholarly exchanges, lecture series, and scholarships.
Study the globe
East Asia Studies Leadership
Dr. Yao-Yuan Yeh
The UST East Asia Studies department operates under the leadership of Dr. Yao-Yuan Yeh. To learn more about this program and the opportunities this unique partnership creates, please email Dr. Yao-Yuan Yeh.
Student Experience
Small Classes, Professional Training
You’ll never get lost in the crowd. Small class sizes mean focused attention, personalized feedback, and faculty who know your work and how to help you grow.
From your first semester, you’ll perform in full productions at state of the art, professional venues like The MATCH and The DeLUXE Theater. You’ll graduate with real credits, not just classroom scenes.
Through Stoic Theatre, our resident professional company, you’ll work directly with guest directors, actors, and designers who are active in the industry—bringing fresh, real-world insight to your training.
Students write, direct, and perform original plays, short films, and solo shows like Optimistic and Divine Mercy Witness. From student-devised work to world premieres like Pride and Prejudice and August Mother, opportunities like the Ampersand Festival and new work labs give you space to create—and be heard.