July 14-15, 2005

ITEM 128-1001-R0705  Approval of Proposal to create an Undergraduate Minorin Central and Southwest Asian Studies within theexisting degree program in the Department ofGeography.

THAT: The Board of Regents authorizes The University of Montana-Missoula to offer an Undergraduate Minor in Central and Southwest Asian Studies within the existing degree program in the Department of Geography.

EXPLANATION: The University of Montana-Missoula proposes an interdisciplinary Undergraduate Minor in Central and Southwest Asian Studies within the existing degree program in the Department of Geography. Students will gain an in-depth perspective on Central and Southwest Asian history, geography, natural sciences, cultures and societies. The Minor is designed to complement students' disciplinary focus with region-based knowledge and training. It will directly help to develop an informed and culturally aware citizenry in Montana that is prepared to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing global system. The Minor has the potential of increasing international prestige for the university, attracting a broad spectrum of students, including Native American and ethnic minority students, and improving employment possibilities within the state. Students pursuing this Minor will be prepared for graduate research or for employment in fields such as government, non-governmental organizations, international humanitarian assistance organizations, business, military, industry, health, and education.