For over twenty years, American University's Center for Asian Studies has coordinated Asian studies activities to promote deeper mutual understanding between Asia and the United States. Its mission is comprised of the following elements:

• Education - Development of curriculum, courses, and certification in Asian Studies. Creation of new faculty lines in Asian studies. Coordination of dual degree and exchange programs with Asian universities.
  
• Research - Coordination of lectures, seminars, and research projects, and publications in the area of Asian studies. Research and teaching are conducted on such topics as political economy, civil society, democratization, international relations, foreign policy, gender, race, culture, labor, and migration issues.
  
• Outreach - Organization of joint projects, executive training programs, and international conferences which build connections between teaching and research institutions and between policy analysts and practitioners.