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The author comments on the role higher education African-American-studies programs are perceived to play at competitive institutions throughout the U.S. Princeton University's plans to build up its program in order to enhance diversity is drawn upon as an example supporting the position that elite universities think of such programs as a selling point for African American students. The role of economics and social class in enrollment matters is then explored, with references to Daniel Golden's book "The Price of Admission." Expanding on this issue, the author asserts that the commitment to African-American studies, or to Asian-American studies, is a commitment to describing social problems in the U.S. in a way that racializes injustice at a moment when race is less relevant to injustice.

Discusses the spread of Asian-American studies in universities and colleges throughout the United States. Student pressure for the program; Efforts of professor Evelyn Hu-DeHart to spread the study to other schools; Origination of the field; Types of courses offered, such as `Asian Minorities'; Schools who have Asian-American studies in the curriculum; The decision of the University of Texas at Austin to incorporate the program; Other information.

Focuses on the history and culture associated with Asian immigration to the U.S. Study of Asian history and culture; Size and ethnic diversity; Effects of restrictive immigration policies and laws; Evolution of Asian-American studies in the U.S.

The article discusses a lecture class, "Images of Asian Americans in the Media," at the University of Pennsylvania, which was taught by Kal Penn, best known for his portrayal of Kumar in the film "Harold and Kumar Go to White Castle." The question of whether starring in comedy films qualifies one to teach classes at Ivy League schools is addressed. It is noted that there is a tradition of well-known authors and lawyers maintaining sinecure positions at prestigious universities. Penn's class was described by sources close to it as useful both to the students and to the department, and his personal experience with the film industry is described as a credential of some significance.

Focuses on the need for additional Asian-American courses in universities and colleges in the United States. Survey of universities and colleges in the nation which offer Asian-American studies; Reaction of ethnic students to the courses; Role of major universities in the promotion of Asian American studies. INSET: Some new classes in Asian-American studies..

The article profiles Ronald Takaki, a professor of Asian-American studies at the University of California at Berkeley and author of the book "Strangers From a Different Shore: A History of Asian Americans." The history of Asian Americans is traced in the book by looking at the diverse experiences of various Asian ethnic groups. Other books written by Takaki include "Iron Cages: Race and Culture in 19th-Century America."

This article discusses African-American Studies college courses. According to a 1972 study, forty-nine percent of U.S. colleges and universities offer courses in African-American studies. Two-year colleges offer a greater proportion of African-American studies courses than do four-year colleges. The article also discusses courses in Asian-American studies and Native American studies.