The Kansas City Art Institute is a 4-year college of art and design established in 1885. Since 2008 Japanese Language and Culture course have been regularly offered, and the Asian Studies Certificate Program was created in 2010. Students participating in KCAI’s Asian Studies certificate program study the language, art, aesthetics and creative activities of China and Japan. They pursue an intensive study of East Asia through designated courses in language, art history, literature, history and philosophy, along with a studio component. Fifteen credit hours are required to attain the certificate for students currently pursuing the B.F.A. degree.