Faculty Spotlight
Professor Freiner's

Nicole L. Freiner is Associate Professor of Political Science at Bryant, teaching courses on Global Politics, Comparative Politics, Politics of Asia, The Politics of Developing Countries, Environmental Politics and The Politics and Society of Modern Japan. In each of her classes, Freiner brings her passion for research travel and knowledge of Asia to bear on what she passes on to students as she feels that firsthand knowledge can help students better understand the diverse perspectives that are a part of our global citizenship. Working with students to develop ideas and their own research projects is a cornerstone of her teaching; she has directed many independent studies and these projects have led to student presentation at conferences as well.
As a comparative scholar, Freiner conducts research in the field in Japan where she has traveled and lived for the past 20 years. Her first book studied the connection between Confucian heritage, gender and nationalism crafted by the Japanese state throughout its history. Professor Freiner’s most recent article published in the online news course “The Conversation” showcased research on Japanese rice farmers and the plight they are facing as global trade agreements are pressuring Japan to end its policy of protection for rice farmers.
Students in her classes have also commented on her love of teaching, in evaluation comments they say: “I love her!”; “She was my favorite professor at Bryant” and “She obviously loves teaching this subject matter and it shows”.
Read more about Professor Freiner's work here.
As a comparative scholar, Freiner conducts research in the field in Japan where she has traveled and lived for the past 20 years. Her first book studied the connection between Confucian heritage, gender and nationalism crafted by the Japanese state throughout its history. Professor Freiner’s most recent article published in the online news course “The Conversation” showcased research on Japanese rice farmers and the plight they are facing as global trade agreements are pressuring Japan to end its policy of protection for rice farmers.
Students in her classes have also commented on her love of teaching, in evaluation comments they say: “I love her!”; “She was my favorite professor at Bryant” and “She obviously loves teaching this subject matter and it shows”.
Read more about Professor Freiner's work here.