From the perspective of historical materialism, the emergence and development of area studies in China have their unique historical roots and practical value. In this context, local English majors in universities face both opportunities and challenges in transforming and upgrading in the new era of socialism with Chinese characteristics. The article first introduces the decline of the United States, the rise of a new discipline, and the background and rationale of the emergence of Chinese area studies. Secondly, it proposes a discipline of "area studies with Chinese characteristics " that differs from Western area studies. Finally, the development status and prospects of English majors in local universities in serving the local social and economic growth and supporting national development strategies are interpreted in terms of talent cultivation, curriculum design, faculty, and international exchange and cooperation.