Major and minor
The Japanese civilization extends back more than 1,200 years: its contributions to global culture include art, poetry, and the world's first novel, The Tale of Genji, which has shaped literature for centuries. Today, Japan is the world's second-largest economy, making vital contributions to the growing fields of science and technology. As a Japanese major, students will first build a strong foundation in the Japanese language, then cultivate an understanding of Japanese literature and civilization. By gaining a more diverse global perspective, students are able to apply their Japanese skills in a variety of global industries to complement their existing interests, ranging from technological development to cultural diversity of the arts, literature, film, and business.
Real World Outcomes
Some alumni go directly into graduate school; business and law schools are also possibilities. One recent graduate works in immigration law dealing specifically with Japanese immigrants. Graduates from the program may also experience exciting careers and foreign travel through the Japanese Exchange Teaching (JET) program.
Requirements
The major in Japanese concentrates on the study of language and literature. Since most students begin with no prior knowledge of Japanese, you will first receive a firm grounding in both spoken and written Japanese in elementary and intermediate course sequences. You will further develop your language skills in advanced courses, where you will learn about Japanese literature and civilization as you read and discuss materials in the original language. Additional courses, taught in English, allow you to read widely in Japanese literature, both ancient and modern.
