Academic Forms

Students must be in good academic standing (2.0 GPA or higher) when declaring/adding a Japanese program.
If you have previous knowledge in Japanese, you must take a language placement exam before enrolling in a JPN course.

B.A. in Japanese (AY 25-26)

B.A. in Japanese with Prerequisites

The Japanese major integrates advanced language study with Japanese linguistics and literature, aiming to develop students’ ability to work across languages and cultures. Rather than focusing solely on native-level fluency, the program emphasizes translingual and transcultural competence through critical engagement with language structure and cultural texts. Linguistics offers tools to analyze language form and function, while literature provides insight into Japanese cultural expression over time. The major prepares students for Japan-oriented careers in various sectors or for personal and intellectual engagement with the Japanese language. Credit-bearing practica are available to support students in exploring career opportunities in Japan.

Minor in Japanese (AY 25-26)

Minor in Japanese with Prerequisites

The Japanese minor is intended for students seeking to deepen their knowledge of Japanese. It requires completion of five courses (15 credit hours) drawn from language skill courses and content courses in Japanese linguistics, literature, and related areas such as Japanese film and Okinawan language and culture. Native speakers are required to complete five content courses.

Certificate in Japanese (AY 25-26)

Certificate in Japanese with Prerequisites

The Certificate in Japanese is designed for students seeking to credential their proficiency in Japanese language skills—including speaking, listening, reading, and writing—to complement other fields of study. Completion requires five courses totaling 15 credit hours from the approved course list.

Summer Internship in Japan

This internship program aims to provide JPN students with professional on-the-job training that requires the use of Japanese and English. With the generous support of host companies, students are expected to accomplish the following goals:

1. Gain an understanding of workplace dynamics, professional expectations, and the influence of culture on both.
2. Build proficiency in a range of skills appropriate to the Japanese workplace, including professional and cross-cultural communication through written, verbal, and nonverbal means.
3. Develop professional connections and identify a strategy for maintaining those connections, and
4. Become a critical observer and appraiser of the Japanese culture and society.