Honours in Japanese Studies

Fourth-year honours students complete advanced coursework and conduct dedicated research leading to the production of a substantial work of original scholarship. As a research-intensive degree, the honours program is the primary segue into advanced postgraduate studies leading to the Masters of Philosophy or PhD.

Honours graduates are also highly sought after by corporations and government agencies for their intellectual and practical skills. These include the ability to collect, analyse, and organise specialised information in a critical way, write and think with superior proficiency, argue effectively, and work efficiently. Moreover, honours graduates of Japanese Studies have demonstrated their capacity to function effectively in Japanese and use Japanese language materials.

Honours students pursue a thesis topic related to their own personal interests and they are able to do so under the dedicated guidance of a member of the academic staff. Disciplinary fields best represented in the department are Japanese history (modern and premodern), political thought, literature, language, society and popular culture. Students with other interests should enquire with the honours coordinator about potential arrangements. Joint honours with other departments is also possible.

The department provides scholarships to exceptional honours applicants and other merit-based funding is available from the university.

Can I enter into honours at Sydney Uni even if I graduated from somewhere else?

Yes, click here to get in touch with the honours coordinator for this information.

Do I need to be fluent in Japanese to do honours in Japanese Studies?

No. Language learners of all levels are eligible for admission. We simply require that you use Japanese sources to your highest capability.

Can I do joint-honours in Japanese Studies with another department?

Yes, as long as you meet the requirements for entry into both programs.