Units of study offered in Japanese Studies

The units of study offered by the department fall into two general categories: ‘Japanese language’ and ‘Japan studies’. Our comprehensive language curriculum is designed to accommodate learners from beginning level to advanced. Disciplinary study of Japan generally begins in the second year with Japanese ‘studies’ units, which are taught in both English and Japanese. Offerings include units on history (modern and premodern), literature, linguistics, society and culture. All are taught by experts in each field. Students interested in studying Japanese history or culture in English, without gaining language proficiency, should consider courses in Asian Studies.

Majors in Japanese Studies need to successfully complete at least 24 credit points in language and 12 credit points in ‘studies’ to graduate. Certain ‘studies’ units are open to native and near-native speakers of Japanese and all majors in Japanese are encouraged to take Asian Studies units to broaden their understanding of the greater Asian region. 48 senior credit points are needed to apply for the Honours program and other prerequisites must be fulfilled.

Japanese language units are offered from Level 1 (beginning) to Level 10 (advanced). Placement is based on experience and/or placement testing. What is offered in Japanese ‘studies’ each year will depend on staff availability but the following units should be offered on a regular basis. Please see the Faculty of Arts handbook for full details on offerings, prerequisites and exclusions.

Introduction to Japan (JPNS2660) offers a broad overview of Japanese history, geography, religion, food culture, holidays and rites of passage. This unit is meant to give students a firm base of knowledge critical to more advanced study of Japan.

Japanese Literature (JPNS2670) aims to improve students’ language skills through the reading of modern Japanese literature. The comprehension of literary texts enables students to gain insight into themes relevant to contemporary life in Japan. English translations are used in conjunction with authentic Japanese material.

Japanese Culture (JPNS2672) provides students with opportunities to pursue individual interests in Japanese culture and society through readings, in-class discussions and group projects. Analytical skills are developed through projects that encourage students to make full use of the library’s Japanese collection and scholarly Internet resources.

Topics on Modern Japan (JPNS3670) is an advanced, seminar-based, unit that explores various themes related to modern Japan. The content of the curriculum is shaped by students’ interests but some common themes include modernisation, the Pacific War and the emergence of Japan’s popular culture industry.

Japanese Linguistics (JPNS3671) aims to introduce students to a number of texts related to Japanese linguistics and to help them improve their ability to deconstruct and analyse complex Japanese syntax. Students also learn strategies for conducting original research on the Japanese language.

Japanese Society (JPNS3673). Is Japan a unique country? What are its similarities and differences with other countries? This unit offers students the opportunity to explore these and other important questions through the reading of original Japanese texts, group discussions, and cross-cultural comparisons. Students are encouraged to develop their own opinions on a range of social and cultural issues while improving their core language skills.