Program Overview

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Overview

The Japanese MLitt is an opportunity for students to pursue research that they are passionate about. It combines taught elements to develop subject knowledge and research-based elements to encourage skills as a researcher.

What You'll Learn

Taught modules are designed to extend subject knowledge and research skills beyond undergraduate-level. These skills feed directly into the work that students will complete as part of the independent research element of this programme.

Modules

Students take either:

• Information Skills (10 credits)
• and
• The Making and Unmaking of Knowledge (10 credits) Or
• Qualitative Methodology in the Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences (20 credits) Plus
• Modern Languages MLitt Research Assignments (80 credits)
• Modern Languages Dissertation (80 credits)

How You'll Learn

Delivery and teaching methods This Japanese Studies MLitt course is delivered by the School of Modern Languages, with the possibility of joint supervision with other schools. Attendance is flexible and agreed between students and their supervisors depending on the requirements of the research project.

Study consists mainly of tutorials and independent learning supported by research training. Supervisors will advise applicants on how to develop their research proposals, help them identify gaps in subject knowledge and research skills, and work in dialogue with them to develop their project.

The MLitt includes a formal research training component where students develop research skills and methodologies (20 credits).

Full-time students are expected to undertake 40 hours of work per week with an annual holiday entitlement of 35 days (including statutory and bank holidays). Part-time study requires a commitment of at least 20 hours per week.

Assessment Methods

Depending on the modules, students will be assessed through a combination of:

• Dissertation
• Essay

Additional assessment information

• Dissertation – a longer piece of academic writing that allows students to explore a subject of their choosing in depth and over a longer period of time.
• Essay – written work that explores a single question, posed in response to taught elements of the MLitt.

Your Development

Further Opportunities

Students will be encouraged to form connections with other postgraduate students and academics working in Japanese Studies in the UK and Ireland.

Your Future

Further Study

This course is an ideal route into PhD level study.

Careers

Specific career pathways will depend on the area of study. This programme will provide students with essential transferable skills: independence and initiative, resilience, planning and time management, as well as developing their research, presentation and communication skills to a high level.

Quality and Ranking

• 42% of research is classified as 4* world-leading research – Research Excellence Framework 2021
• 65% increase in research power since 2014 – Research Excellence Framework 2021
• Global Top 140 University – QS World University Rankings 2026
• Global Top 160 University - Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025
• Top 125 for Arts and Humanities – Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2025
• Top 200 for Modern Languages - QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025
• Top 25 in the UK and Top 100 in the world for sustainable development – Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024

Facilities

Students will have access to a dedicated quiet study space, as well as use of a common room with kitchen facilities.

The School also houses the Language Resource Centre. It has an extensive range of language learning facilities and resources, including:

• language learning software and resources for 100+ languages
• access to 15,000+ feature films and documentaries via the World TV & Film streaming platform
• access to 25 satellite television channels from around the world
• opportunities for language practice, cultural exchange and peer assisted learning

Fees and Funding

Tuition Fees for 2026 Entry (per year)

Qualification: MLitt Full time

• Home students: Full time: 12 months | Tuition fees (per year) Not set
• International students: Full time: 12 months | Tuition fees (per year) £24,400 Qualification: MLitt Part time
• Home students: Part time: 24 months | Tuition fees (per year) Not set

Scholarships

The university supports EU and international students by providing a generous range of Vice-Chancellor's automatic and merit-based scholarships.

Entry Requirements

Academic Entry Requirements

Normally a 2:1 honours degree, or international equivalent, in a related discipline.

Qualifications from Outside the UK

Students should check the university's website for specific entry requirements for their country.

English Language Requirements

Students should check the university's website for specific English language requirements for their course.

Admissions Policy

This policy applies to all undergraduate and postgraduate admissions at Newcastle University. It is intended to provide information about admissions policies and procedures to applicants and potential applicants, to their advisors and family members, and to staff of the University.

Credit Transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) can allow students to convert existing relevant university-level knowledge, skills and experience into credits towards a qualification.

How to Apply

Before You Start

• Start Dates: The course starts in September.
• Closing Dates: There is no application closing date for this course, but specific deadlines for funding may apply.

Specialised Application Information

Students need to submit a research proposal of up to 1,000 words with their online application. They should discuss their research proposal with a potential supervisor in the School of Modern Languages before they submit their formal application.

Deposit

If students are international students or students from the EU, EEA or Switzerland and they need a visa to study in the UK, they must:

• pay a deposit of £1,500
• or submit an official letter of sponsorship

The deposit is payable after students receive an offer to study with the university. The deposit is non-refundable, but the university will deduct it from their tuition fees when they register.