Program Overview

Program Overview

The University of Sydney offers a major in Japanese Studies, which is one of the oldest of its kind in the English-speaking world. This major prepares students to be active participants in a multicultural world by offering training in the Japanese language and culture.

About the Major

The major in Japanese Studies celebrates its 100th year in 2017 and is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the Japanese language and culture. With a large network of partner universities in Japan, students will have the opportunity to undertake an unforgettable in-country exchange program experience, further honing their language and cultural skills.

Program Structure and Content

Culture units use Japanese materials to present various aspects of ancient to contemporary Japan, ranging across disciplines from history and literature to popular culture. Even if students have no previous knowledge of the language, they will gain basic literacy in Japanese and the ability to express themselves in everyday situations. If students finish their major at the highest level, they will graduate with quite a fluent proficiency of the language.

Pathways and Language Levels

Students will follow the appropriate pathway specified in the unit of study tables, based on their individual language level. Appropriate language units are determined either by language level and grade therein achieved in Higher School Certificate (as listed in the pathways linked above) or International Baccalaureate, and/or by one-on-one interviews prior to commencement. The Japanese Studies (Advanced) pathway is suitable for HSC continuers 90 and above or HSC extension 75 and above.

Graduate Opportunities

Our graduates enter a wide range of careers, including:

• Communications and media officer
• Diplomat
• Foreign affairs officer
• Cultural or development officer
• International relations and trade
• Language specialist
• Teacher (with further study)
• Policy analyst
• Public service positions
• Translator and interpreter
• Travel and tourism consultant

Courses that Offer this Major

To commence study in the year, students can refer to the course information on the University's website. The course information applies only to future students, and current students should refer to faculty handbooks for current or past course information.