Program Overview

Introduction to the Master's Program in Japanology

The University of Zurich offers a consecutive Master's program in Japanology, which can be studied in three specializations: General Japanology, Japanese Philology, and Social Science Analysis of Japan. The program aims to expand students' knowledge and methodological skills in their chosen specialization and research topics.

Program Objectives

The Master's program in Japanology is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of Japan and its culture, society, and history. The program's objectives include:

• Expanding students' knowledge of Japan and its culture, society, and history
• Developing students' methodological skills in their chosen specialization
• Preparing students for a career in various fields, including diplomacy, administration, journalism, cultural exchange, and specialized translation

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Master's program in Japanology can pursue careers in various fields, including:

• Diplomacy and administration
• Journalism
• Cultural exchange
• Specialized translation
• Private business
• Academic research

Program Structure

The Master's program in Japanology consists of three specializations:

General Japanology

This specialization allows students to deepen their knowledge of Japan and its culture, society, and history. Students can choose from a wide range of courses in social science Japanology and Japanese philology.

Japanese Philology

This specialization focuses on the scientific study of Japanese literature and intellectual history from ancient times to the present. Students will engage with historical and modern sources, as well as current research literature.

Social Science Analysis of Japan

This specialization enables students to identify and analyze scientific questions related to Japanese society, politics, and economy. Students will learn to analyze primary data and social science research literature, and will gain in-depth knowledge of the core subjects of sociology, economics, and political science.

Admission Requirements

The admission requirements for the Master's program in Japanology include:

• A Bachelor's degree in East Asian Studies (with at least 42 ECTS credits)
• A Bachelor's degree in another field (with admission subject to conditions)
• German language proficiency at level C1 (for major) or C1 (for minor)
• English language proficiency at level C1 (for minor)

Additional Information

For international students, the admission requirements include:

• A Bachelor's degree (for details, please see the Study Guide)
• German or English language proficiency at level C1