BA Japanese Studies

Manchester, England

 

INTAKE: Jan & Sept

Program Overview

The BA Japanese Studies program at the University of Manchester is a comprehensive degree designed to immerse students in the language, culture, history, and society of Japan. This program combines intensive language training with deep dives into Japan’s unique cultural, political, and historical landscape. Students develop fluency in Japanese, while also gaining an understanding of key aspects of Japanese society such as literature, film, history, and business. The program is ideal for students with a passion for Japanese culture and language who wish to pursue a career in international relations, business, or academia with a focus on Japan.

Curriculum: The BA Japanese Studies curriculum at the University of Manchester is structured to offer a balanced combination of language acquisition and cultural understanding. In the first year, students focus on building foundational Japanese language skills, learning grammar, conversation, and reading comprehension. They are also introduced to aspects of Japanese culture and society. As they progress into their second and third years, students delve deeper into specialized areas, including Japanese literature, cinema, politics, economics, and history. The final year allows students to engage in independent research and work on projects tailored to their interests. The program also offers opportunities to study abroad in Japan, where students can immerse themselves in the language and culture for a more enriching academic experience.

Research Focus: The University of Manchester offers a strong research focus within the BA Japanese Studies program, with an emphasis on critical thinking, cross-disciplinary approaches, and specialized research in Japanese studies. Research topics include Japanese literature, popular culture, cinema, history, and contemporary society. Faculty members specialize in various areas, including post-war Japanese literature, media studies, and Japanese politics, ensuring students are exposed to cutting-edge research and academic practices. The program encourages students to engage in independent research projects, where they can explore their own interests in the field of Japanese studies.

Industry Engagement: The BA Japanese Studies program at the University of Manchester is designed with industry engagement in mind, offering students opportunities to gain practical experience and apply their academic knowledge. The university has strong links with a wide range of industries, including international business, media, education, and the arts, where Japanese language skills and cultural understanding are in high demand. Students are encouraged to take part in internships, placements, and study-abroad programs to build their professional networks. These industry connections open up opportunities in sectors such as translation, diplomacy, media, and business. The university’s location in a major global city also offers students access to a variety of cultural and professional events that enrich their academic experience.

Global Perspective: The University of Manchester provides a truly global perspective in the BA Japanese Studies program. Through the opportunity to study abroad in Japan, students are immersed in Japanese society, gaining firsthand experience of the language and culture in its natural context. The university’s diverse student body further enhances this global experience, as students engage with peers from around the world, discussing global issues related to Japan’s role in international politics, economics, and culture. With Japan being a major global player in fields like technology, economics, and entertainment, the BA Japanese Studies program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in an interconnected world.

Pollster Education

Location

Manchester, England

Pollster Education

Score

IELTS 6.5

Pollster Education

Tuition Fee

£ 26500

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 80% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.

English language proficiency:

  • IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual component below 6.0.
  • TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 90.
  • PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 70.
  • Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

The University of Manchester offers a range of scholarships to support international students in funding their education and making their academic journey more accessible. These scholarships are designed to reward academic excellence, support students from diverse backgrounds, and help ease the financial challenges of studying abroad.

Global Futures Scholarship: The Global Futures Scholarship is a prestigious award for international students who demonstrate academic excellence and potential. This scholarship offers a £5,000 contribution towards tuition fees, providing financial assistance for undergraduate and postgraduate students. This scholarship is open to students from specific countries and disciplines, so it is essential to check eligibility criteria and deadlines.

Undergraduate Scholarships: The university also offers various undergraduate scholarships for international students applying to programs such as law, business, engineering, and the humanities. These scholarships are based on academic achievement and help ease the burden of tuition fees. Some specific subject areas may have unique scholarships based on the department's needs and goals.

Subject-Specific Scholarships: Many departments at the University of Manchester offer subject-specific scholarships for students enrolling in their programs. For example, students applying for programs in engineering, business, life sciences, and the arts may be eligible for additional funding based on academic performance and their future potential. These scholarships are often offered to high-achieving students who demonstrate exceptional skills and dedication to their field of study.

Chevening Scholarships: The Chevening Scholarship is a fully-funded award provided by the UK government, open to outstanding international students from over 160 countries. The scholarship covers tuition fees, living costs, travel expenses, and other related costs. The University of Manchester is a proud participant in this global program and welcomes applications from students wishing to pursue a master's degree in a variety of disciplines.

Regional Scholarships: The university also offers regional scholarships for students from specific countries or regions, including Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. These scholarships are designed to make studying at the University of Manchester more accessible to students from these regions and offer both partial and full financial support depending on the scholarship type.

Graduates of the BA Japanese Studies program from the University of Manchester are equipped with a versatile skill set that opens up numerous career opportunities in various industries. The program’s combination of language proficiency and cultural knowledge prepares students for professional roles in both Japan and international settings. 

Translation and Interpretation: Graduates with advanced Japanese language skills can work as professional translators or interpreters in a variety of fields such as business, law, literature, or diplomacy. Opportunities exist for both written and spoken translation, with roles available in international organizations, translation agencies, and corporate settings.

International Business and Trade: Many graduates pursue careers in international business, working for multinational companies involved in trade, marketing, sales, or business development. Fluency in Japanese and an understanding of Japanese business culture are highly valued in industries like automotive, technology, and consumer goods.

Diplomacy and International Relations: Graduates can enter the world of diplomacy and international relations, representing Japan or acting as intermediaries in international organizations, embassies, and consulates. These roles require strong language skills and a deep understanding of Japan's political and economic landscape.

Education and Teaching: Graduates can become Japanese language instructors in schools, universities, or private language schools, teaching both native and non-native speakers. With the growing interest in Japanese culture worldwide, teaching Japanese as a foreign language remains a popular career choice.

Media and Journalism: Graduates with a passion for media can pursue careers as journalists, editors, or content creators, working for international news outlets, magazines, or TV channels that focus on Japan or Asia. Their language proficiency and cultural expertise are key assets in providing accurate and engaging content on Japanese affairs.

Cultural and Arts Management: Graduates can enter the cultural sector, working in museums, galleries, film festivals, and cultural institutions that engage with Japanese art, cinema, and history. These roles involve organizing exhibitions, events, and cultural exchanges between Japan and other countries.

Tourism and Hospitality: With their deep knowledge of Japan’s culture and language, graduates can pursue careers in the tourism industry, managing travel companies, working as tour guides, or engaging in travel consultancy services. Japanese tourism is an expanding global sector, and language skills are essential for professionals working with Japanese-speaking clients.

Public Relations and Marketing: Graduates can find opportunities in PR firms, advertising agencies, or marketing departments of companies seeking to engage with Japanese-speaking markets or promote Japanese products globally. Marketing campaigns targeting Japan or involving Japanese consumers require specialized knowledge of the culture and language.

Publishing and Literature: Graduates can work in publishing, editing, or literary translation, focusing on translating Japanese literature for international readers or working with Japanese authors and publishers to promote their works globally.

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Charitable Work: Graduates can contribute to the development and humanitarian sectors by working with NGOs or charitable organizations that operate in Japan or with Japanese communities worldwide. Roles may involve working in education, community development, and disaster relief efforts.

Research and Academia: For those interested in pursuing further studies, the BA Japanese Studies program offers a strong foundation for postgraduate research in Japanese language, literature, politics, and culture. Graduates can pursue academic careers as researchers, university lecturers, or professors specializing in Japanese studies.


Similar Courses
WhatsApp Enquiry Call Enquiry