We offer a full four years of rigorous Japanese language instruction, as well as courses on Japanese history, historical linguistics, popular culture (including manga, film and anime), and Japanese literature of the classical, early modern and modern periods. Courses covering Japanese religion, political science, East Asian history and Chinese studies are also offered at UM and may be counted as outside electives for the Japanese major.

Japanese is one of the most popular languages in the department of Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures, with a consistent core of majors and minors. Our course offerings equip students with the language skills and cultural knowledge necessary for a career in Japan-focused fields, whether in Japan or elsewhere.

Why Study Japanese at UM?

Japan is the world’s third largest economy, and home to a number of major international firms, particularly in the worlds of finance and high technology. It boasts a uniquely rich history and literary tradition, which also informs its current status as a world leader in cultural media such as animation, graphic novels, fashion, film, food culture, and video games. The city of Tokyo will also play host to the 2020 Summer Olympics.