Japanese Language Program

The University of Kansas offers Japanese through the Department of East Asian Languages and Cultures (EALC).

Why Take Japanese?

In addition to serving as a mediator of Western scientific and technological knowledge for Asia, Japan is a center of commerce, trade, education, and culture in East Asia. Today, in Asia, "Japan is in vogue," writes a Taiwanese scholar. Japan is a trendsetter for Asian fashion, and "Japanese cultural commodities are ubiquitous" throughout Asia (and, one might add, through manga, anime, Godzilla, Ultraman and Pokemon, throughout the West as well.)

Knowledge of Japanese language and culture is an asset in a wide range of careers. Students taking Japanese can also apply for scholarships for language study, including FLAS Fellowships.

Students can use Japanese to fulfill a language requirement, or as part of numerous degree programs, including majors, minors and graduate degrees.

Available Courses

KU offers elementary through advanced coursework in Japanese. See all courses taught at KU below, or check out our list of what's offered for the current semester. For placement information visit the School of Languages, Literatures and Cultures.

KU Japanese Language Courses

Study Abroad

KU offers numerous opportunities to study abroad in Japan. Some of these programs have classes taught in English, while others are opportunities for advanced language study.

Degrees

Japanese language courses can be a part of many degree programs, whether used to fulfill a language requirement, or completing a major, minor or graduate degree focused on East Asia. Here are a few degree programs students frequently combine with Japanese language study, but talk to your academic advisor to explore all your options.

Many students who study Japanese choose to complete a major, minor, or graduate degree with the Department of East Asian Languages and Cultures. The Center for East Asian Studies also offers an M.A. in Contemporary East Asian Studies.
Many other degree programs within the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences offer significant content on Japan, and also require foreign language study, which can be met with Japanese. For more information, look at current degree requirements and course offerings. Some departments to consider include Anthropology, Art History, Film and Media Studies, Geography, Global and International Studies, History, Political Science, Religious Studies, Sociology, and Visual Art.
For students who want to teach Japanese at the K-12 level, check out degree options through the KU School of Education.
The KU School of Business offers a concentration in International Business which can include substantial content on East Asian language, culture and business.
For Law students, KU offers a joint degree in Law and East Asian Languages and Cultures.

Career Planning

The KU Career Center has online resources for exploring career paths for different majors. Check out the specifics for East Asian Languages and Cultures, or look at those for other majors (including those listed above.)
KU students can also sign up for a free account with My World Abroad, which has extensive resources on preparing for an international career, including career options, and job search tips.