Japanese
The Japanese program provides students with an opportunity to concentrate on acquiring expertise in an important modern language and its culture. Giving students a strong working knowledge of the Japanese language and understanding of Japanese culture, the program can help prepare students for work in contexts where the language and culture are pertinent, to live and work in Japan as informed and capable individuals equipped with appropriate intercultural skills and awareness, or for graduate study in Japan-related fields. Graduates may work in government service, domestic and foreign offices, or international agencies. Many go on to teach English in Japan or to do translation work. Employment may also be available with trade organizations, international banking houses, or U.S. companies abroad. Domestic and multinational companies are increasingly seeking employees with backgrounds in multicultural studies as a way of dealing with the global market.
Degree Types: Bachelor of Arts, Minor
Degree Options
Popular Double Majors or Minors
- Asian Studies
About the Program
Why should I pursue this degree?
You might like this program if…
- You are interested in Japanese language, culture, history, or society.
- You want to live or work in Japan.
- You are aiming for a career involving travel to Japan and interaction with native speakers of Japanese.
Transferable Skills
- Cross-Cultural Communication
- Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving
- Attention to Detail and Organizational Skills
- Research and Analytical Skill
- Adaptability
Coursework
Opportunities to explore the following topics:
- Japanese Language
- Japanese Warrior Culture Beyond Anime
- Gods to Godzilla
- Japanese Film, Culture, and Media
- Japan in the World
Out-of-Classroom Experiences
Education Abroad Destinations
Costa Rica
Japan
Career Paths
Continuing Education
- Law school
- Graduate school to study linguistics, taxation, sociology
Job Titles
- Human Resources and Business Consultant
- Media and Communications Director
- Translator or Interpreter
- Foreign Legal Consultant
- Corporate Counsel
- Language Teacher
- Sales Manager
- Professor
Industries
Business Analysis, Corporate Strategy, Education, Marketing
Employers
- Deloitte
- Subaru of America
- CRDF Global
- Japan Exchange and Teaching Program
- JPMorgan
- Chase & Co
- Air Products
- Universities
Have questions about this program?
Future students, contact the Liberal Arts Recruitment Team.
Current students, contact your academic adviser.
This program is housed
in the Department of Asian Studies
at Penn State University Park.