The Program can accommodate students who have had one to four years of prior language training. The Japanese language teachers are native speakers with graduate training in Japanese linguistics or the teaching of Japanese as a second language. Japanese Studies Courses . The Japanese studies courses provide a broad introduction to Japanese society and culture. Japanese studies courses meet three hours each week.
Courses change somewhat each year, but are usually offered in the following areas.
Because the Kansai area of Japan has a rich cultural and historical heritage, where appropriate, courses include visits to relevant sites. Faculty for the Japanese studies courses are selected from the faculty of Konan University and from American scholars residing in Japan. The Resident Director also teaches one course each semester. Subject to approval, students may pursue independent study projects guided by advisors or tutors, as appropriate. As a program of the Department of East Asian Languages and Cultures, courses are given full University of Illinois academic credit.