The Japanese major combines thorough training in spoken and written language with study of Japanese culture through a broad range of materials and approaches, including classical and modern literature, linguistics, history, philosophy, visual arts and popular culture. Most courses are conducted in Japanese.
Language courses form the core of the major.
Students are expected to study Japanese for four years. This is followed by courses in language and culture. One or both semesters of junior year are usually spent abroad. The major culminates in a Senior Seminar paper or Senior Honors Thesis on a topic of the student's choice relating to Japanese culture. Majors are strongly recommended to fulfill the history portion of their general education requirement by taking courses in Japanese, Chinese or Asian history.