Japanese Studies, BA

Program Overview

Hope College's Japanese Studies major emphasizes Japanese language proficiency, cultural understanding, and interdisciplinary exploration. Students complete 18 credits in Japanese language courses and 12 credits in electives, including advanced Japanese and Japan-related courses from other disciplines. The program prepares graduates for careers requiring Japanese language skills and knowledge of Japanese culture.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Japanese Studies major at Hope College focuses on developing fluency in the Japanese language, deepening understanding of Japanese culture, and allowing students to pursue specialized fields of study. The program combines language and culture courses with interdisciplinary courses from other disciplines.

Outline:

• Japanese: 18 credits
• JAPN 101 - Japanese I
• JAPN 102 - Japanese II
• JAPN 201 - Japanese III
• JAPN 202 - Japanese IV
• JAPN 301 - Japanese V
• JAPN 302 - Japanese VI
• Electives: 12 credits
• Students can choose from a variety of elective courses in advanced Japanese or interdisciplinary courses related to Japan, in consultation with their Japanese Studies advisor.
• Elective course options include:
• HIST 314 - The History of Japan and Korea since 1600: At the Origins of Modernity
• IDS 280 - Contemporary Issues in Japan
• JAPN 395 - Studies in Japanese Language and Literature
• JAPN 399 - Apprentice Teaching Internship
• JAPN 490 - Special Problems in Japanese
• JAPN 495 - Studies in Japanese Language, Literature and Translation
• JAPN 499 - Internship in Japanese
• PHIL 237 - World Philosophies I
• POL 303 - Asian Politics