Japanese Language and Literature
In today’s increasingly globalized world, mastering a language is not only a means of communication but also a vital bridge to cultural, academic, and international cooperation. Japanese Language and Literature, with its rich cultural heritage and academic depth, is becoming an attractive major for international students in China.
Program Introduction
The Master's Program in Japanese Language and Literature is a key discipline under the language and literature category. It focuses on developing students' comprehensive knowledge of the Japanese language, literature, culture, and society.
Through systematic study, students will gain a deep understanding of the Japanese linguistic system, literary history, and comparative perspectives between Chinese and Japanese cultures.
The program integrates theoretical study and practical training, making it ideal for international students pursuing careers in language teaching, translation, research, and international communication.
Training Objectives
- Cultivate correct values and academic integrity, with strong political awareness and a sense of social responsibility; respect diverse cultures, comply with Chinese laws and university regulations;
- Systematically master fundamental theories and specialized knowledge in Japanese language and literature, understand recent developments in the field, and acquire the ability to engage in language teaching, cross-cultural communication, and both written and oral translation;
- Be capable of independently writing academic papers in Japanese and possess basic research skills;
- Master a second foreign language (e.g., English), proficiently use computer and internet tools, and have strong information retrieval and processing abilities;
- Maintain good physical and mental health and overall personal competence.
Who Is This Major Suitable For?
This major is particularly suitable for:
- Those who have a strong interest in the Japanese language, literature, and culture;
- Students aiming for careers in teaching, translation, media, or international affairs;
- Learners with strong self-study skills, critical thinking, and a passion for language and culture research;
- Those who wish to work in international environments, especially in Japanese companies or global organizations.
Study Mode and Duration
The program is offered in full-time mode. The standard duration is 2 to 4 years, with a maximum allowed period of 5 years. Students may arrange their academic progress flexibly based on their personal circumstances.
Curriculum
|
No. |
Course Title |
Credits |
|
1 |
Theories and Practice of Socialism with Chinese Characteristics |
2 |
|
2 |
Marxism and Methodology in Social Sciences |
1 |
|
3 |
Second Foreign Language: Integrated English |
2 |
|
4 |
Second Foreign Language: English Listening & Speaking |
2 |
|
5 |
History of Japanese Culture |
2 |
|
6 |
History of Japanese Literature |
2 |
|
7 |
Japanese Linguistics |
2 |
|
8 |
Comparative Literature between China and Japan |
2 |
|
9 |
Studies on Japanese Grammar |
2 |
|
10 |
Research Methodology and Academic Writing |
2 |
|
11 |
Topics in Japanese History |
2 |
|
12 |
Japanese Literary Trends and Schools |
2 |
|
13 |
Information Retrieval |
1 |
|
14 |
Chinese Language |
2 |
|
15 |
Comparative Studies of Chinese and Japanese Cultures |
2 |
|
16 |
Theory and Practice of Japanese Teaching |
2 |
|
17 |
Topics in Japanese Society |
2 |
|
18 |
Appreciation of Classical Japanese Literature |
2 |
|
19 |
Appreciation of Modern Japanese Literature |
2 |
|
20 |
Sociolinguistics |
2 |
|
21 |
Applied Linguistics |
2 |
|
22 |
Comparative Studies in Chinese-Japanese Translation |
2 |
|
23 |
Introduction to International Relations |
2 |
|
24 |
Geopolitics and Sino-Japanese Relations |
2 |
|
25 |
Comparative Studies of Chinese and Japanese Languages |
2 |
Professional Practice
Students are expected to engage in teaching practice, research training, literature seminars, and social surveys to strengthen academic and practical competencies:
- Participation in at least 5 academic activities during the program, including forums, lectures, and academic presentations;
- Involvement in at least 1 scientific research project to develop proper research methodology and independent research capability (1 credit);
- Social practice in institutions such as enterprises, media, and educational organizations is encouraged. Schools are advised to build internship bases to foster students' practical abilities;
- Literature seminars aim to improve the ability to absorb frontier knowledge, exercise critical thinking, and enhance oral expression.
Training Approach
The program adopts a supervisor-responsibility system guided by scientific research. Upon enrollment, each student should collaborate with their supervisor to formulate a personalized study plan including course selection, thesis direction, and internship activities.
- Emphasis is placed on cultivating political quality, innovation ability, practical problem-solving, and communication skills;
- Practical skills training includes participation in teaching assistance, research assistance, administrative work, and innovation-entrepreneurship activities.
Research Directions
- Japanese Literature: In-depth exploration of literary classics, schools of thought, and author styles, covering both diachronic and synchronic studies;
- Japanese Linguistics: Academic inquiry into grammar, syntax, phonetics, and lexicology, with systematic interpretation and research;
- Japanese Culture: Historical study of representative cultural phenomena and dominant trends across different periods in Japan;
- Japanese Society: Thematic studies of contemporary Japanese social issues, their origins, development, and social impacts with data analysis.
Degree Awarding
Upon completion of the required credits and successful defense of the master's thesis, students who meet all criteria set by the university will be conferred the degree of Master of Arts in Japanese Language and Literature.
Career Development
Graduates may work in universities, research institutes, government departments, cultural organizations, international agencies, translation companies, and media outlets. Career paths include teaching, research, translation, journalism, international exchange, and cultural promotion. Graduates may also pursue further doctoral studies or develop careers globally in related fields.
Related Majors
- Applied Linguistics
- Comparative Literature and World Literature
- Foreign Linguistics and Applied Linguistics
- Translation Studies
- Cultural Studies
Leading Universities in This Field in China
- Peking University
- Beijing Foreign Studies University
- Shanghai International Studies University
- Heilongjiang University
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University
- Nanjing University
- Zhejiang University
- Guangdong University of Foreign Studies
- Tsinghua University
- Beihang University
Evaluation of the Japanese Language and Literature Major
The Japanese Language and Literature major offers both high academic value and wide applicability. It provides in-depth training in language, literature, and culture, while also opening diverse career opportunities in education, translation, media, and diplomacy.
Given Japan’s strategic role in Asia and the close cooperation among China, Japan, and Vietnam, students in this major can build strong regional networks, improve multilingual abilities, and access rich academic resources in both Japanese and Chinese.
Studying this major in China also offers the advantage of experienced faculty, bilingual learning environments, and strong institutional support.
The above provides an overview of the Master’s program in Japanese Language and Literature. Visit the “Major Search” section to explore more details about study programs in China!
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