Japanese BA

Course overview

This course allows you to develop your Japanese language skills and understanding of Japanese politics, history and culture. It’s open to students coming to the subject as an absolute beginner, as well as those with intermediate-level Japanese.

Japan plays a significant role in both the global economy and international politics. It is home to a rich culture and history and a varied, changing society, boasting cultural ‘cool’ and high-tech innovation. However, it also faces complex social changes, all of which your studies will help you understand.

You’ll become part of a community of staff and students in East Asian Studies at Leeds, whose expertise spans both Northeast and Southeast Asia. This means you’ll gain an understanding of both Japan and the broader region around it. In addition to travelling to Japan in your second year you can take modules on Chinese literature, Korean society and the broader East Asian region.

This course is intended for non-native speakers of Japanese only.

Entry requirements

A-level: ABB

GCSE: 4/C in a foreign language

Other course specific tests:

International Baccalaureate

Career opportunities

A degree in Japanese equips you with the knowledge and skills to pursue a range of careers. Our graduates have gone on to work in the media, translation and interpreting, teaching, business and finance, and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, amongst many other fields.

We are committed to helping you achieve your career ambitions. You’ll benefit from bespoke support and opportunities in the School and the University.

Our experts in the award-winning University Careers Centre will support you to make informed decisions about your career path, understand the opportunities available and the steps you need to take to pursue your choices. You’ll be encouraged to attend on-campus events including graduate recruitment fairs, employer networking and information sessions, and meetings with our alumni.

Leeds University Union provides career-related support through the part-time job hub, student societies and other activities throughout the year. Clubs and societies are a great way to get involved in lots of activities and explore your interests. They’re also a great way to develop your skills such as team working and leadership. For example, you could be a key player in an award-winning sports team, or become a committee member and chair society meetings, or you could even project manage a volunteering trip overseas. The Union is home to School Reps who are appointed by students to represent the views and be the voice of students in your School.

At Leeds, you can access support to help you start your own business. Whether you want to learn about enterprise or become an entrepreneur, we offer award-winning specialist support.