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Master of Arts in Japanese Studies

Explore modern and historical Japan through language, culture, and interdisciplinary research at Universität Zürich.

Best for:Best for students with a passion for Japanese language, culture, and history who seek interdisciplinary research training and wish to pursue careers in academia, diplomacy, or international organizations.

Universität Zürich · Zürich, Switzerland
More professors at Universität Zürich
Modern Japanese languageHistorical Japanese philologyJapanese social sciencesCultural debates on JapanInterdisciplinary research methods
This is a masters position — not a PhD studentship.
Deadline
—
Funding
—
Start date
Flexible (depends on admission and programme intake)
Location
Zürich
Switzerland

Overview

This Master’s programme in Japanese Studies at Universität Zürich offers a deep dive into Japan’s contemporary and historical aspects, including language, literature, and social sciences. Students engage with cutting-edge research methods and debates, gaining expertise to critically analyze Japan-based issues. The curriculum blends philology, social science theories, and practical language skills, preparing graduates for academic or professional careers in Japan-related fields. The programme is designed for those seeking rigorous interdisciplinary training and a strong foundation in Japanese studies.

Japanese StudiesModern Japanese languageHistorical Japanese philologySocial scientific research methodsInterdisciplinary humanitiesArea StudiesAsian StudiesComparative cultural analysis

What you'll do

  • Develop advanced proficiency in modern and historical Japanese language and writing styles.
  • Engage in interdisciplinary research combining philology, social sciences, and cultural studies.
  • Analyze and contribute to debates on Japan through academic research and critical thinking.
  • Form independent, evidence-based opinions on Japan-related topics using the latest research.
  • Collaborate with faculty and peers on research projects and academic discussions.

Requirements

Degree required: Bachelor’s degree in Japanese Studies, Humanities, Social Sciences, or a related field (e.g., Linguistics, Cultural Studies, or equivalent).

Degree offered: Master of Arts (MA) in Japanese Studies

Language: English proficiency (equivalent to IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 90); German proficiency may be advantageous for academic collaboration.

Instruction: German and English

Required skills
  • Proficient reading and writing skills in modern Japanese.
  • Basic knowledge of historical Japanese language styles.
  • Familiarity with research methods in philology and social sciences.
  • Strong analytical and critical thinking abilities.
Nice to have
Prior academic or professional exposure to Japanese culture or history.Experience with digital humanities tools or computational methods.Fluency in German or another European language (for academic collaboration).
Eligibility
  • No specific nationality restrictions.
  • No age limits.
  • No prior experience caps beyond the Bachelor’s degree requirement.

Funding & terms

Type
Unknown
Amount
—
Duration
—
Programme
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Programme and admissions

Admissions not verified

A catalogue listing does not mean applications are open or funding is guaranteed. Check the source for your intake.

Intake
Not confirmed by the source
Duration
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Teaching language
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Taught / research mode
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Study mode
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Campus
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Prerequisites
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Application instructions
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Tuition
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Funding
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How to apply

Applicants must submit their application through the official Universität Zürich portal. Required documents include a CV, academic transcripts, a letter of motivation, and proof of language proficiency. Additional materials may be requested depending on the programme specifics.

Documents required
  • CV
  • Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s degree)
  • Letter of motivation
  • Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent)
  • Proof of German proficiency (if applicable)
  • Letter of recommendation (if required)
↗Check programme and admissions
Lab
Department of Asian and Oriental Studies
Universität Zürich
Switzerland
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Check admissions, intake and funding with the official source; a listing does not mean applications are open.