Master of Arts in Japanese Studies
Explore Japan’s culture, society, and history through interdisciplinary research and language expertise.
Best for:Best for students with a strong interest in Japan’s culture, history, or society who seek interdisciplinary research training and advanced Japanese language proficiency.
Overview
This Master of Arts programme at Universität Zürich offers a deep dive into Japan from cultural, social, and philological perspectives. Students develop advanced Japanese language skills, including historical dialects, while engaging with original sources and contemporary research. The curriculum allows specialization in general Japanese studies, philology, or social-scientific analysis. Graduates emerge with critical research abilities, demonstrated through a thesis addressing cutting-edge questions in Japan studies.
What you'll do
- Develop advanced proficiency in modern and historical Japanese language and literature.
- Conduct independent research using original Japanese and Western sources.
- Engage with interdisciplinary methodologies to analyze Japan’s culture and society.
- Develop critical thinking and analytical skills through coursework and seminars.
- Complete a thesis demonstrating research proficiency and academic rigor.
- Participate in academic discussions and contribute to the broader field of Japan studies.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor’s degree in Japanese Studies, Humanities, Social Sciences, or a related field
Degree offered: Master of Arts (MA)
Language: German proficiency (required for university administration and some coursework)
Instruction: German and English (with Japanese as the primary subject of study)
- Proficiency in academic Japanese (proven by prior studies or language certification)
- Basic knowledge of research methodologies in humanities and social sciences
- Ability to work with original language sources and scholarly literature
- Open to international applicants
- No age restrictions
- No specific residency requirements mentioned
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
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How to apply
Applicants must apply through the official Universität Zürich portal. Submit a completed application form, academic transcripts, proof of language proficiency, and a research proposal or statement of purpose. Additional documents may be required based on prior education.
- CV or curriculum vitae
- Bachelor’s degree transcripts
- Proof of German language proficiency (if applicable)
- Letter of motivation or research proposal
- Two letters of recommendation
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