Modern Japanese Studies Program

The Modern Japanese Studies Program at Hokkaido University offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to deepen students' understanding of Japan's contemporary society, culture, politics, economy, and language. This program aims to cultivate experts with a nuanced perspective on Japan’s ongoing transformation in the modern era, equipping students with the interdisciplinary knowledge and regional expertise necessary to analyze complex issues related to Japan’s national development and its role in the global community. Through a combination of coursework, research, and practical experiences, students will explore various facets of Japanese society, including its political systems, economic trends, social dynamics, cultural practices, and media landscapes. The program emphasizes the importance of intercultural communication and language proficiency, providing rigorous Japanese language training to ensure students can engage effectively with primary sources and participate actively in Japanese academic and social contexts. Students are encouraged to conduct independent research, often involving fieldwork and data collection within Japan, fostering firsthand understanding of the cultural and societal nuances of contemporary Japan. The curriculum includes courses conducted in English and Japanese, designed to develop bilingual abilities and facilitate a deeper engagement with Japanese primary materials. Faculty members are distinguished scholars with expertise in various disciplines such as political science, sociology, history, economics, and cultural studies, offering students a multidisciplinary approach to Modern Japanese Studies. The program also promotes international exchange and collaboration opportunities, allowing students to participate in study abroad programs and joint research projects with partner institutions worldwide. Graduates of the Modern Japanese Studies Program will be well-prepared for careers in international relations, government, academia, business, and cultural institutions, contributing to cross-cultural understanding and diplomacy. The program’s holistic approach ensures that students not only acquire academic knowledge but also develop critical thinking, intercultural competence, and practical skills necessary for successful engagement with Japan's contemporary issues.

Intensive Japanese Course

An intensive 6-month course in the Japanese language. Reach approx. Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) Level N4.

Courses

• Japanese Language Classes (beginners to intermediate)
• Homeroom (includes basic introductions to Informatics and Study Skills)

Bachelor’s Degree: Years 1-2

Intensive education in the Japanese language. Reach approx. JLPT Level N3 or N2 by the end of the first year, and approx. Level N2 or N1 by the end of the second year. Introductory courses in Japanese Studies and general education courses.

Courses

• Japanese Language Classes (Foundational Japanese: intermediate to advanced)
• Applied Japanese
• Japanese Affairs
• Liberal Arts Courses and Foundation Courses
• Introduction to Informatics I
• General Education Seminars: Various courses in English based on the research specialties of the English speaking faculty members.
• Academic Writing
• Intercultural Exchange Seminars: Group-based learning with Japanese students in Japanese.
• Introduction to Japanese Studies I: History
• Introduction to Japanese Studies II: Culture
• Introduction to Japanese Studies III: Society
• Introduction to Japanese Studies IV: Political Economy
• Multiculturality in Hokkaido and Japan
• Aspects of Japan: Various classes taught in English by MJSP professors and professors from other faculties
• Modern Japanese Studies Workshop
• Seminar Study
• Project Study I (Study Plan)

Bachelor’s Degree: Years 3-4

Reach approx. JLPT Level 1 by the end of the third year. Classes in business and/or academic Japanese. Major/minor subject courses in English and/or Japanese. By the fourth year, most major/minor subject courses are taken in Japanese. Optional courses include an internship and study abroad. Undertake major self-study projects in the Digital Portfolio and Graduation Thesis.

 Courses

• Japanese History (Theory & Practice) I-III
• Japanese Culture (Theory & Practice) I-III
• Japanese Society (Theory & Practice) I-III
• Japanese Political Economy (Theory & Practice) I-III
• Advanced Business / Academic Japanese
• Major / Minor subjects related to Japanese Studies taught in Japanese in the Faculties of Law, Letters, Education and Economics
• Optional courses taught in Japanese in other faculties (for example, in Environmental Science)
• Study abroad (at one of Hokkaido University’s partner institutions)
• Internships
• Modern Japanese Studies Workshop
• Seminar Study
• Project Study II
• Project Study III: Graduation thesis (a substantial piece of original research)

• TOEFL-iBT: 79 or higher; TOEFL-PBT: 550 or higher
• IELTS (Academic Module): 6.5 or higher 
• Application form
• Educational background form 
• Photo
• Certificate of graduation (completion) from the high school you graduated from (completed) or a certificate of expected graduation (completion) (the date of graduation(completion) or the expected date of graduation(completion) should be written) (in English or Japanese) 
• Transcript from the high school you graduated from (completed) (the final transcript at graduation/completion) or a transcript from the high school you are attending (including all grades from the first semester of the first year to the latest semester) (in English or Japanese)
• Certificate of Japanese language proficiency. Individuals who have taken the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) should submit their test results certificate. Individuals who want to be exempt from taking the Intensive Japanese Course must submit their Japanese Language Proficiency Test Certified Results and Scores Certificate (N2 level or higher) or a test score certificate that can verify the same level or higher of Japanese language ability. *Past Japanese language study experience is not a factor in determining a student’s admission to the Bachelor’s Degree, but will be used to determine whether the student is exempt from taking the Intensive Japanese Course. *Exemption from the Intensive Japanese Course is det
• Standardized test results certificate for national exams and other exam
• Documents confirming your nationality or residency status 
• Personal statement
• Letter of recommendation (any format) 
• Application fee ¥5,000 

Scholarships

Hokkaido University has a scholarship program for students participating in the Modern Japanese Studies Program (the Modern Japanese Studies Program Scholarship Program). Details of that program are outlined below.

1. We are planning to waive the entire enrollment and tuition fees for the Intensive Japanese Course for October 2017 enrollees.
2. We are planning to waive the entire enrollment and tuition fees for the 2018 academic year for April 2018 enrollees in the Bachelor’s Degree.
3. In the second year and thereafter, all or half of the tuition fees will be waived for selected students based on academic performance. (Waivers will not be available to all students.) 

Modern Japanese Studies at Hokkaido University offers an in-depth exploration of contemporary Japan through an interdisciplinary approach that encompasses history, politics, society, culture, and language. The program is designed for students who wish to deepen their understanding of Japan's modern developments, societal dynamics, and cultural diversity. This program emphasizes a blend of academic rigor and practical language skills, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of Japan's position in the modern world and its internal complexities.

Students enrolled in this program have the opportunity to study Japanese language at various proficiency levels, enabling effective communication and fostering intercultural competence. The curriculum includes courses in Japanese history, politics, economics, and cultural studies, all taught by experts with extensive experience in their respective fields. The program may also encourage research projects and thesis work, allowing students to pursue specific interests related to modern Japan, such as social change, technological advancements, and international relations.

Hokkaido University’s location in Sapporo offers students unique opportunities for experiential learning and engagement with local communities, cultural festivals, and regional issues, enriching their academic experience. The university promotes a global academic environment, welcoming international students and fostering cross-cultural exchange. Students can participate in seminars, workshops, and various extracurricular activities that enhance their understanding of Japanese society and strengthen language skills.

Graduates of the Modern Japanese Studies program are equipped with critical analytical skills, cultural literacy, and language proficiency, suitable for careers in academia, government, international organizations, media, and businesses engaging with Japan. The program also provides a solid foundation for further academic pursuits, including graduate studies in Japanese studies or related fields. Overall, students gain a nuanced perspective on Japan’s modern identity, societal challenges, and cultural expressions, preparing them for active participation in international and intercultural contexts.