
Japanese Studies BA
School of East Asian Studies
You are viewing this course for 2021-22 entry.
Key details
- A Levels ABB
Other entry requirements - UCAS code T210
- 4 years / Full-time
- Find out the course fee
- Foreign language study
- Study abroad
Course description

Complex, unique, endlessly fascinating, Japan embraces modernity and technology while maintaining its rich traditional culture. To truly understand Japan, you have to experience it. You have to immerse yourself in it.
We teach Japanese intensively, from scratch. You will study the phonetic scripts (kana) from the outset, picking up the 2000 Sino-Japanese characters (kanji) over the course of your degree.
Most importantly, you will spend your third year studying at one of our partner universities in Japan. More than just a chance to put what you've learned into practice, this year is an experience you won't forget.
Energised and inspired, you'll return to Sheffield for your final year. The language training continues, now at a more advanced level. Supervised by an academic, you'll research and write a dissertation on a topic of your choice.
Modules
The modules listed below are examples from the last academic year. There may be some changes before you start your course. For the very latest module information, check with the department directly.
Choose a year to see modules for a level of study:
UCAS code: T210
Years: 2021
In your first year you will begin your language learning by focusing on reading, writing, listening and speaking, working with qualified native-speaker language teachers, using specially designed course material.
Through our Exploring East Asia module you will be provided with essential knowledge of the East Asia region, its history, politics, geography and culture. This will give you a greater understanding of Japan, what shaped it and how it may develop in the future.
Core modules:
- Exploring East Asia
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This module introduces students to the study of modern East Asia. Beginning by encouraging consideration of what the subject of East Asian Studies is, it then introduces the following key topics: East Asian Geography and Environment, History, Culture and Media, Economics and Business, and Political Relations. In parallel with this content, the module also introduces core academic skills as follows: independent, lecture and seminar study; reflective practice; critical information, digital and visual literacy; evidence and argument in academic writing, and appropriate examination techniques. These two elements provide a firm foundation of knowledge and abilities for higher level study.
20 credits - Japanese Language 1A
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This module is focusing on receptive activities and written productive activities in Japanese language. It aims to enable students to acquire basic competence in grammar, reading, writing and translation both from and into Japanese. Every week carefully designed grammar structures and vocabulary will be introduced so that students will be able to do something practical in Japanese. Kanji (Chinese characters) as well as Japanese characters (hiragana and katakana) are introduced from the earliest stages.
20 credits - Japanese Language 2A
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This module is focusing on receptive activities and written productive activities in Japanese language. This module builds on the achievement of Japanese Language 1A and introduces further grammatical structures of the Japanese language with a view to further developing reading, writing and translation skills. Every week carefully designed grammar structures and vocabulary will be introduced so that students will be able to do something practical in Japanese. At the end of this level students should complete the beginner¿s level which is roughly equivalent to JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) N4 or CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) A2.
20 credits - Japanese Language 1B
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This module is focusing on interactive activities in Japanese. It aims to enable students to acquire basic competence in speaking and listening skills. Every week carefully designed grammar structures and vocabulary will be introduced so that students will be able to communicate in Japanese through a variety of daily activities.
10 credits - Japanese Language 2B
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This module is focusing on interactive activities in Japanese. This module is built on the achievement of EAS146 and develop speaking and listening skills further to provide the grounding necessary for intermediate study. Every week carefully designed grammar structures and vocabulary will be introduced so that students will be able to communicate in Japanese through a variety of activities. At the end of this level students should complete the beginner's level which is roughly equivalent to JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) N4 or CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) A2.
10 credits
Optional modules:
You will take one of the following Understanding Japan modules. Each module has a humanities or social sciences focus and will look at a core text, which has played a significant role in developing an intricate, understanding of Japan. The content of these modules change regularly to ensure they are topical and make the best use of our staff expertise.
you can take up to 20 credits in guided modules from across the University.
- Understanding Japan 1
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This module explores what it means to study Japan at university level, and considers how `area studies' research on Japan fits within a discipline such as political science, international relations or economics. We will work on a combination of new and established research to explore one core topic - in this year, the development of party politics in contemporary Japan. We will consider how politics has been researched, how researchers use conceptual frameworks and types primary evidence to understand Japan's political landscape; how to navigate key debates in a field and evaluate competing arguments. You will finish this module with a deep understanding of our core topic and research, critical and writing skills that you can apply and develop in further study.
20 credits - Understanding Japan 2
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This module explores what it means to study Japan at university level, and considers how `area studies¿ research on Japan fits within a discipline such as history or cultural studies. We will work on a combination of new and established research to explore one core topic ¿ in this year, the legacies of war and defeat in Japan after 1945. We will consider how histories of post-war Japan are built, how researchers use primary evidence in text and/or images to understand change; how to navigate key debates in a field and evaluate competing arguments. You will finish this module with a deep understanding of our core topic and research, critical and writing skills that you can apply and develop in further study.
20 credits
At level 2 you will develop your understanding of Japan and begin to explore disciplines such as history, politics or culture in more detail. Your modules will help you develop disciple specific skills which may include
- Understanding economic and business models
- Analysing policy and writing policy briefs
- Critiquing visual art such as film
- Forming and debating a coherent argument
In your language classes you will build on what you have learnt in your first year and focus on language which will help you on your year abroad.
Core modules:
- Japanese Language 3A
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This module is focusing on receptive activities and written productive activities in Japanese language at lower intermediate level. This module acts as a transition between the teacher-centred learning required for the acquisition of basic language skills, and the autonomous and self-directed learning required to progress at intermediate and advanced levels. Translation and functional reading skills are extended, with texts including annotated topical materials. Techniques for tackling unseen materials are developed and grammar knowledge is consolidated and expanded. Practical knowledge of kanji is raised to roughly 800 characters. Students develop skills needed to make best use of the Year Abroad programme.
20 credits - Japanese Language 4A
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This module is focusing on receptive and written productive activities in Japanese language at mid-intermediate level. This module continues to act as a transition towards the autonomous and self-directed learning required to progress at intermediate and advanced levels. Grammar knowledge is consolidated and expanded and practical knowledge of kanji is expanded. Further functional reading skills and precise Japanese-English translation skills are introduced. The use of written Japanese appropriate to a variety of social contexts (i.e. life in Japan) is developed. The target level at the end of the level is roughly equivalent to JLPT N3 and CEFR B2.
20 credits - Japanese Language 3B
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This module is focusing on interactive activities in Japanese language at lower intermediate level working towards JLPT N3 and CEFRB1. Every week students are made aware of and given the opportunity to practise spoken applications of specific themes, which is shared with the grammar and writing components. Students develop skills needed to make best use of the Year Abroad programme.
10 credits - Japanese Language 4B
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This module is focusing on oral and aural activities in Japanese language at intermediate level. This module is designed in the light of the year abroad in Japan. Students are made aware of and given the opportunity to practice spoken applications of specific situations. There will be two main themes: giving a presentation and settling-in in Japan. The target level at the end of this level is roughly equivalent to JLPT N3 and CEFR B2.
10 credits
Optional modules: Block A
You will take one of the following modules
- Mass Culture and Digital Society in East Asia
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This module takes a transcultural approach to the study of mass culture and digital society in East Asia, tracing the adoption, adaptation, and innovation of a variety of media over the twentieth and twenty-first century. We will examine how mass culture, from radio and literature to art, entertainment and social media have continuously negotiated the concept of “national” identity across East Asia.
20 credits - Gender and Identities in East Asia
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This module offers an overview of the study of gender and its connection to social, cultural, political and economic discourses across East Asia. Covering key issues related to the structures and dynamics of gender in East Asia, we learn to situate these dynamics in their historical and cultural context using case studies drawn from across the region.
20 credits
Optional modules:
Plus on of the modules listed below
you can take up to 20 credits in guided modules from across the University.
- Contemporary Japanese Society
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This module explores key factors shaping contemporary Japanese society, while developing core disciplinary skills in the contemporary social sciences - anthropology, sociology, geography and cultural studies. Our particular focus will be on the last twenty years as post-Bubble Japan has entered a period of economic decline, prompting a series of debates about the effects of this change on society. Students will develop a strong understanding of these social changes and the social scientific debates regarding them, and the methods and practices used to conduct contemporary social scientific research in Japan today.
20 credits - East Asian Cinema
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This module will examine key East Asian film directors, cinematic movements and industry developments since 1945, and introduce you to some of the key cinematic theoretical frameworks such as national and global cinemas, gender, spectatorship. We will examine the ways in which selected films and directors interact with the history and culture of their respective nations. We will also teach and assess a range of transferable media skills. This module is designed to encourage students to critically examine both the text (the films) and the context (the national environmental, film festival circuit, film finance) that surrounds any film work.
20 credits - Environment and Development of the Japanese Islands
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This module takes geographical, ecological, socio-cultural and political-economic perspectives in charting the emergence of Japan as the world’s first non-Western developed country. Beginning with Japan’s geological formation in pre-history and ending with a speculative enquiry into the state of Japan in 2100, the module assesses the human and ecological consequences of Japan’s development within the country’s Asian, Pacific, and global contexts.
20 credits - Evolution of the Japanese Language
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The module introduces the language and representative examples of the main literary genres - including poetry, travelogues, diaries, tales and military chronicles - from the Nara period to the mid-Edo period, focusing mainly on the language of the Heian and Kamakura periods. Grammar is taught in the first three weeks in parallel with the reading of a representative short text, focusing on the main differences between the Classical language and the modern language.
20 credits - Gender and Identities in East Asia
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This module offers an overview of the study of gender and its connection to social, cultural, political and economic discourses across East Asia. Covering key issues related to the structures and dynamics of gender in East Asia, we learn to situate these dynamics in their historical and cultural context using case studies drawn from across the region.
20 credits - Mass Culture and Digital Society in East Asia
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This module takes a transcultural approach to the study of mass culture and digital society in East Asia, tracing the adoption, adaptation, and innovation of a variety of media over the twentieth and twenty-first century. We will examine how mass culture, from radio and literature to art, entertainment and social media have continuously negotiated the concept of “national” identity across East Asia.
20 credits - Modern Japanese History
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This module will explore key themes in the modern history of Japan from the mid-nineteenth to the late twentieth century, while developing core skills in reading primary sources and historical analysis. Broad themes include identity and nation-building, social and economic change, war and its practical and cultural legacies. Key sub-disciplinary approaches will be based in social and cultural history, with some excursions into other historiographical approaches. It will be delivered through weekly lectures, and seminars structured around developing primary source analysis skills and relating these to appropriate secondary literature.
20 credits - Postwar Japanese Politics
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This module will examine postwar Japanese politics, economy and international relations with a focus on the change and continuity of political organizations and policy-making processes. The module is designed to equip students with analytical skills based on a framework generally applicable to political science so that they will be able to examine political phenomena in general, and particularly in relation to Japan, from a range of theoretical perspectives. Students will work together in a group presentation based on a case study and take a formal exam that will assess their ability to conduct critical analysis and make a coherent argument.
20 credits
Your third year will be spend studying in Japan at one of our many partner institutions where you will take intensve Japanese language classes and be immersed in Japanese culture and society.
Core module:
- Japanese Year Abroad
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During the Japan Year Abroad students take the intensive Japanese language classes provided by our partner universities with the aim of developing their Japanese competency to approximately level N2 as measured by the Japanese Language Proficiency Test, supplemented by familiarity with the 2136 Chinese characters in general use. In addition, students will have the opportunity to take a wide variety of Japanese Studies subjects, taught in English and Japanese, and take part in a range of structured and informal learning experiences to develop their familiarity with the Japanese social, cultural and physical environments.
120 credits
In your final year you will focus on developing your research skills through specially designed research focused modules.
In your language classes you will be introduced to advanced topics such as translation, interpretation and workplace language skills such as CV writing and presenting.
Core modules:
- East Asian Dissertation
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The East Asian dissertation requires that students produce an extended and focused study of a subject of their own choice, within the scope of their degree programme, and allows students to refine and extend their independent research, analytical and writing skills. The unit is delivered through a combination of group meetings in lecture or seminar format and through individual supervision.
40 credits - Japanese Language 5
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This module builds on skills acquired at Levels 1 and 2 and during the year in Japan at upper intermediate to lower advanced level. It is divided into four sections, each one focussing on a key linguistic skill which is demanded of adult foreign users of the language. These skills are: translation in English; reading comprehension of sophisticated non-literary texts; writing in Japanese ¿ with a focus on formal correspondence; and speaking, with a focus on job interviews and presentations. Group work, with students selecting their own materials for study, is a key element of the module, enabling students to develop as independent learners.
20 credits - Japanese Language 6
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This module builds on skills acquired at Levels 1 and 2 and during the year in Japan at upper intermediate to lower advanced level. It is divided into four sections, each one focussing on a key linguistic skill which is demanded of adult foreign users of the language. These skills are: translation in English; reading comprehension of sophisticated non-literary texts; writing in Japanese with a focus on formal correspondence; and speaking, with a focus on job interviews and presentations. Group work, with students selecting their own materials for study, is a key element of the module, enabling students to develop as independent learners.
20 credits
Optional module:
In your final year you will bring together the knowledge you've gained throughout your studies modules in a research project based on a humanities or social sciences based topic. You will take one Researching Japan module and it’s complimentary research project module.
The content of these modules change regularly to ensure they are topical and make the best use of our staff expertise
you can take up to 20 credits in guided modules from across the University.
- Researching Japan 1
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This unit explores some of the key debates and latest empirical developments in a specific field of research currently undertaken by a member of SEAS staff in Japanese Studies. It enables students to understand how research questions are formulated and answered by exploring the member of staff's disciplinary focus, the range of theoretical approaches employed, and the various methodologies available in researching this field.
20 credits - Researching Japan 2
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This unit explores some of the key debates and latest empirical developments in a specific field of research currently undertaken by a member of SEAS staff in Japanese Studies. It enables students to understand how research questions are formulated and answered by exploring the member of staff's disciplinary focus, the range of theoretical approaches employed, and the various methodologies available in researching this field.
20 credits - Japan Research Project 1
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In this module, you will work as part of a small team within a scenario set by a SEAS staff member that relates to his/her field of research as explored in EAS3033. You will answer a research question by choosing an appropriate methodology, allocating specific tasks within your team, organising your time and reflecting on the research process both individually and collectively. Specific projects will include appropriate research training provided by the module organiser and/or 301. At the end of the module you will produce a research output and display it as part of a programme-wide and School-wide event to specialised/non-specialised audiences.
20 credits - Japan Research Project 2
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In this module, you will work as part of a small team within a scenario set by a SEAS staff member that relates to his/her field of research as explored in EAS3033. You will answer a research question by choosing an appropriate methodology, allocating specific tasks within your team, organising your time and reflecting on the research process both individually and collectively. Specific projects will include appropriate research training provided by the module organiser and/or 301. At the end of the module you will produce a research output and display it as part of a programme-wide and School-wide event to specialised/non-specialised audiences.
20 credits
The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it's up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research; funding changes; professional accreditation requirements; student or employer feedback; outcomes of reviews; and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we'll consult and inform students in good time and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption. We are no longer offering unrestricted module choice. If your course included unrestricted modules, your department will provide a list of modules from their own and other subject areas that you can choose from.
Learning and assessment
Learning
You will undertake intensive Japanese language training in small group classes with native speaking tutors and making use of specially designed learning materials. To complement your language learning and ensure you gain a comprehensive understand of the country, you will also learn about Japanese culture and society through, what we call, studies modules.
These modules are taught via lectures, seminars and workshops. You will get the chance to learn about Japanese politics, history, media and popular culture among other topics that complement the current expertise and research interests of our staff.
The School of East Asian Studies has over 50 years’ experience of researching contemporary East Asia and pioneering new methods for teaching East Asian Languages.
SEAS staff, many of whom are fluent in at least one East Asian language, are internationally-renowned specialists in East Asia, and bring their expertise in various fields such as history, culture and politics, to the wide range of courses on offer at SEAS. Right from the start, you'll be working with expert researchers and native speakers, who will help you to reach your potential
Assessment
We use a range of assessment methods during your course. In the language programme you will be given regular homework assignments and take exams at the end of each semester. You will be assessed on the core skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing.
Our assessment methods vary across our studies modules and could include taking exams, developing a portfolio, writing essays, taking part in group projects and presentations.
Programme specification
This tells you the aims and learning outcomes of this course and how these will be achieved and assessed.
Entry requirements
With Access Sheffield, you could qualify for additional consideration or an alternative offer - find out if you're eligible
The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
ABB
The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
BBB
A Levels + additional qualifications | BBB + B in relevant EPQ BBB + B in relevant EPQ
International Baccalaureate | 33 32
BTEC | DDD in a relevant subject DDM in a relevant subject
Scottish Highers | AAABB AABBB
Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels | B + AB B + BB
Access to HE Diploma | 60 credits overall with Distinctions in 30 Level 3 credits and Merits in 15 Level 3 credits 60 credits overall with Distinctions in 24 Level 3 credits and Merits in 21 Level 3 credits
Mature students - explore other routes for mature students
You must demonstrate that your English is good enough for you to successfully complete your course. For this course we require: GCSE English Language at grade 4/C; IELTS grade of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component; or an alternative acceptable English language qualification
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No prior knowledge of Japanese required (up to A Level Japanese acceptable)
We also accept a range of other UK qualifications and other EU/international qualifications.
If you have any questions about entry requirements, please contact the department.
School of East Asian Studies
Our courses are designed to immerse you in the languages and cultures of East Asian countries. You will be taught by native speakers in Chinese, Japanese and Korean in regular small group classes using custom made course material. To enhance your learning, we also have a modern virtual language lab, which enables you to learn using visual and audio aids.
Our courses are based on world-leading research and taught by experts whose work influences policy and informs public debate. Most of our staff publish in their specialist field and many of them have written books for major publishers such as Oxford University Press, Routledge and Macmillan.
Take one of our Chinese, Japanese or Korean studies degrees and spend a year studying at a leading university in your chosen country. Our partners are Nanjing University in China, six high ranking universities in South Korea including Yonsei University in Seoul and more than 25 Japanese universities including Tokyo, Kyoto and Waseda University.
The School of East Asian Studies is located in the Jessop West building, right in the heart of campus and close to the Sheffield University tram stop. You will visit the department to meet with your tutors and gain any support you need. Your lectures, seminars and language classes will take place in various locations across the University of Sheffield campus.
Facilities
To enhance your learning, the School of East Asian Studies has a modern virtual language lab, which enables you to learn using visual and audio aids.
School of East Asian StudiesWhy choose Sheffield?
The University of Sheffield
A Top 100 university 2021
QS World University Rankings
Top 10% of all UK universities
Research Excellence Framework 2014
No 1 Students' Union in the UK
Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2019, 2018, 2017
School of East Asian Studies
National Student Survey 2020
Graduate careers
School of East Asian Studies
Studying China, Japan or Korea prepares you for a career in the world's most dynamic region. There are also many opportunities across Europe for people with skills in Asian languages and cultures.
Our graduates work in government and diplomacy, media and the arts, non-government organisations and international business - in professions as diverse as management consultancy, accountancy, marketing, research, language teaching and translation.
Year abroad
As part of this degree you'll spend a year studying in Japan at one of our partner institutions located across the breadth of the country, from Hokkaido in the snowy north to Okinawa in the tropical south.
There are over twenty possible destinations, including elite public and private universities, as well as prominent regional institutions.
During your year in Japan you'll immerse yourself in this fascinating country. You'll continue to take intensive Japanese language courses as well as choosing from a range of other modules taught in English or Japanese.
Fees and funding
Fees
Additional costs
The annual fee for your course includes a number of items in addition to your tuition. If an item or activity is classed as a compulsory element for your course, it will normally be included in your tuition fee. There are also other costs which you may need to consider.
Funding your study
Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for a bursary, scholarship or loan to help fund your study and enhance your learning experience.
Use our Student Funding Calculator to work out what you’re eligible for.
Visit us
University open days
There are four open days every year, usually in June, July, September and October. You can talk to staff and students, tour the campus and see inside the accommodation.
Taster days
At various times in the year we run online taster sessions to help Year 12 students experience what it is like to study at the University of Sheffield.
Applicant days
If you've received an offer to study with us, we'll invite you to one of our applicant days, which take place between November and April. These applicant days have a strong department focus and give you the chance to really explore student life here, even if you've visited us before.
Campus tours
Campus tours run regularly throughout the year, at 1pm every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
Apply for this course
Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.
How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:
www.ucas.com
Contact us
Telephone: +44 114 222 8400
Email: eastasianstudies-admissions@sheffield.ac.uk
The awarding body for this course is the University of Sheffield.