Major in Japanese Studies
Program Overview
Degree Type
Bachelor of Arts
Department Name
Asian Studies
Department Chair Name
Department Assistant Name
What is a Japanese studies degree?
Although a relatively small island nation, Japan wields enormous historical and present-day influence in the global community. This influence must be considered by anyone who seeks a complete understanding of the world around them, especially those pursuing a well-rounded education and postgraduate success in an increasingly diverse society. Graduates holding a Japanese studies degree will be prepared to engage with the people, ideas and issues that shape one of the world’s most dynamic regions.
Why major in Japanese studies at Furman?
The Japanese studies program offers undergraduates a wealth of opportunities for hands-on research, internships and study of the country’s diverse society. You’ll benefit from the small class sizes and mentoring opportunities within a private liberal arts and sciences university environment. You won’t just study a culture, language or religion in our program – you’ll study it all. Take your first steps by contacting admissions or reading more about how to apply.
How will you learn?
The Japanese studies program at Furman will take you beyond the traditional classroom experience. Explore a curriculum infused with a broad range of courses and a strong liberal arts and sciences foundation. Conduct internships and field and text-based research and study abroad in Japan. You’ll also experience Asia without leaving campus in our modern language center, language houses, reading room and authentic Japanese temple.
Careers for Japanese studies majors
Many B.A. holders go on to further studies, including postgraduate programs and training in Asian languages.
The Furman Japanese studies department can help prepare you for a variety of careers in this increasingly vital field, including:
- Journalism
- Diplomacy and international relations
- International business and marketing
- Tourism and cultural exchange
- Translation and interpreting
- Purchasing
- Education
- Customer service
Japanese studies courses: What will you study?
Sample courses include:
Japanese Popular Culture
Realizing Bodymind
What our students say
“The Japanese studies major gave me more than just a degree ¬ it gave me opportunities to immerse myself in language, culture and customs that would prepare me for a future involving Japanese in any situation. Now, I'm working at a Japanese company based in the U.S., and I can feel the passion and knowledge that started from my time as a Japanese Studies major grow daily. There isn't another major at Furman I'd rather have chosen.” – Nicole Hartley ’21
Our faculty
Your academic advisor will help you explore your passions, define your interests and achieve your goals. You’ll tap into a widespread network of community and alumni mentors to help you on your individual educational path – and to the opportunities at the end of it. Furman’s Asian studies faculty represents decades of study and field expertise in multiple academic departments.
FAQ
The Furman Asian studies department can help prepare you for a variety of careers in this increasingly vital field, including journalism, customer service, translating and interpreting, purchasing, education, tourism and cultural exchange, international business and marketing, and diplomacy. Many B.A. recipients go on to further studies, including postgraduate programs and training in Asian languages.
The average annual pay for graduates with an undergraduate degree in Asian studies is $57,299, according to ZipRecruiter. While salaries can reach as high as $121,000, the majority of majors earn between $38,500 and $66,500, with top earners making $94,000 annually.
Furman’s Japanese studies B.A. program is typically a four-year program.