Australian National University

Bachelor of Arts (Japanese Studies)

Select from a diverse range of majors across the creative arts, humanities, and social sciences, taught by world-class scholars, to create a degree that is expressly yours with the ANU Bachelor of Arts.

You will have the flexibility to engage in hands-on projects, take your studies abroad, or undertake an internship. You will gain valuable analytical and research skills transferable to the global workplace while developing expertise in critical analysis, written and oral communication, and the ability to drive global and local change.

Japanese Studies Major
The Japanese Studies Major is for students wanting to develop a sophisticated and comprehensive understanding of Japan relevant for a diverse range of careers. The Major provides students with nuanced insights into the historical, political and cultural forces that have shaped the Japan of today. Utilizing such insights, students will be able to engage meaningfully with the culture, society and people of Japan while proactively contributing to the enhancement of ties between Japan and Australia. Knowledge of the Japanese language is not required for the Japanese Studies Major, however it is designed to complement the Japanese Language Major. As one of Australia’s key security and trading partners, private and public sector employers actively recruit ANU graduates with detailed knowledge of and experience in Japan. 

At the core of this Major lies an immersive and comprehensive exploration of Japan. ANU has one of the largest concentrations of Japan specialists in Australia, offering students unparalleled access to expertise across a broad range of disciplines. Studying with these experts, students acquire a comprehensive understanding of the historical and contemporary dynamics of Japan while delving into specialized topics such as the historical evolution of Japanese society, culture and politics, the development of Japanese culture and its culture industries, and the contemporary economic and geopolitical issues facing the country.