Japanese Studies
Master of Arts

The study programme is consecutive and requires a Bachelor’s degree in Modern Japanese studies or a comparable study programme with sufficient skills in Japanese. Another requirement are very good English language skills. You need a BA-grade of 2,3 or better, and at least 26 CP in the subject of Japanese studies/modules in Japanese studies. In exceptional cases, you can gain the 26 CP later (by passing the modules “Basics in Regional Studies”, “Thematic Module on Society” and “Thematic Module on Culture” within one year).
You need a language education in Japanese comprising 42 SWS or Japanese skills on the level of at least JLPT N2. Since almost all of our courses are mainly in German, sufficient academic German language skills are also a must. The language skills have to be present already at the time of application.nabhängig vom Notendurchschnitt."

In the two-year Master’s programme “Modern Japan”, we offer you an extensive curriculum to deepen your knowledge of Japan and specialize in the field of Modern Japan. Topics such as cultural and social change, Japan in a global context, and media and popular culture are the focus of this programme. Our lecturers will teach you the most important theories and methods that may be used for cultural and social science research. In addition, you will deepen your language skills so that you can express yourself confidently in Japanese in the academic field as well. You may spend some time studying abroad in Japan for up to one year during your Master’s studies in order to pursue a research project for your Master’s thesis.

First, you will improve your Japanese language skills in the first and second semesters through advanced language courses focussing on translation of texts and the discussion of current topics. In addition to an introduction to pre-modern Japanese, you will also learn how to express yourself academically in Japanese.

You will also be given an insight into the necessary theories and methods for researching Modern Japan.

In three thematic modules you will deal with the areas of “Media and Communication”, “Japan in a Global Context” and “Social and Cultural Change”.

The module “Being Academic” allows you to pursue your own academic project.

In the fourth semester you will write your Master’s thesis.

During the two years of your Master’s programme, you will also take elective courses, which you can choose individually to support the focus of your studies and acquire professional qualifications.

Our two-year Master’s programme provides a broad knowledge of contemporary Japanese culture and society, which can be applied in many different ways in numerous professional fields: Science and research, press and publishing, media, journalism, libraries, museums and archives, cultural institutes, adult education, international organisations and business enterprises.

The Master’s programme teaches scientific and analytical thinking, methodical procedures and the ability to work independently on clearly defined topics and questions. Our Master’s programme also focuses on how the results of these self-developed projects can be communicated to an audience in an appealing way. These skills are important key qualifications for any professional career.