1. Handbook
  2. Diploma in Languages
  3. Specialisation (Formal)
  4. Japanese Studies

Japanese Studies

Diploma in LanguagesSpecialisation (formal)Year: 2023

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Overview

The Japanese Studies program at the Asia Institute is one of the largest Japanese programs in Australia. The language subjects (taught at a range of levels, from beginner to advanced) are designed to maximize acquisition of the language and to develop communication skills in various types of texts, interactional contexts and strategic aspects of meaning making. The curriculum also allows students to develop a broad understanding of cultural, social and historical aspects of Japan. Our language and culture integrated curriculum helps students understand the complexity and diversity of the society, and challenge stereotypes. Teaching staff create a meeting place where students from a variety of cultural backgrounds can explore intercultural language activities to promote intercultural as well as communicative competence.

The Diploma in Languages (Japanese Studies) enables students to gain a diploma in language study while completing an undergraduate degree at the University of Melbourne.

Diploma graduates with the equivalent of a BA language major must have completed a BA degree to be eligible to apply for the BA (Honours), otherwise they may apply to enter the postgraduate diploma.

Japanese language subjects are organised in a progressive sequence (of units) from Japanese 1 through to Japanese 8. Entry and exit points are determined by the student’s background in the language, placement testing, prerequisites, or at the discretion of the Japanese Studies program. Students normally progress through the subjects in consecutive order. Mid-year entry is also available subject to approval from the convenor of the Japanese Studies program.

Intended learning outcomes

Students who complete this diploma will:

  • Gain effective oral and written communication skills in Japanese, and an in-depth knowledge of Japanese language, culture and society, relative to their entry level, and develop a capacity to combine knowledge of the Japanese language with one or more disciplines through critical research inquiry;
  • Gain knowledge of the social and cultural diversity of Japan and develop the skills to work with people from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds;
  • Gain the ability to set goals and manage time and priorities and work effectively both independently and in groups.

Last updated: 3 May 2024