An introductory course in modern Japanese language. In addition to mastering the basics of grammar, emphasis is placed on active functional communication in the language, as well as reading and listening comprehension. Context-oriented conversation drills are complemented by audio materials. Basic cultural information also presented. The two kana syllabaries and sixty commonly used kanji are introduced. No prerequisite. Followed by Japanese 1102.

Terms offered: 2021 Fall Semester; 2022 Fall Semester; 2023 Fall Semester; 2024 Fall Semester; 2025 Fall Semester

A continuation of the fundamentals of Japanese grammar structures and further acquisition of spoken communication skills, listening comprehension, and proficiency in reading and writing. Introduces an additional ninety kanji.

Terms offered: 2022 Spring Semester; 2023 Spring Semester; 2024 Spring Semester; 2025 Spring Semester

An intermediate course in modern Japanese language, with introduction of advanced grammatical structures, vocabulary, and characters. Continuing emphasis on acquisition of well-balanced language skills based on an understanding of the actual use of the language in the Japanese sociocultural context. Introduces an additional 100 kanji.

Terms offered: 2021 Fall Semester; 2022 Fall Semester; 2023 Fall Semester; 2024 Fall Semester; 2025 Fall Semester

A continuation of Japanese 2203 with the introduction of more advanced grammatical structures, vocabulary, and characters.

Terms offered: 2022 Spring Semester; 2023 Spring Semester; 2024 Spring Semester; 2025 Spring Semester

Building on the fundamentals of Elementary and Intermediate Japanese, students increase their proficiency in both the spoken and written language. A variety of written and audiovisual Japanese language materials (essays, movies, manga, etc.) are used to consolidate and expand mastery of more advanced grammatical structures and vocabulary. Students read or watch relevant materials, discuss in class, and then write and/or present on selected Japan-related topics.

Terms offered: 2021 Fall Semester; 2022 Fall Semester; 2023 Fall Semester; 2024 Fall Semester

A continuation and progression of materials used in Japanese 2205.

Terms offered: 2022 Spring Semester; 2023 Spring Semester; 2024 Spring Semester; 2025 Spring Semester

An advanced course in modern Japanese designed to develop mastery of the spoken and written language. A variety of written and audiovisual Japanese language materials (essays, movies, manga, etc.) are used. This is a project-oriented class and students learn to express complex thoughts and feelings, as well as how to properly conduct oneself in a formal Japanese job interview situation.

Terms offered: 2021 Fall Semester; 2022 Fall Semester; 2023 Fall Semester; 2024 Fall Semester; 2025 Fall Semester

A continuation of Japanese 3307. Continued efforts to develop oral and written fluency in informal and formal situations. Reading of contemporary texts of literature, business, and social topics.

Terms offered: 2023 Spring Semester

An advanced Japanese language seminar where students will engage entirely with original texts and media created for everyday Japanese consumption (such as articles, essays, short stories, films, etc.) for class discussion and presentation. The discussions will be led by students and they will be encouraged to critically engage with the materials and make connections to issues in contemporary Japan. Projects will include a mock interview for which students will learn how to conduct themselves in formal Japanese situations (for example, Japanese workplaces, conferences, etc.). All readings and discussions in Japanese.

Terms offered: 2022 Fall Semester; 2025 Fall Semester