Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

This programme begins with a foundation year that prepares you for degree-level study by developing core academic skills, introductory language tuition and an understanding of humanities and social sciences research methods. After successful completion you progress to the three-year BA Japanese Studies, where study typically covers both compulsory and option modules in areas such as:

• Japanese language: staged modules in speaking, listening, reading and writing, progressing from elementary through to intermediate/advanced depending on entry and progress. Focuses include grammar, kanji, vocabulary expansion and practical communication.
• Literature and film: study of modern and classical Japanese literature and cinema, including critical approaches and close reading/viewing.
• History and society: modules exploring premodern and modern Japanese history, social change, family and gender, urbanisation and contemporary social issues.
• Politics and international relations: Japan’s postwar politics, foreign policy, regional security and economic diplomacy.
• Business and economics: optional modules on Japan’s business culture, trade, and comparative management for students wishing to combine language skills with commercial knowledge.
• Translation and applied language: practice in translation, interpreting basics and language for specific purposes (e.g. media, tourism, business).
• Independent project/dissertation: a final-year research project allowing you to pursue a topic in depth under academic supervision, which may be language-based or focused on culture, policy or history.

The programme often includes opportunities for short-term exchanges, study visits or a year abroad in Japan to consolidate language competence and cultural understanding; availability varies and is subject to departmental arrangements and individual eligibility.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to demonstrate academic potential and motivation for language study. Typical entry requirements include successful completion of secondary education qualifications equivalent to A-levels or an appropriate international qualification; specific offers vary by applicant background and are confirmed by the university. For applicants without prior Japanese, the foundation year is designed to provide the necessary start; applicants with some prior Japanese study may be considered for direct entry to the degree subject to ability.

International students whose first language is not English must meet the university’s English language requirements; this is commonly shown through recognised tests such as IELTS or equivalent scores accepted by Oxford Brookes. Mature applicants and those with non‑traditional qualifications are encouraged to present a personal statement and references that demonstrate suitability for study.

Career prospects

Graduates of Japanese Studies develop language proficiency and cultural literacy that are attractive to a wide range of employers. Common career paths include:

• International business and trade, particularly roles requiring contact with Japanese companies or markets.
• Translation and interpreting, entry-level roles in language services or progression to professional accreditation with further training.
• Public sector and diplomacy, including roles in government, international organisations and NGOs where regional expertise is valued.
• Education and teaching, such as teaching English abroad, language teaching assistants or further study to qualify as a language teacher.
• Media, publishing, tourism and cultural organisations, where knowledge of Japan and language skills support roles in content, communications and customer-facing services.
• Further study: graduates often progress to postgraduate degrees in areas such as linguistics, translation studies, Asian studies, international relations or business.

Work placements, language immersion opportunities and careers support available through the university help graduates to build employability and practical experience.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes offers a supportive environment for language study within a modern university located close to the historic city of Oxford. The Department provides specialist language teaching facilities, including language labs and resources for independent study, and staff with research and teaching expertise in Japanese studies, history and contemporary culture.

The university emphasises practical language acquisition alongside cultural and interdisciplinary approaches, and it promotes opportunities for mobility with partner institutions and study visits in Japan where possible. Students benefit from dedicated academic and careers support, modules that encourage work-related skills, and a wider student community with clubs and societies that foster cross-cultural exchange.

Overall, the programme is suited to students seeking a structured route into Japanese language proficiency and area studies, supported by a foundation year to ensure a strong academic start.