Develop your understanding of Japan
Gain in-depth understanding of key aspects of Japanese culture and society and choose courses on a range of contemporary and historical topics under the guidance of globally leading experts of Japan.
This programme option is directed at students who want to develop their competence and deepen their understanding of Japan by building on the language and other skills acquired in their bachelor studies.
Students are engaged through active participation in the form of presentations and discussions. You are trained in academic skills relevant to Japanese Studies and work life in general.
Refine your academic skills
During the first year, you receive training in relevant research methodologies for the study of Japan: ethnographic research methods, text-based historical research, and literature and translation studies. You also develop your Master's thesis plan and acquire relevant digital skills. In addition, you will explore academic literature relevant to your thesis and choose two elective courses on selected topics in the study of Japanese and East Asian culture, religion, society, and politics.
In your third semester, you can choose between three programme options: a study abroad at one of Japan's leading universities, an internship in an organization, business, or foreign affairs office in Japan; or a combination of data collection with training in communicating research results to a broader audience.
Altogether the programme will equip you with the skills necessary to understand an area of crucial importance. To that end, you will be trained in the use of relevant theories and methodologies in the field of contemporary Japanese Studies. Additionally, the program emphasizes the active use of regional languages, thereby enhancing your language skills.
Specialize in a field of your choice
The work on the master's thesis is a central part of the study programme, where you receive guidance from a specialist within this field. You will select the topic of your thesis during the first semester and dedicate the fourth and final semester exclusively to the thesis work.
The master's thesis is an independent, self-chosen research project designed to demonstrate your knowledge of the research field