Thinking About Postgraduate Study? Details on MA Japanese Studies Programme at SOAS
Thinking About Postgraduate Study? Here's Why the MA Japanese Studies Programme at SOAS Could Be for You!
By Christopher Gerteis
Hey everyone! If you're in your final year of undergrad and considering postgraduate options, especially if you're fascinated by Japan, I wanted to share some insights about the MA Japanese Studies programme at SOAS University of London. Whether you're already studying Japanese or have a broader interest in Japan, this programme offers something unique. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide if it’s the right fit for you.
What is the MA Japanese Studies Programme?
This is a one-year (full-time) or two-year (part-time) master's programme designed for students who want to explore Japan in depth. It’s an interdisciplinary course that combines cultural, historical, political, and linguistic approaches to Japanese studies. Whether your focus is literature, modern history, or even international relations, you’ll have the flexibility to tailor the course to your interests.
New Option: Japanese Studies with Intensive Language
For those who want to fully immerse themselves in Japanese language and culture, SOAS offers the MA Japanese Studies and Intensive Language programme. This two-year degree combines the interdisciplinary approach of Japanese Studies with intensive language training.
What’s the Difference?
In addition to cultural, historical, and political modules, this programme includes a summer of intensive language study in Hokkaido, Japan, as part of a year abroad. This immersive experience allows you to significantly improve your Japanese proficiency while living and studying in one of Japan's most unique regions.
Why Hokkaido?
Hokkaido provides a serene yet culturally vibrant environment for language learners. You'll benefit from focused Japanese language training in a location known for its natural beauty and distinctive culture, giving you a chance to explore another side of Japan beyond its urban centers.
Who Should Consider This?
If you're aiming for a career where Japanese fluency is essential—such as diplomacy, international business, or translation—this programme is an excellent option.
Learn more about this option here
Why Choose SOAS for Japanese Studies?
World-Class Expertise: SOAS is a leading institution for the study of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. You’ll learn from some of the best scholars in the field of Japanese studies.
Language Learning Opportunities: You can study Japanese at an advanced level or start from scratch if you're a beginner.
Interdisciplinary Approach: The programme offers modules across history, politics, literature, and anthropology. You can truly customize your learning experience.
Unique International Experience: For students in the Intensive Language programme, the summer in Hokkaido provides an invaluable opportunity to live and study in Japan, enhancing both your language skills and cultural knowledge.
Location Matters: SOAS is based in central London, surrounded by great libraries (e.g., the British Library), cultural institutions, and a vibrant student community.
Who is this Programme For?
The MA Japanese Studies and the Intensive Language option are ideal if you:
Scholarship Opportunities:
SOAS offers several scholarships to help support your studies:
Sasakawa Postgraduate Studentship:
Amount: £15,000
Open to students focusing on Japan-related topics.
Application deadline: 12 March 2025.
Learn more here
SOAS Master's Scholarships (International):
Amount: £5,000
Open to international students with strong academic performance.
Learn more here
More Scholarships
Visit the SOAS Scholarships Page for a comprehensive list of funding opportunities
How to Prepare for the Programme:
Think About Your Research Interests: The dissertation is a big part of the programme, so it helps to start thinking now about topics that excite you.
Strengthen Your Academic Skills: Postgraduate study is more independent than undergrad, so refining your research and writing skills is key.
Brush Up on Japanese Language (if applicable): If you’re planning to study the language, a refresher before starting can make your transition smoother.
How to Apply:
If this sounds interesting, check out the programme pages for more information:
MA Japanese Studies
MA Japanese Studies and Intensive Language
Ready to apply? Visit our application portal here to get started!
You can also attend SOAS open days to meet the lecturers and current students. If you have any specific questions, feel free to ask—I’m happy to share more tips or insights about postgraduate life at SOAS!
Good luck with your decision-making process! 😊
--
Dr Christopher Gerteis
www.christophergerteis.net
By Christopher Gerteis
Hey everyone! If you're in your final year of undergrad and considering postgraduate options, especially if you're fascinated by Japan, I wanted to share some insights about the MA Japanese Studies programme at SOAS University of London. Whether you're already studying Japanese or have a broader interest in Japan, this programme offers something unique. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide if it’s the right fit for you.
What is the MA Japanese Studies Programme?
This is a one-year (full-time) or two-year (part-time) master's programme designed for students who want to explore Japan in depth. It’s an interdisciplinary course that combines cultural, historical, political, and linguistic approaches to Japanese studies. Whether your focus is literature, modern history, or even international relations, you’ll have the flexibility to tailor the course to your interests.
New Option: Japanese Studies with Intensive Language
For those who want to fully immerse themselves in Japanese language and culture, SOAS offers the MA Japanese Studies and Intensive Language programme. This two-year degree combines the interdisciplinary approach of Japanese Studies with intensive language training.
What’s the Difference?
In addition to cultural, historical, and political modules, this programme includes a summer of intensive language study in Hokkaido, Japan, as part of a year abroad. This immersive experience allows you to significantly improve your Japanese proficiency while living and studying in one of Japan's most unique regions.
Why Hokkaido?
Hokkaido provides a serene yet culturally vibrant environment for language learners. You'll benefit from focused Japanese language training in a location known for its natural beauty and distinctive culture, giving you a chance to explore another side of Japan beyond its urban centers.
Who Should Consider This?
If you're aiming for a career where Japanese fluency is essential—such as diplomacy, international business, or translation—this programme is an excellent option.
Learn more about this option here
Why Choose SOAS for Japanese Studies?
World-Class Expertise: SOAS is a leading institution for the study of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. You’ll learn from some of the best scholars in the field of Japanese studies.
Language Learning Opportunities: You can study Japanese at an advanced level or start from scratch if you're a beginner.
Interdisciplinary Approach: The programme offers modules across history, politics, literature, and anthropology. You can truly customize your learning experience.
Unique International Experience: For students in the Intensive Language programme, the summer in Hokkaido provides an invaluable opportunity to live and study in Japan, enhancing both your language skills and cultural knowledge.
Location Matters: SOAS is based in central London, surrounded by great libraries (e.g., the British Library), cultural institutions, and a vibrant student community.
Who is this Programme For?
The MA Japanese Studies and the Intensive Language option are ideal if you:
1.
Already have some background in Japanese studies or language (but beginners are welcome too!).
2.
Want to deepen your understanding of Japanese society, culture, and history.
3.
Are considering careers in academia, international relations, journalism, cultural heritage, or other fields connected to Japan.
4.
Want to combine advanced academic study with in-depth language immersion through a year abroad and a summer in Hokkaido.
Scholarship Opportunities:
SOAS offers several scholarships to help support your studies:
Sasakawa Postgraduate Studentship:
Amount: £15,000
Open to students focusing on Japan-related topics.
Application deadline: 12 March 2025.
Learn more here
SOAS Master's Scholarships (International):
Amount: £5,000
Open to international students with strong academic performance.
Learn more here
More Scholarships
Visit the SOAS Scholarships Page for a comprehensive list of funding opportunities
How to Prepare for the Programme:
Think About Your Research Interests: The dissertation is a big part of the programme, so it helps to start thinking now about topics that excite you.
Strengthen Your Academic Skills: Postgraduate study is more independent than undergrad, so refining your research and writing skills is key.
Brush Up on Japanese Language (if applicable): If you’re planning to study the language, a refresher before starting can make your transition smoother.
How to Apply:
If this sounds interesting, check out the programme pages for more information:
MA Japanese Studies
MA Japanese Studies and Intensive Language
Ready to apply? Visit our application portal here to get started!
You can also attend SOAS open days to meet the lecturers and current students. If you have any specific questions, feel free to ask—I’m happy to share more tips or insights about postgraduate life at SOAS!
Good luck with your decision-making process! 😊
--
Dr Christopher Gerteis
www.christophergerteis.net
(edited 9 months ago)
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