BA in Japanese and Linguistics in Boston United States | Boston University

The Japanese & Linguistics joint major allows students to merge the examination of human language from multiple viewpoints with Japanese language, literature, and cultural studies. In linguistics coursework, students investigate language's formal structures (phonetics, morphology, syntax, and semantics) along with linguistic universals, cross-language variations, sociolinguistic aspects, and historical evolution. Simultaneously, students develop Japanese language competency (reading, writing, speaking, and listening) while cultivating a nuanced understanding of Japan's cultural heritage, literary traditions, artistic forms, and significant texts. The interdisciplinary program particularly emphasizes Japanese linguistics, examining either the language's historical progression or its unique features compared to other languages.

Program Objectives
Graduates completing the Japanese & Linguistics joint major will demonstrate:

Comprehension of core linguistic research questions regarding structural patterns, universals, acquisition, historical changes, variations, and sociolinguistic applications, supported by theoretical foundations in linguistics.
Skills to accurately recognize and articulate linguistic patterns in data sets, developing rigorous analyses through hypothesis formulation, testing, and refinement.
Specialized knowledge in either contemporary Japanese linguistics (phonetics, phonology, or syntax) or the language's historical development.
Advanced Japanese language proficiency across all communication skills, including speaking ability at Intermediate High level or above and recognition of at least 800 kanji characters.
Deep appreciation and critical awareness of Japanese cultural expressions, literary history, artistic conventions, and canonical works.