MA in Japanese in Boston United States | University of Massachusetts Amherst

The Master of Arts in Japanese program through East Asian Languages and Cultures has two primary objectives. First, it provides rigorous academic training in Japanese literature, cultural studies, linguistics, and teaching methodologies. Second, it develops advanced language proficiency for professional applications in translation, interpretation, education, media, business, or public service. Our graduates have pursued diverse careers as diplomats, educators at secondary and university levels, language specialists, and more. Admission requires demonstrated proficiency equivalent to four years of university-level Japanese, achievable through undergraduate coursework, immersive experience in Japan, or achieving N2 on the Japanese Language Placement Exam. All enrolled students undergo a language assessment during orientation to determine appropriate course placement. Those not qualifying for Japanese 532 (Media Japanese) or Japanese 536 (Advanced Modern Japanese I) may require additional study time to develop the language skills needed for thesis research using primary sources. (Some students may need to complete preparatory coursework after admission to address specific skill gaps.)