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Learning Japanese opens doors to global career prospects, particularly in international business. Tennessee offers significant advantages for Japanese speakers, with 151 Japanese companies operating in the state that employ over 38,000 residents and represent $9 billion in capital investments. Japanese culture, spanning both traditional and contemporary forms, has gained worldwide influence. By studying Japanese, you gain firsthand exposure to cultural treasures like tea ceremonies, calligraphy, Zen gardens, architecture, cinema, fashion, cuisine, anime, and literature. This knowledge not only enhances personal growth but also creates professional opportunities. The University of Memphis stands as the sole mid-south institution providing a Japanese major.
The Department of World Languages and Literatures teaches multiple languages including Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Latin, Portuguese, Russian, and Spanish. Thirty dedicated faculty members conduct research, teach, and serve the academic community.
Students can pursue a bachelor's degree in World Languages with specializations in Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, or Spanish. The department also provides coursework in Arabic, Korean, Latin, Portuguese, and Russian. At the graduate level, the Master of Arts in Romance Languages offers concentrations in French or Spanish, covering literature, linguistics, cultural studies, and specialized language applications.
Language study forms a vital part of the University's global mission, fostering cultural understanding. With growing U.S. engagement in international trade, tourism, and collaborative projects, knowledge of foreign cultures and civilizations has become essential for educated individuals in today's interconnected world.