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B-A-HONS in Japanese Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University
Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is Japanese Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University Delhi?
This Japanese Studies program at Jawaharlal Nehru University focuses on developing comprehensive linguistic proficiency alongside a deep understanding of Japanese culture, history, politics, and economy. It is highly relevant given India''''s growing strategic and economic ties with Japan, with numerous Japanese companies operating in India and increasing bilateral cooperation across various sectors. The program''''s interdisciplinary approach and emphasis on critical language acquisition differentiate it, catering to the significant demand for Japan specialists in the Indian market.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from 10+2 seeking entry into careers requiring advanced Japanese language and cultural expertise. It also suits individuals interested in international relations, trade, tourism, and academics focused on East Asian studies. Aspiring diplomats, researchers, and professionals looking to work with Japanese multinational corporations, either in India or abroad, will find this program particularly beneficial. A keen interest in global affairs and language learning is a prerequisite.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths in fields like diplomacy, international business, translation, interpretation, and academic research. Entry-level salaries in India for Japanese language specialists typically range from INR 4-7 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning significantly more (INR 10-25 lakhs+). Growth trajectories often lead to managerial roles in MNCs, policy advising, or specialized roles in bilateral projects, aligning with certifications like the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) at N2/N1 levels.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Immersive Language Practice- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate 2-3 hours daily to self-study of Japanese, focusing on Hiragana, Katakana, and basic Kanji. Utilize apps like Duolingo, Memrise, and watch basic Japanese anime or dramas with subtitles to train your ear and reinforce vocabulary. This early immersion will build a strong linguistic foundation crucial for advanced studies and accelerate proficiency.
Tools & Resources
Duolingo, Memrise, Beginner Japanese anime/dramas
Career Connection
Strong linguistic fundamentals are the bedrock for any career involving Japanese, enabling quicker professional development.
Active Classroom Participation & Peer Learning- (Semester 1-2)
Engage actively in all language classes, ask questions, and practice speaking with peers outside of class. Form study groups to review grammar, practice dialogues, and quiz each other on new vocabulary. Peer feedback is invaluable for improving pronunciation and conversational confidence, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
Tools & Resources
Study groups, Class discussions, Language exchange partners
Career Connection
Enhanced communication skills and confidence are directly transferable to professional settings, aiding networking and presentations.
Cultural Immersion through Resources- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond language, actively explore Japanese culture through documentaries, books, and online resources provided by the Japan Foundation. Understanding the cultural context behind the language enhances learning and provides a holistic perspective essential for later studies in Japanese society, literature, and politics.
Tools & Resources
Japan Foundation resources, Documentaries, Books on Japanese culture
Career Connection
Cultural sensitivity and knowledge are vital for effective cross-cultural communication, crucial in international business and diplomacy.
Intermediate Stage
Targeted JLPT Preparation- (Semester 3-5)
Begin structured preparation for the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) N3/N2 levels. Utilize official JLPT study guides, practice tests, and specialized online platforms like Nihongo-Ichiban and JLPT Sensei. Achieving these certifications demonstrates a tangible skill level highly valued by potential employers in India.
Tools & Resources
Official JLPT study guides, Nihongo-Ichiban, JLPT Sensei
Career Connection
JLPT certifications are a universal benchmark, significantly boosting employability for roles requiring Japanese language proficiency.
Seek Internship and Exchange Opportunities- (Semester 3-5)
Actively look for summer internships with Japanese companies in India or cultural organizations. Explore university-affiliated exchange programs to Japan if available. Practical exposure provides invaluable experience in using Japanese in a professional setting and understanding corporate culture, significantly boosting career prospects.
Tools & Resources
JNU''''s career services, Embassy of Japan in India, Japan Foundation
Career Connection
Internships offer real-world experience, build professional networks, and often lead to full-time employment opportunities.
Interdisciplinary Reading & Research- (Semester 3-5)
Supplement core language studies with readings on Japanese current affairs, history, and economy from diverse sources, such as The Japan Times and academic journals. Begin small research projects or essays on topics of interest, developing analytical skills and a deeper contextual understanding, crucial for roles in diplomacy or international business.
Tools & Resources
The Japan Times, Academic databases, JSTOR
Career Connection
Analytical skills and a broad understanding of Japan are essential for roles in research, policy analysis, and international business strategy.
Advanced Stage
Specialized Language & Professional Skills- (Semester 6-8)
Focus on developing specialized Japanese language skills relevant to your career aspirations, such as business Japanese, technical Japanese, or translation/interpretation techniques. Practice formal presentations, negotiation dialogues, and professional writing. This specialization enhances employability in specific industry sectors within India.
Tools & Resources
Business Japanese textbooks, Specialized vocabulary lists, Role-playing exercises
Career Connection
Targeted language skills make graduates highly sought after for specific roles in sectors like automotive, IT, or diplomacy.
Intensive Placement Preparation & Networking- (Semester 6-8)
Attend career workshops, mock interviews, and resume-building sessions offered by the university. Network actively with alumni, industry professionals, and representatives from Japanese MNCs through career fairs and online platforms like LinkedIn. Strong networking often leads to valuable job opportunities and mentorship.
Tools & Resources
JNU placement cell, LinkedIn, Industry-specific career fairs
Career Connection
Effective placement preparation and networking are critical for securing desirable job offers upon graduation.
Dissertation/Project & Research Publication- (Semester 6-8)
Dedicate significant effort to your B.A. Project/Dissertation, conducting thorough research and crafting a well-argued paper. Consider submitting your research findings to undergraduate research conferences or university journals. A strong final project and potential publication showcase research capabilities and critical thinking, appealing to both academic and industry employers.
Tools & Resources
JNU Library resources, Academic writing guides, Research mentors
Career Connection
A robust dissertation demonstrates advanced research and analytical abilities, opening doors to higher studies, research roles, or strategic positions.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 or equivalent with minimum 45% marks from a recognized Board, and passing the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) UG for admission to JNU for the B.A. (Hons.) Foreign Languages program.
Duration: 8 semesters (4 years)
Credits: 160 Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FLJ 101 | Elementary Japanese I | Core | 4 | Japanese writing systems (Hiragana, Katakana, basic Kanji), Basic greetings and self-introduction, Simple sentence structures with particles, Daily life vocabulary, Cultural notes on basic interactions |
| FLJ 102 | Oral Communication Skills in Japanese I | Core | 2 | Listening comprehension of simple dialogues, Pronunciation practice and intonation, Basic conversational phrases, Role-playing everyday situations, Responding to simple questions |
| FLE 103 | Compulsory English | Core | 4 | Grammar and usage for academic writing, Reading comprehension strategies, Paragraph and essay writing, Basic communication skills, Analysis of selected English texts |
| FLS 104 | India and the World | Core | 4 | Indian history and cultural heritage, Indian political system and governance, Major contemporary global issues, India''''s foreign policy principles, Role of India in international relations |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FLJ 201 | Elementary Japanese II | Core | 4 | Advanced particles and verb conjugations (Te-form), Transitive and intransitive verbs, Giving and receiving (Ageru, Kureru, Morau), Adjectives and adverbs, Basic comparison and causative forms |
| FLJ 202 | Oral Communication Skills in Japanese II | Core | 2 | Conversational fluency in daily situations, Expressing personal opinions and desires, Describing past and future events, Understanding cultural nuances in speech, Participating in basic group discussions |
| FLS 203 | Media and Society | Core | 4 | Role of media in shaping public opinion, Types of media (print, electronic, digital), Media ethics and social responsibility, Impact of social media on society, Critical analysis of media content |
| FLS 204 | Introduction to Logic and Philosophy | Core | 4 | Basic concepts of formal logic, Deductive and inductive reasoning, Major branches of philosophy, Overview of Indian philosophical traditions, Introduction to prominent Western philosophical ideas |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FLJ 301 | Intermediate Japanese I | Core | 4 | Complex sentence structures (relative clauses), Conditional forms (tara, ba, nara), Volitional and passive voice expressions, Introduction to honourifics and humble language, Reading short narratives and articles |
| FLJ 302 | Listening Comprehension and Translation Japanese I | Core | 2 | Listening to authentic Japanese materials (news, interviews), Note-taking and summarizing spoken content, Simple translation (Japanese to English), Simple translation (English to Japanese), Understanding context and tone in spoken Japanese |
| FLJ 303 | Introduction to Japanese Culture and Society | Core | 4 | Geography and historical overview of Japan, Family structure and social norms, Traditional arts (tea ceremony, ikebana), Festivals and annual events, Contemporary Japanese social issues |
| FLS 304 | Compulsory English II | Core | 4 | Advanced writing skills and style, Argumentative and persuasive essays, Introduction to research methodology, Effective presentation skills, Literary analysis of advanced texts |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FLJ 401 | Intermediate Japanese II | Core | 4 | Advanced grammatical patterns and sentence connectors, Indirect speech and reported thoughts, Causative passive forms, Further practice of polite and honorific expressions, Reading and analyzing authentic texts (essays, stories) |
| FLJ 402 | Listening Comprehension and Translation Japanese II | Core | 2 | Advanced listening to lectures and discussions, Consecutive and simultaneous translation basics, Sight translation practice, Interpreting specialized vocabulary and terminology, Translating cultural concepts |
| FLJ 403 | Japanese Literature in Translation I | Core | 4 | Introduction to classical Japanese literature (Tale of Genji), Major works of modern Japanese literature, Key authors and literary movements, Cultural context and themes in literature, Analysis of translated excerpts |
| FLS 404 | Science and Society | Core | 4 | Historical development of science and technology, Scientific method and critical thinking, Ethical considerations in scientific research, Societal impact of technological advancements, Science policy and public engagement |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FLJ 501 | Advanced Japanese I | Core | 4 | Reading Japanese newspapers and magazines, Analyzing academic texts and reports, Advanced Kanji recognition and usage, Fundamentals of business Japanese, Formal written communication |
| FLJ 502 | Oral and Written Expression Japanese I | Core | 2 | Public speaking and structured presentations, Participating in formal debates, Writing reports and summaries in Japanese, Composing essays on complex topics, Creative writing exercises |
| FLJ 503 | Japanese Politics and Economy | Core | 4 | Post-war political developments in Japan, Japanese economic growth model and structure, Role of Zaibatsu and Keiretsu, Current political landscape and governance, Japan''''s international economic relations |
| FLS 504 | International Relations | Core | 4 | Theories and concepts of international relations, Major state and non-state actors in IR, Conflict resolution and peace studies, Role of international organizations, Diplomacy and global governance |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FLJ 601 | Advanced Japanese II | Core | 4 | Specialized vocabulary for various fields, In-depth analysis of advanced grammatical structures, Reading comprehension of complex official documents, Understanding research articles and academic papers, Practicing nuances of formal and informal speech |
| FLJ 602 | Oral and Written Expression Japanese II | Core | 2 | Delivering advanced presentations, Engaging in critical discussions and debates, Writing formal letters and business correspondence, Composing analytical and argumentative essays, Developing advanced academic writing skills |
| FLJ 603 | Japanese Literature in Translation II | Core | 4 | Contemporary Japanese authors and works, Post-war literary trends and themes, Manga and Anime as cultural and literary forms, Exploration of gender and identity in literature, Introduction to Japanese literary theory |
| FLS 604 | Environmental Studies | Core | 4 | Ecosystems, biodiversity, and conservation, Major environmental pollution types and control, Global climate change and its impacts, Principles of sustainable development, Environmental policies and movements |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FLJ 701 | Advanced Japanese III | Core | 4 | Readings in specialized texts (e.g., economy, technology), Conducting interviews and data collection in Japanese, Participating in academic and professional discussions, Mastering complex Kanji and nuanced vocabulary, Advanced interpretation and summarization skills |
| FLJ 702 | Japanese History and Philosophy | Core | 4 | Ancient and medieval periods of Japanese history, The Meiji Restoration and its impact, Modernization and post-war Japan, Zen Buddhism and its influence, Shintoism and traditional Japanese thought, Introduction to key Japanese philosophical concepts |
| FLJ 703 | Japanese Aesthetics and Performing Arts | Core | 4 | Traditional Japanese aesthetics (Wabi-sabi, mono no aware), Tea ceremony (chado) and flower arrangement (ikebana), Kabuki and Noh theatre forms, Bunraku puppet theatre, Contemporary Japanese performing arts and cinema |
| FLJ 704 | Elective I | Elective | 4 | Japanese Business Communication, Japanese Cinema and Society, History of Japanese Art, Japanese Language Teaching Methodology, Translation Theory and Practice |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FLJ 801 | Advanced Japanese IV | Core | 4 | Translation of highly specialized documents, Interpreting complex legal or technical content, Critical reading of Japanese academic research, Achieving fluent and culturally appropriate spoken Japanese, Cross-cultural communication strategies |
| FLJ 802 | Japanese Society and Contemporary Issues | Core | 4 | Demographic challenges (aging, declining birthrate), Gender issues and women''''s roles in society, Youth culture and subcultures, Environmental challenges and policies in Japan, Japan''''s role in global governance and regional conflicts |
| FLJ 803 | Elective II | Elective | 4 | Modern Japanese Thinkers, Japan and India: Bilateral Relations, Japanese Pop Culture (Anime, Manga, Music), Sociolinguistics of Japanese, Japanese Diaspora Studies |
| FLJ 804 | B.A. Project/Dissertation | Project | 4 | Formulating research questions and objectives, Research methodology and data collection, Academic writing and thesis structuring, Independent research on a chosen Japanese Studies topic, Presentation and defense of research findings |
