Japanese Studies
Why should you consider our Japanese Studies program? There are many reasons. Perhaps you are passionate about Japanese pop culture and want to understand the language and culture behind your favorite anime, games, or music. Maybe you have encountered Japanese religions and philosophies that offer insights to enrich your personal life. You might be motivated by a desire to become a global citizen, someone open to cultures vastly different from your own. Maybe you have career ambitions and want to live and work in Japan or collaborate with Japanese companies in the United States.
Whatever your motivation, this program will open new doors, spark personal growth, and deepen your appreciation for a culture that continues to inspire people around the world.
Come join the program. It just might change your life. Be ready to immerse yourself in something entirely new and unforgettable.
Resources for Students in Mason Japanese Studies Program
GMU Faculty-Led Study Abroad
Each summer, we offer exciting faculty-led study abroad opportunities, such as the Game Studio Tour in Tokyo and Kyoto, designed to enrich your learning about Japan and its culture and industries.
Study Abroad through Partner Universities
You can live and study in Japan during the academic semester or through other program periods. Through our numerous exchange partners, you can study in Japan while transferring credits to GMU Japanese courses. Programs are available in vibrant cities such as Tokyo and Nagoya, or in beautiful natural settings like Akita.
Current exchange partners:
Aoyama Gakuin University (Tokyo): https://www.aoyama.ac.jp/en/?wovn=en
Hosei University (Tokyo): https://www.global.hosei.ac.jp/en/
Sophia University (Tokyo): https://www.sophia.ac.jp/eng/
Tokyo University of Foreign Studies (Tokyo): https://www.tufs.ac.jp/english/
Waseda University (Tokyo): https://www.waseda.jp/top/en/
Akita International University (Akita): https://web.aiu.ac.jp/en/
Nagoya University of Foreign Studies (Nagoya): https://www-e.nufs.ac.jp/
Internships
GMU students can also apply for internship opportunities in Japan. Visit the following website to explore currently available positions.
https://masonabroad.gmu.edu/index.cfm?FuseAction=Programs.ListAll
Japanese Conversation Table
Each week, a faculty member hosts a Japanese conversation table. Students from all levels of Japanese language study come together to practice speaking, chat with fellow students, and build friendships.
Student Organization
Our Japanese Studies program supports the GMU Japanese Student Association, where students meet regularly to share their interests in Japanese language and culture. It’s a great opportunity to connect with others and find a community while studying at GMU.
Instagram: @gmujsa, Twitter: @gmujsa
Facebook: GMU Japanese Student Association
Resources Beyond Mason Japanese Studies Program
Sakura Matsuri: Japanese street Festival
The Japan Exchange and Teaching Program (JET)
Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT)
Universities Affiliated with Mason
Akita International University https://www.aiu.ac.jp/
Soka University https://www.soka.ac.jp/en/
Sophia University http://www.sophia.ac.jp/eng