Japanese

The best way to understand a culture directly is through its language. Studying Japanese opens the door to learning firsthand about Japanese society through language, literature, culture, and civilization.

Western’s Modern and Classical Languages Department trains in two areas: language structure and literary analysis. Language structure is taught both holistically and analytically. Holistic language learning is facilitated by modern methods and multimedia technology, as well as study abroad opportunities. Analytical instruction of language is taught through a full range of language skills courses, as well as a significant number of linguistics courses. Literary analysis is an essential component to the curriculum, and the department provides instruction in history and culture, as well as literary theory. 

Studying Japanese with a Teaching Endorsement imparts skills to future foreign language teachers so that they may similarly enable high school students to begin the acquisition of foreign languages.

The BA in Japanese leads to a BA degree without teacher certification. In order to receive a recommendation for state of Washington certification, students must complete the professional teacher certification program. Please see the Department of Secondary Education for program admission, completion, and teacher certification requirements.

Western’s Modern and Classical Languages Department is part of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. In order to receive a recommendation for state of Washington certification, students must complete the teacher certification program offered by the Department of Secondary Education.

Students in the Modern and Classical Languages Department are encouraged to study abroad in direct or exchange programs. 

• Interpreter
• Foreign Correspondent
• Foreign Service Officer
• FBI Agent
• Educator
• Foreign Diplomat
• Travel Writer
• Communication Specialist