Develop your understanding of Japan
Gain in-depth understanding of key aspects of Japanese culture and society and choose courses on a range of contemporary and historical topics under the guidance of globally leading experts of Japan.
This programme option is directed at students who want to develop their competence and deepen their understanding of Japan by building on the language and other skills acquired in their bachelor studies.
Students are engaged through active participation in the form of presentations and discussions. You are trained in academic skills relevant to Japanese Studies and work life in general.
Refine your academic skills
During the first year, you receive training in relevant research methodologies for the study of Japan: ethnographic research methods, text-based historical research, and literature and translation studies. You also develop your Master's thesis plan and acquire relevant digital skills. In addition, you will explore academic literature relevant to your thesis and choose two elective courses on selected topics in the study of Japanese and East Asian culture, religion, society, and politics.
In your third semester, you can choose between three programme options: a study abroad at one of Japan's leading universities, an internship in an organization, business, or foreign affairs office in Japan; or a combination of data collection with training in communicating research results to a broader audience.
Altogether the programme will equip you with the skills necessary to understand an area of crucial importance. To that end, you will be trained in the use of relevant theories and methodologies in the field of contemporary Japanese Studies. Additionally, the program emphasizes the active use of regional languages, thereby enhancing your language skills.
Specialize in a field of your choice
The work on the master's thesis is a central part of the study programme, where you receive guidance from a specialist within this field. You will select the topic of your thesis during the first semester and dedicate the fourth and final semester exclusively to the thesis work.
The master's thesis is an independent, self-chosen research project designed to demonstrate your knowledge of the research field and contribute to the academic literature. Through this process, you will develop your analytical skills and learn to formulate and address a research question. Additionally, throughout the writing process, you will gain valuable experience in giving and receiving feedback from your peers. Both in the coursework and in your independent research for the thesis, you apply your oral and written Japanese language skills and develop them further.
Engage in Student life activities
As a student in the master’s programme, you will be a part of a smaller group of students and through the coursework and seminars, you become a tight-knit group. Throughout the programme, you will engage in discussions, collaborate on teaching activities, and peer-review each other's work. In the first semester, you will participate in an intensive two-day seminar, where you will get to know each other and explore your specific academic interests.
You are encouraged to participate in events organized by the student association, including the end-of-semester parties held for all students.
Additionally, the department provides a reading room exclusively for master's students, offering a space where you can collaborate and engage with your peers.
Pursue a career focused on global issues
Japanese Studies qualifies you for positions that require advanced language and cultural knowledge in this region. This may be within public administration, international businesses, or humanitarian organisations.
Previous graduates have found employment in teaching, cultural and consultancy services, or in public service, embassies, and consulates. Some have developed careers in Japan, while others work in various sectors in Norway.
Furthermore, you qualify for advanced research at the doctoral level in Japanese studies and other humanities disciplines.
Expand your expertise with an Honours Certificate
Do you seek additional academic challenges? As a student at the University of Oslo, you have the opportunity to supplement your master's degree with an Honours Certificate. The certificate accounts for 20 credits, which you take in addition to other courses in your master's degree. This is a unique opportunity to work interdisciplinarily, build networks, and gain new perspectives on your field of study.