Minor in Japanese

Japanese
Curriculum & Requirements
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About

Japanese is in high demand across industries like business, technology, education, and entertainment. At EWU, you won’t just study the language—you’ll use it.

Through real conversations with native speakers from our Asia University America Program (AUAP), you’ll apply what you learn in class to authentic cultural exchanges and build confidence using Japanese in everyday and professional settings.

This minor pairs especially well with majors in International Affairs, Business, and Education, and prepares you for careers in global communication, teaching English abroad, or working with international partners.  As the region’s polytechnic, EWU believes in learning by doing. Our Japanese program reflects that with daily opportunities to apply your skills in real-life settings.

Why Study Japanese at the Region's Polytechnic?

Get a hands-on education, real-world experience, and personalized support from faculty so you can launch your career with confidence.

Real Conversations with Native Japanese Speakers

At EWU, Japanese language students build real-world skills by practicing with native speakers from our Tokyo-based AUAP program—turning classroom learning into confident conversation.

Build Your Resumé

Learn how to speak, read and write in Japanese. Knowing a second language will boost your hiring potential.

Study Abroad in Japan

Expand your language skills and cultural understanding through study abroad opportunities at Asia University, Ibaraki University, or Kobe City University—immersive programs that put your classroom learning into real-world practice.

Learning That Goes Both Ways

Through AUAP, EWU students and Japanese exchange students learn together—sharing language, culture, and real-world experiences that build confidence and lasting connections.

A Campus Full of Culture

Don’t just study Japanese, immerse yourself in cultural nights, shared meals, and real connections that bring Japanese traditions to life. It’s like study abroad, here on campus.

What You'll Learn

The following information comes from the official EWU catalog, which outlines all degree requirements and serves as the guide to earning a degree. Courses are designed to provide a well-rounded and versatile degree, covering a wide range of subject areas.

Japanese Minor

Grade Requirements: the minimum cumulative GPA for this program is ≥2.7.

Required Courses
JAPN 201INTERMEDIATE JAPANESE AND CULTURE5
JAPN 202INTERMEDIATE JAPANESE AND CULTURE5
JAPN 203INTERMEDIATE JAPANESE AND CULTURE5
Elective–choose a JAPN course above the 300 level.2
Total Credits17

Career Possibilities

  • International Sales Representative
  • Import/Export Coordinator
  • Global Business Analyst
  • Logistics Specialist
  • Foreign Market Researcher
  • Procurement Specialist
  • International Account Manager
  • Business Development Coordinator

  • English as a Second Language (ESL) Instructor (in Japan or internationally)
  • Study Abroad Coordinator
  • Academic Advisor
  • International Student Recruiter
  • Language Tutor
  • Curriculum Developer (Japanese language programs)

  • Foreign Service Officer
  • Cultural Affairs Specialist
  • Intelligence Analyst
  • Immigration Officer
  • Customs and Border Protection Officer
  • International Relations Specialist
  • Trade Compliance Analyst

  • Travel Consultant
  • Tour Guide
  • Hotel Concierge
  • Airline Customer Service Representative
  • Event Coordinator for International Conferences

  • Freelance Translator
  • Localization Specialist
  • Court Interpreter
  • Medical Interpreter
  • Corporate Interpreter
  • Technical Translator (for manuals, software, etc.)

  • Localization Project Manager (video games, software, apps)
  • UX/UI Researcher
  • Technical Support Specialist
  • IT Help Desk Analyst

  • Content Creator
  • International Journalist
  • Social Media Manager
  • Public Relations Coordinator
  • Copywriter

  • International Banking Associate
  • Financial Analyst
  • Risk Analyst
  • Investment Research Associate

  • Buyer
  • Brand Ambassador
  • Customer Success Manager

Minoring in Japanese does more than build language skills. It helps you think critically, communicate across cultures, and understand the world from a global perspective.

You’ll explore Japan’s culture, history, and business practices while improving your ability to adapt, solve problems, and connect with people from different backgrounds. These skills stand out in industries like business, government, education, tech, and international relations.

Employers value candidates who are bilingual and culturally aware, as they help bridge communication gaps and build global relationships.

Explore the various career paths for Japanese minors:

Contact Us

Erina Romanowich

Japanese Advisor
HAMLL - Japanese Language and Culture
Photo of Erina Romanowich
Patterson Hall 133L
Two professors at a podium smiling