BA in East Asian Studies and Music, SOAS University of London

36 Months

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About this course

The BA Japanese at SOAS University of London offers students a comprehensive approach to studying the Japanese language and culture. It combines the study of the Japanese language with various disciplines related to Japan, providing a broad understanding of the region. Students will engage with disciplinary modules and can study the language each year, with the possibility of progressing through a sequence of levels up to approximately C1 in the CEFR. The program accommodates complete beginners as well as more experienced learners, and offers modules in literature and film for those who exceed the highest level. The course aims to develop intercultural awareness, analysis, and communication skills, making graduates highly sought after in various international sectors.

Why this course is highly recommended

SOAS is ranked 12th in the UK for Modern Languages and 10th for East Asian Studies, making it a top choice for students interested in Japanese and East Asian studies. The program's flexible structure allows students to tailor their studies to their interests, whether focusing more on language, culture, or other disciplines. The increasing demand for professionals with proficiency in Japanese language and cultural knowledge enhances graduates’ employability in organizations like Google, Amazon, and the Japanese Government, among others.

Specialisation

The course offers a focus on the Japanese language along with regional and cultural studies related to Japan. Students can study the language at different levels and have access to modules in literature and film for advanced learners, alongside a range of disciplinary options related to Japan.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

24.14L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants are expected to meet the entry requirements of AAA-ABB, with specific contextual offers such as AAB-BBB depending on the applicant's background. For joint degrees, the offer is based on the subject with higher requirements, and the course is full-time with a duration of 3 years beginning in September 2025.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

DUOLINGO

PTE

Want to learn more about the admission process, eligibility criteria, and acceptance rates for international students? Visit the SOAS University of London admission page for complete details.

Career prospects

Graduates develop strong intercultural, analytical, and communication skills. Their proficiency in Japanese and understanding of East Asian cultures make them attractive to global employers. Recent alumni have gone on to work with organizations like Bloomberg LP, the European Commission, Google, the Japanese Government, KPMG, and the Seoul Metropolitan Government, among others.

FAQs

Does the course include a year abroad?

No, the BA Japanese course at SOAS does not include a year abroad.

Can I start as a beginner in Japanese?

Yes, the course accommodates complete beginners and offers progression through four levels up to approximately C1 in the CEFR.