East Asian Studies and Japanese BA

Course overview

Cultural powerhouse and economic giant, Japan is home to a varied, changing society. In this degree, you’ll develop language skills in Japanese and gain insight into Japan and the East Asian region.

You’ll explore the culture, history, politics and economics of the region and its global interactions. You’ll combine this with intensive language study to become proficient in Japanese. We teach Japanese from beginner level, but if you already have some knowledge of the language we can accommodate you.

Throughout your degree, core modules will build your skills in Japanese and you’ll study the East Asian region from different perspectives. Topics include East Asian politics, economy, religions, culture and identity and the history of modern China and Japan. You’ll study at one of our partner universities for a year to refine your skills while experiencing life in Japan.

With the international expertise and language skills you’ll develop, you’ll be prepared for a global career.

Specialist facilities

With a variety of specialist facilities and four libraries on campus, you’ll find plenty of space for study, group work and research. 

The world-class Brotherton Library is home to a wide variety of manuscripts, archive and early printed material in its Special Collections – valuable assets for your independent research. Our Japanese and East Asian Studies collection has been curated since the 1990s, alongside our Chinese holdings (since the 1960s) and a growing Thai collection. Our main library resources are also excellent, and the University Library offers a comprehensive training programme to help you make the most of them.  

Our Language Zone gives you access to free learning resources, including space for personal study, language learning software, and video, audio, books and magazines. You'll also have access to our translation computer labs equipped with specialist software and our interpreter training booths to explore different career options.

Our Martin Thomas Translation Labs feature state-of-the-art computing facilities for translation studies as well as Interpreter Training Suites – ideal if you’re considering a career in interpreting. 

Take a look around our libraries:

Brotherton Library
Laidlaw Library
Edward Boyle Library

Course details

This course, and the unique experience of living abroad, will equip you with the knowledge, skills and intercultural awareness necessary to pursue a wide range of exciting global careers.  

Core and optional modules will give you a firm grounding in both subjects as you study topics that suit your interests. You'll also develop a range of transferable skills which are highly regarded by employers, including critical thinking, enhanced communication, analytical and cultural awareness skills.  

Year 1

In your first year, you’ll study core modules that develop your language skills in Japanese, while optional modules enable you to explore Japan’s fascinating history, as well as its social and cultural life. A joint honours degree allows you to study the same core topics as students on each single honours course, but take fewer optional modules so you can fit in both subjects.  

Year 2

You’ll further develop your language proficiency in Japanese, selecting optional modules on topics as diverse as Japanese religion, cinema, modern Japanese history or Sino-Japanese relations. You’ll also choose from a range of broader East Asian Studies modules covering Global Korea, South East Asian political economy and Contemporary East Asian Culture. 

Year 3

You’ll spend a year at one of our Japanese partner universities, building your language skills and gaining a new perspective on the topics you have studied by experiencing life in Japan.

Year 4

You’ll return to Leeds and deepen your knowledge in your final year at Leeds, studying advanced language modules and working on a final-year research project. This could be a dissertation, translation or a public engagement project . You'll also have the flexibility to choose from a range of optional modules in areas that interest you. The international outlook and knowledge you develop alongside advanced language skills will allow you to consider career options in a range of fields.

Course structure

The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.

Year 1 compulsory modules

• Modern Japan (20 credits) - The module introduces the students to key terms and developments in modern Japanese history, and in contemporary Japanese society and culture. The aim is to critique the common stereotypical conceptions of a monolithic and unchanging ‘Japan’ and ‘Japaneseness’ by exploring the rich dynamics of political, social and cultural change. Students will learn about major challenges experienced by Japan and the Japanese since the Meiji period up to the present day.

Year 1 optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)

You'll study either:

• Basic Japanese Language 1 (20 credits) This intensive Japanese language module is suitable for complete beginners, as well as those who have limited knowledge of the language. It aims to help students to improve all four basic skills in a balanced way through lectures and practicals. Students will be engaged in an interactive and communicative learning environment.

• Basic Japanese Language 2 (20 credits) This module will cover new grammatical points, practical exercises based on new grammatical points, listening comprehension, and reading and translation.

Or if you have prior knowledge of Japanese, subject to a placement test, you'll study:

• Intermediate Japanese 1 (20 credits) This module is for those who have taken Japanese A-level or equivalent. It aims to provide a solid foundation in Japanese grammar and further development of both spoken and written skills. Upper-elementary to intermediate grammar and vocabulary will be introduced and reinforced through conversation, extensive reading and translation practice.

• Intermediate Japanese 2 (20 credits) This module is for those who have mastered lower-intermediate Japanese. It aims to further develop knowledge and skills in the use and understanding of written and spoken materials on the basis of grammar mastered in Intermediate Japanese (1) or equivalent.

You’ll also choose from a selection of optional modules such as:

• Modern China: History and Culture (20 credits)

• Foundations of East Asia (20 credits)

• Introduction to East Asian Religions and Philosophies (20 credits)

• Premodern East Asia (20 credits)

• Introduction to Audio-Visual Culture (20 credits)

• Language: Structure and Sound (20 credits)

• World Histories (20 credits)

• Worlds of Literature (20 credits)

• Politics, Culture and Society (20 credits)

• Discourse, Culture and Identity (20 credits)

Year 2 optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)

You'll study either:

• Intermediate Japanese 1 (20 credits)

• Intermediate Japanese 2 (20 credits)

Or:

• Upper-Intermediate Japanese 1 (20 credits)

• Upper-Intermediate Japanese 2 (20 credits)

You’ll also choose from a selection of optional modules such as:

• Japan’s International Relations (20 credits)

• Japanese Development Assistance in a Globalising World (20 credits)

• Japanese Cinema in the World (20 credits)

• Nature and Technology in Japan: Cultural Images (20 credits)

• Contemporary East Asian Culture (20 credits)

• The Making of Modern Thailand (20 credits)

• Topics in Contemporary East Asian Societies (20 credits)

• Global Korea in Context: Sociocultural and Political Dynamics (20 credits)

• Buddhism: A Lived Tradition (20 credits)

• China since 1979 (20 credits)

• Society, Culture and Environment in Early Modern China (20 credits)

• Civil Society and the Non-Profit Sector in Contemporary China (20 credits)

• Chinese Cinema (20 credits)

• Trauma Narratives in the Contemporary Sinophone World (20 credits)

Year 3 compulsory module

• Year Abroad in Japan (120 credits)

Year 4 compulsory modules

• Japanese 3: Advanced Communication Skills (20 credits) - This module aims to develop both written and spoken communication skills at the highest level to deal with a wide range of social and academic issues. Grammatical and lexical knowledge will be reinforced through both intensive and extensive reading. Writing skills will be enhanced through compositions and essay-writing exercises. Oral-aural skills will be also consolidated by speech presentations, discussions and listening practice.

• Final Year Project: Dissertation, Translation, or Public Engagement Project (40 credits) - This may be produced in either English Lectures and workshops provide the skills training necessary, whereas more specific guidance is provided through one to one supervision with a member of staff.

Year 4 optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)

• East Asia's Regional Political Economy (20-credits)

• Southeast Asia: Politics and Economy (20-credits)

• Buddhism: A Lived Tradition (20-credits)

• Advanced Japanese in Context: Culture and Identity (20-credits)

• Advanced Japanese in Context: Social Science (20-credits)

• Japanese to English Translation (20-credits)

• Modern Japanese History (20 credits)

• Death in Japanese Society and Culture (20 credits)

Learning and teaching

You’ll learn through a mix of seminars, lectures, workshops, group sessions and one-to-one supervisions, as well as independent learning supported by a rich range of resources. Our tutors are passionate researchers and dedicated teachers who use a range of teaching methods to help you benefit from their expertise, including lectures, seminars, tutorials and workshops.  

Independent study is also central to this degree, as it allows you to develop your skills in research and analysis. You’ll be able to apply your skills and knowledge in a final-year research project on a topic of your own choice.  

We are committed to an innovative and inclusive approach to teaching, which draws on a variety of activities, including flipped learning, group presentations, and bespoke digital resources to prepare you for your seminar discussions.  

On this course, you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.

Assessment

We are creative in our approach to assessment, and we consistently support your independent learning to ensure assessment is fair and inclusive. 

We use a wide range of assessments including essays, exams, presentations, podcasts, literature reviews, reflective logs, and group projects. Assessments are designed to deliver the transferable skills needed for the world of work; task-based activities are designed to evidence critical thinking, demonstrate initiative, and show knowledge of a range of relevant subjects and sources. We often try to provide you with a choice of assessment type.  

Support for assessments is integrated into our teaching and you'll usually have the opportunity for formative assessments that allow you to practice your skills and do well in your formal assessments. We also run extra classes on skills such as public speaking, structuring essays and exam technique that you’ll be able to attend throughout your time at Leeds. 

Entry requirements

A-level: ABB

GCSE: 4/C in a foreign language

Other course specific tests:

If you’re taking the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) in a relevant subject this might be considered alongside other Level 3 qualifications and may attract an alternative offer in addition to the standard offer. If you’re taking A Levels, this would be BBB-ABB at A Level and grade A in the EPQ.

We welcome applications from mature students with Access qualifications, and from students with a wide range of qualifications.

Alternative qualification

Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the School’s Undergraduate Admissions Team.

Alternative entry

We’re committed to identifying the best possible applicants, regardless of personal circumstances or background.

Access to Leeds is a contextual admissions scheme which accepts applications from individuals who might be from low income households, in the first generation of their immediate family to apply to higher education, or have had their studies disrupted.

Find out more about Access to Leeds and contextual admissions.

Typical Access to Leeds offer:
BBC preferably including a foreign language at A Level and pass Access to Leeds
BCC preferably including a foreign language at A Level, an A in a relevant EPQ and pass Access to Leeds

Arts and Humanities with Foundation Year

This course is designed for students whose backgrounds mean they are less likely to attend university (also known as widening participation backgrounds) and who do not currently meet admissions criteria for direct entry to a degree.

The course will give you the opportunity to be taught by academic staff and provides intensive support to enable your development of academic skills and knowledge. On successful completion of your foundation year, you will progress to your chosen degree course. Find out more about the Arts and Humanities with Foundation Year.

International

We accept a range of international equivalent qualifications. Contact the Undergraduate Admissions Office for more information.

International Foundation Year

International students who do not meet the academic requirements for undergraduate study may be able to study the University of Leeds International Foundation Year. This gives you the opportunity to study on campus, be taught by University of Leeds academics and progress onto a wide range of Leeds undergraduate courses. Find out more about International Foundation Year programmes.

English language requirements

IELTS 7.0 overall, with no less than 6.5. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

Improve your English
If you're an international student and you don't meet the English language requirements for this programme, you may be able to study our undergraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.

Fees

UK: To be confirmed

International: To be confirmed

Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2025/26
The fee for UK undergraduate students is decided by the Government and may vary if policy changes. The fee may increase in future years of your course in line with inflation, and as permitted by law.

Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2025/26 will be £9,535.

The tuition fee for the following programmes with an integrated foundation year is £5,760 for the foundation year, and £9,535 for subsequent years of study:
•    Business Studies with Foundation Year BSC
•    Arts and Humanities with Foundation Year BA
•    Interdisciplinary Studies with Preparation for Higher Education BA
•    Social Science (foundation year) BA
 

Tuition fees for international undergraduate students starting in 2025/26
Tuition fees for international students for 2025/26 are available on individual course pages.
 

Read more about paying fees and charges.

There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.

Scholarships and financial support

If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There is help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Find out more in our Undergraduate funding overview.

Applying

Apply to this course through UCAS. Check the deadline for applications on the UCAS website.

Read our guidance about applying.

International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK students. Our network of international representatives can help you with your application. If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

Admissions policy

University of Leeds Admissions Policy 2025

This course is taught by

School of Languages, Cultures and Societies

Contact us

School of Languages, Cultures and Societies Undergraduate Admissions

Email: artsadmissions@leeds.ac.uk
Telephone:

Career opportunities

You’ll gain the language and professional skills to prepare you for an international career in a wide range of sectors. As well as demonstrating that you’re intellectually versatile, your Japanese language competence will equip you with a wide range of skills across different disciplines which are attractive to employers such as: 

• good research skills and the ability to analyse complex information from multiple sources before drawing your own conclusions 
• communication skills, enabling you to defend your views clearly, either verbally or in writing 
• strong organisational skills and the confidence to work independently or in a team
• a deep understanding of cultural diversity, allowing you to work effectively with people whose backgrounds differ from yours

Leeds graduates have pursued careers across the globe and in a range of sectors, including education, the media, law, publishing, the civil service and diplomacy, business and finance and the charity sector. Many others have also pursued postgraduate study, including further training in language-based careers such as translating and interpreting. 

Careers support

We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That’s one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.

The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more about Careers support.

Study abroad and work placements

Residence abroad

In your third year, you’ll follow a year-long course provided by one of our partner universities in Japan. During your time abroad, you’ll have the chance to practice and develop your language skills as well as immersing yourself in the culture.

Read more about the Japanese residence abroad