Japanese Area
日本語
We currently offer a minor in Japanese and a major in MLLI-Language and Cultural Studies-Japanese track. Upper-level Japanese courses may be used as the secondary language to complete the Two-Language major option, or in conjunction with the Language and Cultural Studies option. We do not currently offer a one-language major track or certificate program in Japanese.
What’s special about Japanese at UMBC?
The Japanese program at UMBC helps students learn how to:
- apply their education to real world situations
- adapt new culturally appropriate behaviors
- become lifelong learners
In the introductory level Japanese courses, students learn how grammar and sentence structure vary in specific situations. Students continue this education into upper level courses and learn how to apply their Japanese skills to real world situations. Exposing students to real world situations, enable students to become more comfortable using the Japanese language as a tool for further their cultural understanding and to effectively communicate with others in Japanese. The Japanese program at UMBC emphasizes the importance of not only the basic four language skill sets: listening, reading, speaking, and writing, but also emphasizes the critical use of culturally appropriate behaviors in real world situations.
Major Track Options
Students can select either Cultural Studies Japanese track or a Two-Language option: French, German, Russian and Spanish as the primary language, and Japanese as the secondary language
Minor Program
Students are encouraged to consider a minor in Japanese with a major in various fields including Asian Studies, History, Visual Arts, Computer Science, Informational Technology and others. An additional Japanese minor allows students to learn the skill sets of communicating on a global scale.

Bridge in Miyajima
Course Description
Study Abroad
Career after Graduation
Frequently Asked Questions
Summer Japanese Programs
Resources