Birkbeck, University of London has participated in the Teaching Excellence Framework.These ratings were awarded in 2023, for four years.
Course summary
Learning a language opens a door to another culture. Our BA Japanese Studies allows you to gain a near-fluent command of the Japanese language and combine it with study of Japanese culture. You will be able to choose from modules on Japanese history, society and contemporary culture including cinema, popular culture, manga and anime. Entry requirements are flexible and you can join the degree at various levels of competence in Japanese, from complete beginner to advanced learner. If you opt for the Foundation Year route, this will fully prepare you for undergraduate study. It is ideal if you are returning to study after a gap, or if you have not previously studied the relevant subjects, or if you didn't achieve the grades you need for a place on your chosen undergraduate degree. On the International Experience route, you will normally spend your third year at a partner institution in Japan to allow you to develop your language skills and your knowledge of the culture. Highlights
- Offers a multidisciplinary approach to studying the language, modern history and contemporary culture of Japan.
- You will be taught by specialists from a centre of teaching and research excellence in languages.
- If you choose the International Experience route, you will have the opportunity to spend a year at a partner institution in Japan.
- translator
- secondary school teacher
- social researcher
- journalist.
Modules
For information about course structure and the modules you will be studying, please visit Birkbeck’s online prospectus.
Assessment method
In-class tests, oral presentations, essays and other written tasks.
How to apply
31Jan
This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.
Application codes
- Course code:
- T211
- Institution code:
- B24
- Campus name:
- Main Site
- Campus code:
- -
Points of entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
- Year 1
International applicants
If English is not your first language or you have not previously studied in English, our usual requirement is the equivalent of an International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic Test) score of 6.5, with not less than 6.0 in each of the sub-tests. We also accept other English language tests.
Entry requirements
Qualification requirements
UCAS Tariff - 96 - 128 points
A level - CCC - ABB
We welcome applicants without traditional entry qualifications as we base decisions on our own assessment of qualifications, knowledge and previous work experience. We may waive formal entry requirements based on judgement of academic potential. You must normally have N5-level (JLPT) competence, or the equivalent, in Japanese, but students without prior knowledge of Japanese may also be accepted. Acceptance may be subject to an admissions test and/or interview.
Student Outcomes
Operated by the Office for Students
There is no data available for this course. For further information visit the Discover Uni website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| England | £9250 | Year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £9250 | Year 1 |
| Scotland | £9250 | Year 1 |
| Wales | £9250 | Year 1 |
| International | £17620 | Year 1 |
Additional fee information
International year:
Home students: £1,385 per year
International students: £2,400 per year
Students are charged a tuition fee in each year of their course. Tuition fees for students continuing on their course in following years may be subject to annual inflationary increases.
Provider information
Birkbeck, University of London
Malet Street
Bloomsbury
London
WC1E 7HX
Course contact details
Visit our course pageBirkbeck Student Advice Service
0203 907 0700