Japanese Language and Culture Major Requirements
In consultation with an advisor from within the department, students develop a major plan with a focus on Japanese language and culture. All majors will include no fewer than 8 courses (32 credits), with the following requirements:
1. Language Proficiency
Students must attain proficiency in Japanese equivalent to the level upon completion of JAPA 407 . The following courses may be counted toward the language proficiency portion of the major: JAPA 203 , JAPA 204 , JAPA 305 , JAPA 306 , JAPA 407 , and JAPA 408 . The following courses may not be counted toward the major: JAPA 101 and JAPA 102 . There is no minimum number of language courses a student must take in order to satisfy the requirements of the major. Students who test out of JAPA 407 may complete the requirement by taking Japan-related content courses.
2. Japan-Focused Content Courses
A minimum of four Japan-Focused Content Courses must be taken. Examples include courses on Japanese literature, film, history, art history, music history, geography, religion, linguistics.
- At least two courses must focus on Japanese literature, linguistics or film. At least one of these courses must be taken at Macalester and have the prefix of JAPA (this does not include the capstone).
- At least one of the four courses must - in consultation with the department chair - provide historical depth.
3. Study Away
All majors must study away for one semester at an approved institution in Japan. With department chair approval, courses taken as part of the study away program may substitute for some major requirements.
4. Capstone Course or Honors Thesis
The capstone must be done at Macalester.
Macalester