Overview

The Japanese programme at the University of Hawaii at Manoa provides students with a rigorous academic foundation in one of the world’s most influential languages. This degree is designed to foster high-level proficiency while exploring the rich literary and cultural heritage of Japan within a global context.

As part of the Department of East Asian Languages & Literatures, the curriculum is delivered by a large and diverse faculty of experts. Students benefit from an environment that balances practical communication skills with theoretical academic research. The department is recognised as the largest instructional unit in its college, supporting a vibrant community of scholars and learners.

Instruction focuses on developing the four essential language skills: speaking, listening, reading, and writing.

Why Japanese at the University of Hawaii at Manoa?

The University of Hawaii at Manoa hosts the largest department of East Asian languages in the United States, offering a scope of study that is truly unparalleled. Students have access to extensive facilities and a high concentration of specialist faculty members dedicated to East Asian linguistics and literature. The institution is a hub for cultural exchange, frequently hosting events such as Japanese Culture Days and academic talk series.

The programme is distinguished by its innovative teaching methods and its role in training the next generation of educators and professionals. With a high student enrollment and significant research output, the department provides a dynamic atmosphere for academic growth. Its location and institutional partnerships make it a premier destination for those seeking a deep connection to Pacific Rim cultures.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 33552 per year
National fee: USD 33552 per year
Local fee: USD 11520 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Japanese
Japanese Linguistics
Japanese Literature
Japanese Culture
Speaking
Listening
Reading
Writing

Careers with Japanese

Graduates of the Japanese programme at the University of Hawaii at Manoa are equipped for diverse roles in local, national, and international sectors. Many alumni secure positions within government agencies or private firms that require high-level linguistic expertise and cultural competency. The skills gained during the degree are highly valued in global trade, diplomacy, and international relations.

In addition to corporate roles, many students pursue careers in education as instructors in schools and colleges worldwide. Others find success as professional translators or researchers within the field of East Asian studies. The programme provides a strong foundation for those wishing to continue their education at the master's or doctoral level to enter academia.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Japanese Culture and Behavior

Early Art of Japan

Later Art of Japan

Japanese Visual Culture – Anime & Manga

Applied Art of Japan

Asian Nation Studies

Geography of Japan

The Way of Tea in Japanese History and Culture

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-08-18 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-06-30 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-01-13 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-01 00:00:00
Starting 2027-08-18 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-04-01 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

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IELTS

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Honolulu, United States

Disciplines

Linguistics Asian studies View 450 other Bachelors in Linguistics in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Complete the Freshman Application!

Application Fee: $70 U.S.

Official High School Transcripts

Letter of Recommendation

Personal Statement & List of Achievements Form

Official Standardized Test Scores

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

33552 USD / year

≈ 33552 USD / year
Out-of-State

33552 USD / year

≈ 33552 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

11520 USD / year

≈ 11520 USD / year

Living costs

Honolulu

United States

1640 - 2500 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Japanese.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Honolulu

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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