Japanese Language Program

The Department of East Asian Studies has a strong Japanese Language program, with general instruction available in three levels, from beginning to advanced, plus specialized instruction in advanced reading, writing, and conversation. In addition, there are opportunities for overseas Study Abroad programs.  

1. Language Testing

For full information, FAQs, and registration links please see the language testing information page. 

Placement Exam: Before enrolling in Japanese language classes, students may be required to take a placement exam to determine their level. These tests are given during the week before the start of each semester. 

Proficiency Exam: The Japanese Language program offers proficiency exams in Japanese to allow students to complete their foreign language requirement without taking classes. These tests are given during the week before the start of each semester. Register online at Japanese proficiency exam. 

2. Classes

JPN 101 - Elementary Japanese I

Beginning conversation, grammar, reading and writing in modern Japanese.

Textbook: Nakama 1 by Yukiko Abe Hatasa, Kazumi Hatasa, and Seiichi Makino

JPN 102 - Elementary Japanese II

Beginning conversation, grammar, reading and writing in modern Japanese. Students not in a University of Arizona Japanese class the previous semester must take a placement test.

Textbook: Nakama 1 by Yukiko Abe Hatasa, Kazumi Hatasa, and Seiichi Makino

JPN 201 - Intermediate Japanese I

Intermediate conversation, grammar, reading and writing in modern Japanese. Students not in a University of Arizona Japanese class the previous semester must take a placement exam.

Textbook: Nakama 2 by Yukiko Abe Hatasa, Kazumi Hatasa, and Seiichi Makino

JPN 202 - Intermediate Japanese II

Intermediate conversation, grammar, reading and writing in modern Japanese. Students not in a University of Arizona Japanese class the previous semester must take a placement exam.

Textbook: Nakama 2 by Yukiko Abe Hatasa, Kazumi Hatasa, and Seiichi Makino

JPN 301 - Advanced Japanese I

Advanced conversation, grammar, reading and writing in modern Japanese.

Textbook: An Integrated Approach to Intermediate Japanese by Akira Miura and Naomi Hanaoka McGloin

JPN 302 - Advanced Japanese II

Advanced conversation, grammar, reading and writing in modern Japanese.

Textbook: An Integrated Approach to Intermediate Japanese by Akira Miura and Naomi Hanaoka McGloin

JPN 421/521 - Advanced Practice in Japanese

Reading and discussion in Japanese of a variety of advanced-level materials, including newspaper articles, short stories, and poetry.

JPN 422/522 - Advanced Practice in Japanese

Reading and discussion in Japanese of a variety of advanced-level materials, including newspaper articles, short stories, and poetry.

3. Language Table

The Japanese language table is usually held twice a week around lunchtime in a conference room in the Learning Services Building.  This is an opportunity to speak in Japanese with native speakers and with other Japanese learners. At the language table, people range from absolute beginners to native speakers, but we are all trying to converse in Japanese to the best of our ability. Special events such as experiencing Japanese cultural practices and games are occasionally held at the language table.

4. Photo Gallery