こんにちは

Is the Japanese language too difficult to learn?

If you begin with one of our Japanese courses, you will soon answer “No” to this question. Japanese is ranked as the 6^th most studied language in the world, and it is currently being taught in 142 different countries. In the United States, 1446 different institutions currently offer Japanese courses (according to the survey data released in 2018 by the Japan Foundation). Considering that the Japanese language is mainly spoken in Japan, its  popularity worldwide is outstanding. Not only the uniqueness of the language itself but also various aspects of Japanese culture attract many learners across the globe.

What would you do with your Japanese skills?

Learning another language opens the door to another pathway. No matter what your future profession may be, your Japanese proficiency will be beneficial and valuable in many industries. There are major Japanese businesses in the tristate area that regularly seek  candidates with Japanese language proficiency. If you wish to study abroad in Japan, you can apply to one of the Rowan-affiliated schools in Japan and your coursework will transfer back to Rowan to fulfill program requirements. If your dream is to live or work in Japan, the JET program is a great opportunity and some of our graduates are currently working as JET teachers in Japan.  Your possibilities are endless! 

Programs and Courses Offered at Rowan

Our department offers six semesters of Japanese language, from Elementary Japanese I to Oral Japanese, and the courses have been seamlessly designed as a complete program. Every course focuses on communication skills, and the interactions between the Sensei and the students in class are remarkable. Another focus of the program is to provide students with a strong foundation in Kanji knowledge, both reading and writing, so that they may continue to develop their Kanji proficiency after completing the program. In the Intermediate-level classes, students are encouraged to practice for and take the JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test). We offer a Certificate of Undergraduate Study (CUGS) in Japanese (12 credits) and a Minor in Japanese (18 credits) that are both open to all Rowan students. 

Japanese Faculty, Sensei  

All our Sensei grew up in Japan and are knowledgeable about the unique Japanese culture, traditions, and society. They are passionate about teaching Japanese as proud native speakers. In addition to extensive teaching experience and training, they have worked in global business as well. They strive for excellence in teaching and in inspiring their students. Our Japanese Program has become one of the most rapidly growing programs at Rowan with their effort. 

Japanese Culture Club is a fun community of Tomodachi!

Outside of class, students can immerse themselves in Japanese culture through the integration of Japanese language, food, music, and values as well as traditional and modern Japanese philosophy. Regular activities include Calligraphy workshops, Origami workshops, Bento-box cooking competitions, Game nights, Karaoke parties, Chado (traditional Tea Ceremony) demonstrations, etc. The Club also holds a few fieldtrips every year such as going to Shofuso, the Japanese House & Garden in Philadelphia and Mitsuwa Marketplace in Edgewater. If you are looking for a fun community of wonderful Tomodachi, our Japanese Culture Club is for you!

Contact:

If you have any questions regarding the Japanese Program and/or Culture Club, please email the Japanese Coordinator/Advisor, Professor Chie Matsumura Dusk at dusk@rown.edu.