BA/BS in Japanese Studies

The Japanese Studies certificate develops language competency in Japanese alongside cultural and social understanding of Japan. Housed in the Department of World Languages and Literatures within the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, the certificate combines four required core language courses, which take students through intermediate-level Japanese, with elective courses drawn from departments across the university that examine Japan-related topics in history, culture, and society. Students complete a minimum of 18 units, of which 12 units come from the four required core courses; at least 12 of the total units must be completed at Simon Fraser University, leaving room for some transfer credit toward the remainder. The certificate has no separate admission process: students already admitted to SFU declare it directly through the department advisor. It suits students who want a standalone credential in Japanese alongside another degree, rather than a full major or minor in the language.