Japanese Studies Certificate

This certificate prepares students for roles involving Japanese language and cultural understanding. It focuses on developing language skills up to the intermediate level. Students study Japanese communication, culture, and society through core language courses and electives. The programme includes courses in history, literature, and global Asian studies related to Japan.

Focus areas include Japanese language, Japanese culture, Japanese history, Japanese literature, global Asian studies, Japanese politics.

18 units minimum; 12 units from four required core courses; remaining 6 units from electives; no co-op or practicum required.

Graduates may work in roles requiring Japanese language proficiency and cultural knowledge.

No specific admission requirements; contact the World Languages and Literatures Advisor for declaration.

On-campus; full-time or part-time; duration not specified.

Simon Fraser University, located in Burnaby, British Columbia, is a research-focused institution known for interdisciplinary learning and community engagement. Founded in 1965, SFU enrolls over 35,300 students, including around 5,000 international students, and offers a broad portfolio of undergraduate and graduate programs across arts, sciences, business, communication, engineering and health sciences. The university balances strong research output with student-centered teaching and experiential opportunities.

SFU emphasizes hands-on learning through co-op, internships, community-based research and industry partnerships that connect classroom theory with real-world challenges. Its campuses provide modern facilities and research centers that support innovation across disciplines, while faculty and students collaborate on projects that address social, environmental and technological issues. The university’s location near Vancouver offers cultural vibrancy and access to regional employers and research networks.

Prospective international students can expect robust support in areas such as admissions advising, English language preparation, housing and career services. SFU’s vibrant student life, clubs and volunteer programs help newcomers build networks and gain leadership experience. Applicants should review program-specific requirements, scholarship options and experiential learning pathways to tailor a study plan that aligns with their academic ambitions and career objectives.