Why Japanese at Iowa?
Graduate with a unique skill set that opens doors in Japan, the U.S., and across the globe.
Explore undergraduate programs in Japanese
Enrich your academic journey
Immerse yourself in Japanese language and culture with our comprehensive and vibrant program. Studying Japanese at Iowa covers a wide range of fields, including linguistics, literature, film, and more.
Honors
Earn honors in your major while studying Japanese at the University of Iowa.
Study abroad
Practice your language skills, expose yourself to world cultures, and expand your worldview.
Internships
Apply what you learn in the program, gain real world experience, and pursue your future career path.
Connect with an ambassador
Become a student ambassador
Why study Japanese at Iowa?
The University of Iowa offers a dynamic, comprehensive Japanese program that opens doors to global opportunities.
At the University of Iowa, the Japanese program stands out as the most comprehensive in Iowa and one of the most vibrant nationwide. With four years of language classes, as well as courses in linguistics, literature, film, theater, and popular culture, you’ll gain a well-rounded understanding of Japan's rich cultural landscape. Whether you're looking to develop fluency in the language or explore Japanese visual culture and translation, Iowa offers a curriculum that prepares you for a global career.
Study abroad opportunities further enrich the experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in Japanese culture firsthand. Iowa's exchange programs with prestigious universities like Kanda University and Nagoya University offer unique, on-the-ground learning experiences. In addition to these programs, you’ll be part of an engaged and supportive community, connecting with peers, faculty, and experts through annual events, language tables, and networking opportunities. At Iowa, studying Japanese is more than just academics—it’s an immersive cultural journey that prepares you for success both in Japan and around the world.
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Undergraduate courses offered
News
Critical Language Scholarship winner Brenda Gao to study Japanese in Okayama this summer
Japanese language and culture resources
Study in Japan
We encourage you to study abroad to develop your linguistic and intercultural competencies. The university has several opportunities to select from.
Center for Language and Culture Learning
The Center for Language and Culture Learning (CLCL) supports the University of Iowa faculty, graduate assistants, and students in the teaching, learning, and promotion of language and culture.
Write your story
Build knowledge. Conduct research. Create new work. Stand out among your peers. You're going places, and it all starts here.
Japanese faculty
Kendall Heitzman, PhD
Haru Nakagawara, MA
Yumiko Nishi, PhD
Nana Onishi, MA
