Studying Japanese opens the door to one of the world’s most fascinating and globally influential cultures. Whether you’re interested in Japan’s pop culture, dynamic society, or innovative industries, this major equips you with the language skills and cultural insight to thrive in an international environment.
At Murdoch, the Japanese major is open to complete beginners and those with prior knowledge. You’ll study interactive, immersive Japanese language on our Perth campus for up to three years—and if you’re ready for adventure, you can apply to study in Japan through one of the most successful exchange programs in the country.
Since 1992, Murdoch University has exchanged over 1,250 semester placements with its Japanese partner universities. In 2025 alone, nine Murdoch students are undertaking long-term study in Japan for six months or more, while ten others have participated in a short-term, three-week program. At the same time, we are proud to welcome 14 exchange students from our Japanese partner institutions to Murdoch.
3 reasons to study Japanese at Murdoch
- Study in Japan with WA’s Leading Exchange Program: Murdoch’s Japanese Exchange is ranked #1 in WA and among the best in Australia. Choose from 9 top universities across Japan—including Hokkaido University, Rikkyo in Tokyo, Doshisha in Kyoto, and Kwansei Gakuin in Hyogo. Whether you want 3 or 4 weeks or a semester or a full year of studying abroad, our program gives you real-life language practice and unforgettable cultural experiences.
- Flexible Study Options to Match Your Goals: Tailor your degree with a second major or two minors in areas like Games Art & Design, Asian Studies, Computer Science, History, or Anthropology. Complete two full majors in just three years and graduate with a versatile, career-ready qualification.
- Generous Scholarships and Government Support: Murdoch students have earned over $5.9 million in scholarships through the Australian and Japanese governments, as well as our host institutions. You may also be eligible for OS-HELP funding and Youth Allowance while studying abroad—making international study more accessible than ever.
What you’ll learn
Gain the knowledge and skills needed to excel in your studies and future career. In this major, you will:
- Strong communication skills in Japanese: Develop your speaking, listening, reading and writing abilities through practical, real-life scenarios—from everyday conversations to professional contexts.
- Mastery of the Japanese writing system: Learn to read and write using hiragana, katakana, and over 500 commonly used kanji, giving you access to a wide range of Japanese texts and media.
- Cultural understanding through language: Discover how language reflects Japan’s social values, customs, and traditions—from ancient heritage to contemporary pop culture and innovation.
- Critical and intercultural thinking: Gain the skills to interpret, compare, and communicate across cultures—essential for working in international settings or continuing with postgraduate study.
- Preparation for study and life in Japan: Build the confidence and practical language needed to thrive during a semester or year abroad at one of our 9 prestigious Japanese partner universities.
Your future career
Graduates with strong Japanese language and cultural knowledge are in demand across diverse industries, both in Australia and internationally. You’ll be prepared for roles such as:
- Diplomat or Government Advisor
- Media Producer, Content Creator or Pop Culture Commentator
- Translator or Interpreter
- International Relations or Business Professional
- Tourism and Hospitality Coordinator
- Language Educator or Academic
- Exchange or Study Abroad Program Coordinator
You can also further your studies with a Graduate Diploma in Asian Language In-Country, a one-year postgraduate program, allowing you to deepen your expertise while studying in Japan.
Previous admission information is available at Murdoch Admission Information - Arts.
Professional recognition
It is possible to gain accreditation as an interpreter and translator through separate application and testing by NAATI (National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters).
