UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD · UNITED KINGDOM
MPhil in Japanese Studies
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
21 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 21 monthsProgram Length
- Advanced Japanese LanguageKey Skill Focus
- Interdisciplinary ApproachStudy Method
- 30,000-word thesisCulminating Project
- Research SeminarsAcademic Community
The MPhil in Japanese Studies at the University of Oxford is a comprehensive two-year program designed for students aiming for advanced understanding of Japan. This full-time, on-campus course integrates intensive Japanese language training with in-depth study of Japan's politics, society, literature, and history. It is a collaborative offering from the Oxford School of Global and Area Studies (OSGA) and the Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies. This MPhil program is structured to either prepare you for employment in roles involving Japan or to serve as a strong foundation for doctoral research on Japan at Oxford or other institutions. The curriculum focuses on enhancing existing Japanese language proficiency (targeting JLPT Level 3 to Level 1 and beyond) and developing robust research skills through a mix of core courses, elective modules, and a substantial dissertation.
Curriculum
The MPhil in Japanese Studies is a two-year, six-term taught course comprising eight components, designed to deepen your understanding of contemporary Japan and develop your language and research skills.
- Year One
- Research Methods
- Option Course 1
- Option Course 2
- Japanese Language Course (or additional option for native speakers)
- Year Two
- Research Methods (in appropriate department)
- Option Course
- Advanced Japanese Language Course (or additional option for native speakers)
- Dissertation (30,000 words)
Careers
Graduates of the MPhil in Japanese Studies typically pursue one of three career paths, leveraging their enhanced Japanese language skills, critical thinking, and social science knowledge of Japan.
- Further academic study (DPhil/PhD)
- Roles in Japan or with Japanese employers (e.g., Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Mitsui-Sumitomo Bank)
- Professional careers (e.g., Accenture, KPMG, Ernst & Young)
Frequently asked questions
- What is the duration of the MPhil in Japanese Studies?
- The MPhil in Japanese Studies is a full-time, two-year (21 months) program designed for advanced study of Japan.
- What are the entry requirements for the MPhil in Japanese Studies?
- While the program does not teach Japanese for beginners, it aims to develop existing language skills. Applicants generally need a minimum of JLPT Level 3 and must meet the University's higher-level English language requirements.
- What are the estimated living costs for this program?
- Estimated living costs range from £17,100 to £24,420 per year, covering food, accommodation, personal items, and study expenses. Additional costs for visas and health surcharges apply to international students.
- When do applications open for the MPhil in Japanese Studies?
- Applications for the 2026-27 intake are currently closed. You can register to receive an email notification when applications open for the 2027-28 academic year.
- What are the career prospects after completing the MPhil in Japanese Studies?
- Graduates typically pursue further academic study (DPhil/PhD), roles in Japan or with Japanese employers, or professional careers in fields such as consulting and finance.
- Are there any scholarships available for international students?
- The New College Graduate Awards offer generous funding. To be considered, you must specify New College as your first-choice college on your application, and applications for scholarship consideration close by the University's January deadline.
Entry requirements
University's English language requirementsHigher level required
JLPTMinimum Level 3
The department does not teach Japanese for beginners but aims to develop existing language skills for research purposes.
Fees
Tuition (international)Information not provided on program page.
Tuition (home)Information not provided on program page.
LivingEstimated between £17,100 and £24,420 per year (for 12 months) for a single student. This includes food, accommodation, personal items, social activities, study costs, and miscellaneous expenses.
Living costs are estimates and can vary based on lifestyle. Additional costs such as visa fees and the immigration health surcharge apply for international students and their dependants, and must be paid upfront for the entire duration of the course.
How to apply
1. Search for your courseUse the University's graduate admissions portal to find the MPhil in Japanese Studies.
2. Prepare your applicationGather all necessary documents including academic transcripts, English language proficiency proof, and a personal statement.
3. Meet deadlinesBe aware of the application deadline for your desired intake year. For scholarships, note the University's January application deadline.
4. Apply for scholarshipsIf applying for college-specific scholarships like those at New College, ensure you specify your preferred college and meet their specific application criteria.
Scholarships
New College Graduate AwardsGenerous
Frequently asked questions
What is the duration of the MPhil in Japanese Studies?
+
The MPhil in Japanese Studies is a full-time, two-year (21 months) program designed for advanced study of Japan.
What are the entry requirements for the MPhil in Japanese Studies?
+
While the program does not teach Japanese for beginners, it aims to develop existing language skills. Applicants generally need a minimum of JLPT Level 3 and must meet the University's higher-level English language requirements.
What are the estimated living costs for this program?
+
Estimated living costs range from £17,100 to £24,420 per year, covering food, accommodation, personal items, and study expenses. Additional costs for visas and health surcharges apply to international students.
When do applications open for the MPhil in Japanese Studies?
+
Applications for the 2026-27 intake are currently closed. You can register to receive an email notification when applications open for the 2027-28 academic year.
What are the career prospects after completing the MPhil in Japanese Studies?
+
Graduates typically pursue further academic study (DPhil/PhD), roles in Japan or with Japanese employers, or professional careers in fields such as consulting and finance.
Are there any scholarships available for international students?
+
The New College Graduate Awards offer generous funding. To be considered, you must specify New College as your first-choice college on your application, and applications for scholarship consideration close by the University's January deadline.