If you're considering pursuing a Ph.D. in Japan, particularly in fields related to Japanese Language, Literature, or Culture (JPV), or if you're interested in distance learning options, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process, including books, sample papers, and potential recruitment sectors.
Eligibility:
A Master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Japanese Studies, Linguistics, Literature, or Cultural Studies).
Proficiency in Japanese (often JLPT N1 or N2 is required).
Research proposal aligned with the university’s expertise.
Admission Process:
Identify universities offering Ph.D. programs in Japanese Studies or related fields (e.g., University of Tokyo, Kyoto University, Osaka University, Waseda University).
Contact potential supervisors with a research proposal.
Submit required documents (transcripts, recommendation letters, statement of purpose, etc.).
Clear entrance exams or interviews (if applicable).
Distance Learning Options:
Some Japanese universities offer online or hybrid Ph.D. programs, but these are rare. You may need to relocate to Japan for research.
Alternatively, consider international universities offering online Ph.D. programs in Japanese Studies.
For a Ph.D. in Japanese Studies, you’ll need to build a strong foundation in Japanese language, literature, and culture. Here are some recommended books:
Language:
A Dictionary of Basic/Intermediate/Advanced Japanese Grammar by Seiichi Makino and Michio Tsutsui.
Japanese: The Spoken Language by Eleanor Harz Jorden.
An Introduction to Japanese Linguistics by Natsuko Tsujimura.
Literature:
The Cambridge History of Japanese Literature edited by Haruo Shirane and Tomi Suzuki.
Traditional Japanese Literature: An Anthology, Beginnings to 1600 edited by Haruo Shirane.
Modern Japanese Literature: From 1868 to the Present edited by Donald Keene.
Culture:
Japan: A Cultural Anthropology by Joy Hendry.
The Chrysanthemum and the Sword by Ruth Benedict.
Japanese Culture by H. Paul Varley.
Sample Papers:
Look for academic journals like Journal of Japanese Studies, Japan Forum, or Monumenta Nipponica for sample research papers.
Check university repositories (e.g., University of Tokyo’s institutional repository) for dissertations in Japanese Studies.
Research Databases:
JSTOR, Project MUSE, and CiNii (Japanese academic paper database) are excellent resources.
Use Google Scholar to find recent publications in your area of interest.
A Ph.D. in Japanese Studies opens doors to various career paths:
Academia:
Become a professor or researcher in universities or research institutions.
Teach Japanese language, literature, or culture.
Translation and Interpretation:
Work as a professional translator or interpreter for government agencies, NGOs, or private companies.
Cultural Organizations:
Work with cultural exchange programs, museums, or art galleries.
Publishing and Media:
Write or edit books, articles, or documentaries on Japanese culture and history.
Diplomacy and International Relations:
Join embassies, consulates, or international organizations focusing on Japan.
Corporate Sector:
Work in multinational companies with ties to Japan, especially in roles requiring cultural expertise.
Language Proficiency: Aim for JLPT N1 to demonstrate advanced Japanese skills.
Networking: Attend conferences like the Association for Asian Studies (AAS) or Japan Foundation events.
Research Proposal: Ensure your proposal is original, feasible, and aligns with your supervisor’s expertise.
Funding: Look for scholarships like MEXT (Japanese Government Scholarship) or JASSO support.