Introduction to Japanese Language and Culture

(3 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

This course is designed to equip students with the fundamental knowledge about the history of Japanese language in its social and cultural contexts, along with the essential linguistic characteristics of the language. Although the main focus of the course is the language, this course is not part of the regular language courses. Students will learn basic facts about how the language "evolved" into its modern form through the history of Japanese civilization. They will also learn fundamental features of Japanese sounds, grammar, and usage in social contexts that are not explicitly covered in language classes from a linguistic perspective. Students who plan to take the beginning level of Japanese language course, this course will be especially beneficial in gaining a head start.