The M.A. in International Business and Development Studies emphasizes the acquisition of analytical skills to deal with a broad range of contemporary and development problems with a strong focus on Japan and Asia. It seeks to provide students with an integrated understanding of business and development together with specialized training in one of these fields. Due to globalization, business activities are increasingly worldwide in scope, requiring a deep understanding of conditions in both developed and developing countries as well as specialized management capability. International organizations, governments of developing countries, and businesses committed to sustainable development likewise need specialists capable of handling development issues from a business perspective. In pursuing this degree graduate students are advised to plan their course selection in consultation with faculty members so as to facilitate the acquisition of an integrated or specialized capability in business and/or economics.

The M.A. in Japanese Studies offers an integrated and interdisciplinary approach to the study of historical and contemporary aspects of Japanese history, literature, religion, art history, society, and culture. Courses are organized in two categories: Arts and Culture (art history, cultural studies, and literature) and Thought and Society (history, religion and philosophy, anthropology). For a balanced understanding and exposure to the themes, methodologies and research materials of the different disciplines, students are required to take at least four credits from each of the two categories. All students must also take a two-credit introductory course on Japanese Studies during their first autumn semester. Students are furthermore advised to take advanced Japanese language training to facilitate the use of Japanese sources in research.

The Ph.D. in Japanese studies is designed for the advanced study of Japan in a transnational, regional and global context. Research and writing agendas emphasize methods and concepts from the disciplines of art history, literature, history, religion and anthropology. The degree prepares candidates for academic positions in Japanese Studies programs, for research positions in foundations, NGOs, and companies that need advanced analyses of countries and regions in global contexts.

The Ph.D. program, which requires a three-year residency, focuses on the writing of a doctoral dissertation. For students entering from 2018, earning 6 credits from the specified number of courses is mandatory for the attainment of the doctorate. Candidates first pass several qualifying exams and then, upon successful defense of a dissertation prospectus proceed to dissertation research and writing. To enable close guidance of the dissertation, only a few candidates are admitted each year.

Note for prospective applicants: Prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to review each faculty member’s research/teaching expertise and indicate, in their statements of purpose, a potential faculty advisor under whom they wish to conduct their graduate studies.