Emily
What does one do with a Japanese major?
I really want to study Japanese -- it's been a passion of mine for a long time. The only problem is, I only know two jobs that I can do with that major, that being translation and a teacher. Neither of which sound like my cup of tea, so what other options do I have? #japanese #foreign-languages #job #future-careers
5 answers
David Goldstein
David’s Answer
Emily, it is great that you want to study Japanese. Japan and the Japanese language are both quite fascinating with ancient history and tradition. There is a need for people who have a good grasp of the Japanese language. What I would suggest is that you pair Japanese with another major, like business, engineering or computer programming skills. That will let you use Japanese in a field other than teaching or a translating. If you look on job websites, you will see that there are many jobs where speaking Japanese is at least a plus or required. Being able to speak Japanese will set you apart from other job seeking candidates.
Masato Koizumi
Masato’s Answer
Hi Emily, I as Japanese am so glad you are interested in my native language. Japanese plus one more major may be very powerful. However, if you can speak and write Japanese VERY well, you will have tons of opportunities in Japan. All industries are looking for bilingual candidates right now. Especially entry level jobs, just having two language skills may be enough to get some jobs. I have many foreign friends got jobs here e.g. marketing, government, biz consultation, IT and more! I hope this helps and encourages you.
James Constantine Frangos
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Emily,
A major in Japanese can unlock a diverse range of career prospects, not limited to translation or teaching. Here's a list of potential career avenues you can explore:
International Commerce: Your Japanese proficiency can be an asset in multinational corporations that engage in business with Japan. Positions in international sales, marketing, or business development often value language and cultural expertise.
Cultural Exchange Initiatives: You could contribute to cultural exchange programs, fostering mutual understanding and collaboration between Japan and other nations. This might include planning events, orchestrating exchanges, or roles in international relations.
Travel and Tourism: If you're drawn to travel and Japanese culture, the tourism industry might be a perfect match. Opportunities include tour guide, travel consultant specializing in Japan, or hospitality management catering to Japanese tourists.
Localization Expert: In our digital era, many companies need their offerings localized for various markets, including Japan. As a localization expert, you'll adjust content to ensure it's culturally suitable and linguistically correct for Japanese consumers.
Public Sector: You might consider roles in government departments that handle diplomacy, trade, or cultural exchange with Japan. Proficiency in the language and culture can be advantageous in international affairs roles.
Media and Entertainment: There are opportunities in media companies, publishing firms, or entertainment businesses that concentrate on Japanese content. Roles might include a journalist reporting on Japan, an editor for Japanese literature translations, or work within the anime/manga industry.
Nonprofit Sector: Numerous nonprofit organizations focus on issues related to Japan, such as education, environmental preservation, or humanitarian aid. Your language skills could be useful in roles that involve liaising with Japanese partners or beneficiaries.
Scholarship and Research: If you have a penchant for academic endeavors, consider a career in research or academia centered on Japanese studies. This might involve becoming a professor specializing in Japanese language, literature, history, or culture.
Keep in mind that coupling your Japanese major with other skills or interests can broaden your career possibilities. Networking with professionals across diverse sectors and pursuing internships in your preferred field can help you navigate various paths and discover the perfect alignment for your skills and passions.
Top 3 Credible References Utilized:
The Japan Times
Japan Society
Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO)
May you be blessed!
James Constantine Frangos.
Brian Tanaka
Brian’s Answer
There are lots of opportunities out there for Japanese Majors!
One avenue I recommend taking a look at is finding Japanese companies in the US. There are great resources out there like this one https://hr.aitworks.com/jobs/ (HRAIT) that offer recruiting services that specialize in Japanese companies in the US.
Japanese companies here tend to want high level Japanese speakers, but are also seeking to avoid the high costs and paperwork that comes with bringing people directly from Japan. In particular, getting working visas is a fairly complicated process. On the other hand, if you are an American citizen, there is no need for any of that stuff, which makes you a much more appealing candidate.
Of course, there will still be an interviewing process to see if you are a good fit, etc. but you'd definitely be able to try for positions other than translation/teaching this way!
Yuji Takashima
Yuji’s Answer
I agree that just major in Japanese would limit your job opportunities but as you minor in creative writing and also double major in graphic design, there should be some good opportunities considering that Japan has been trying to export cultures (fashion, design, anime, manga, music etc.)
As many Japanese do not speak/understand English, non-nativae Japanese speakers have plenty of opportunities in Japan as well especially in the Finance and IT areas too.