Studying Japanese

Why study Japanese at Linfield?

Linfield offers majors in Japanese studies and Japanese language and culture. An integral part of the Japanese program here at Linfield is studying abroad. Majors are required to study in Japan for an academic year, and minors for one semester. 

Japanese classes integrate oral/aural skills along with written skills and, as with other foreign languages offered at Linfield, are assessed by a variety of tools, including ones that are based on the ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines and on the universally recognized JLPT exam.

We employ a team-teaching approach.

This allows us to effectively provide you with the Japanese language skills and familiarity with Japanese culture and society that will enable you to pursue graduate studies or careers involving Japanese. The two Japanese language instructors are assisted by a trained Japanese language assistant who comes to Linfield via the ALLEX program and assists for a period of two academic years.

Beyond the classroom

At Linfield, language study extends beyond the classroom. While studying in the Japanese program, you are encouraged to use Japanese in a variety of ways, including:

• Conversation Partners Program: meet weekly with a Japanese exchange student for language exchange
• Japanese Language Table: speak Japanese with your peers
• The Linfield Taiko: Japanese drum ensemble performing at cultural and community events
• Internship opportunities