Bachelor in Japanese Studies (Bachelor's)

Earlham College in Richmond, Indiana, is a small liberal arts college founded in 1847 and shaped by Quaker values that emphasise ethical leadership, community and global engagement. With a close-knit campus of around 1,472 students, including international learners, Earlham offers a personalised education that blends rigorous academics with experiential learning. The college’s Quaker heritage informs a culture of reflection, service and collaborative problem-solving.

The Earlham Plan for Integrative Learning guides students through interdisciplinary study, internships, fieldwork and community-based projects that prepare graduates for meaningful careers and civic contribution. Programmes across the humanities, sciences and social sciences emphasise critical thinking, ethical reasoning and cross-cultural competence, while faculty mentorship and small class sizes ensure tailored academic support. International students find opportunities to engage in campus leadership, research and study abroad integration.

Community life at Earlham is active and purposeful, with opportunities for volunteerism, student-led initiatives and sustainable practice embedded into campus life. Career services and alumni networks support internships and post-graduate transitions, and the college’s emphasis on global citizenship helps graduates pursue careers in non-profit, public service, education and international fields. Earlham is a fit for students seeking an education rooted in values, close mentorship and hands-on learning experiences.

Graduates of the Japanese Studies major are qualified to pursue careers in education, government, translation, and corporate consulting in Japan or the United States. The programme combines language training with interdisciplinary study of Japan’s history, society, and culture. Students engage with courses in anthropology, politics, art, literature, and environmental studies. A key requirement is participation in one of Earlham’s off-campus study programmes in Japan.

Focus areas include Japanese Culture and Society, Japanese Language & Linguistics.

The major requires completion of a full year or one semester of off-campus study in Japan. Students must also complete coursework across multiple disciplines and fulfill a capstone thesis requirement.

Graduates enter roles in education, government, translation, corporate consulting, and nonprofit work, both in Japan and the United States.

Applicants must submit a completed application to Earlham College. No specific GPA or test scores are mentioned. Admission is based on overall application materials.

On-campus with a required off-campus study component in Japan; full-time study typically takes four years. For international students, tuition is well above the median for US programmes. The institution admits about 74% of applicants.