Japan Studies M.A. Requirements 2012-13 (entering class)

Asian Studies

Students also must fulfill the general requirements for the field of Asian Studies, that is, an additional two Asian Studies courses, outside of Japan Studies.

Students in Japan Studies also have the option of pursuing a specialization in the International Relations of Asia (AsiaIR)

International Economics

All candidates for the M.A. degree must complete a concentration in the field of International Economics by taking four to six economics courses at SAIS. Students can also pursue a specialization within International Economics by taking additional course work.

Core Courses

All SAIS students must pass two core exams and/or courses. If the core(s) are not completed by the start of his/her final semester, the student must enroll in a core course.

Language Proficiency

Japan Studies M.A. candidates must pass exams to demonstrate proficiency in Japanese. All non-native English speakers are required to pass an English placement exam upon entering SAIS. Native Japanese speakers must pass proficiency in a second language, which can include English.

Capstone

Japan Studies M.A. concentrators must complete ONE of the following capstones: 1. Japan Studies Oral Exam. The exam provides students with the opportunity to cap their academic experience at SAIS through discourse with their professors that highlights the findings of the students' studies and research, particularly the U.S.-Japan Relations Yearbook project. Students will be expected to suggest policy implications for Japan, the U.S., and the world of the issues discussed. At least two Japan Studies professors will administer the exam. Discussion will focus initially on the specific findings of the student in the yearbook project and then branch into broader policy areas. The exam will be graded on a pass-fail basis. Makeup oral exams for students who fail must be scheduled within three weeks of the exam, with the students preparing a three-page paper addressing the areas or issues deemed insufficient by the examiners. Those who fail the makeup exam will not graduate in that semester. 2. M.A. Oral Exam (to compete for honors—if eligible) A total of 16 courses taken for credit are required for an M.A. degree.

Concentration Files