

The Master of Arts in Japanese Pedagogy is a comprehensive three year program designed for students seeking expertise in the teaching, learning, and cultural aspects of the Japanese language. The curriculum integrates linguistics, educational theory, language acquisition research, and practical teaching methods to provide a thorough understanding of how to effectively teach Japanese in diverse academic and professional settings. Through this program, students develop teaching methodology, curriculum design, language assessment, and cross cultural communication skills, preparing them to design engaging lesson plans, assess language proficiency, and adapt instructional strategies to meet learner needs.
This full time, on campus program immerses students in an interdisciplinary environment where coursework, applied teaching practice, and research projects converge. Students refine pedagogical theory, instructional technology integration, learner evaluation, and curricular development skills through classroom practice and mentorship. Graduates are prepared to work in educational institutions, language centers, and academic research, equipping them to contribute to innovative language programs, teacher training initiatives, and curriculum development projects that enhance Japanese language learning globally.
Year 1 – Foundations in Japanese Pedagogy
• Introduction to Japanese Language and Linguistics
• Second Language Acquisition Theory
• Foundations of Pedagogical Practices
• Research Methods in Language Education
Year 2 – Advanced Teaching and Curriculum Development
• Curriculum Design and Instructional Planning
• Assessment and Evaluation in Language Teaching
• Technology Enhanced Language Learning
• Classroom Practicum and Observation
Year 3 – Specialization and Applied Research
• Advanced Pedagogical Strategies
• Teacher Training and Professional Development
• Applied Research Project in Japanese Language Education
• Seminar in Educational Innovation
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in academic institutions, language centers, international education programs, curriculum development, and teacher training initiatives. Career paths include language educator, curriculum developer, academic researcher, teacher trainer, and instructional coordinator. Graduates are equipped to design effective teaching programs, evaluate learning outcomes, conduct educational research, and implement innovative instructional strategies. The program also prepares learners for leadership, curriculum design, and research roles that require expertise in Japanese language pedagogy and educational innovation, enabling them to impact language learning practices globally.
Students choose this program because it combines advanced pedagogical training, language acquisition theory, applied teaching experience, and curriculum development skills within a comprehensive three year framework. The curriculum emphasizes hands on teaching practice, applied research, and engagement with educational innovations, allowing learners to develop practical, analytical, and leadership skills in language education. Graduates gain the knowledge, confidence, and professional competencies necessary to pursue careers in teaching, curriculum design, educational research, and international language programs while contributing meaningfully to the advancement of Japanese language pedagogy worldwide.
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 212 854 1754
Email: admissions@columbia.edu
Address: University of Columbia, Admissions Office, New York, NY, United States