JS5201 Readings in Japanese Studies I

Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-3-4

This course provides a coverage of the secondary literature on the humanities component of Japanese studies. Students will be exposed to the latest advances in the field focusing on selected themes. They are also expected to gain a firm grasp of the development of the field through the examination of major methodological and theoretical debates.

JS5202 Readings in Japanese Studies II

Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-3-4

This course provides a coverage of the secondary literature on the social sciences component of Japanese studies. Students will be exposed to the latest advances in the field focusing on selected themes. They are also expected to gain a firm grasp of the development of the field through the examination of major methodological and theoretical debates.

JS5203 Japanese Literary & Performance Studies

Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-3-4

This course uses selected texts (including literary writings, historical documents, film and paintings) to examine the Japanese literary and performance discourse in both modern and pre-modern times. Texts produced outside Japan will also be included in order to gain a wider perspective. The extensive scope of texts use and the rigorous critical reading trainings students will undertake will provide them with an in-depth understanding of the practice of literary and performance studies in Japan.

JS5204 Contemporary Japanese Social Issues

Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-4-3

This course examines important social issues in contemporary Japan from the socio-anthropological perspective. It aims to develop students' critical thinking and to provide them with an advanced knowledge of the theories and methods in the socio-anthropological study of such important and current topics as aging, poverty, gender inequality, education, and the environment in Japan.

JS5205 Reading of Japanese Historical Sources

Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-0-7

This course introduces students to the textual techniques and interpretive methods necessary for the effective use of original Japanese sources for historical research. Students will provide critical translations of archival materials and important original works written in a variety of scripts, in handwriting and in print, and in different literary styles. It will focus on the modern period (since 1860) with an emphasis on materials pertaining ito Sino-Japanese and Japan-Southeast Asian relations.

JS5206 Digital Technologies and Japanese Theatre

Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-4-3

Digital technologies have become a critical presence in both the creation and consumption of theatrical performances. Students will study contemporary performances derived from traditional theatrical genres and other theatrical forms using printed and multimedia texts. They will analyze theoretical writings on technologies and performance to establish a closer relationship between theory and practice within the field of Japanese theatrical studies. By building digital projects, students will have the opportunity to experience firsthand the ecology of digital technologies and theatrical performance.

JS5660 Independent Study

Units: 4
Workload: Minimum 10 hours per week. The precise breakdown of contact hours, assignment and preparation is to be worked out between the lecturer and the student, subject to Department approval.

Independent research plays an important role in graduate education. The Independent Study Module is designed to enable the student to explore an approved topic in Japanese Studies in depth. The student should approach a lecturer to work out an agreed topic, readings, and assignments for the course. A formal, written agreement is to be drawn up, giving a clear acount of the topic, programme of study, assignments, evaluation, and other pertinent details. Head's and/or Graduate Coorindator's approval of the written agreement is required. Regular meetings and reports are expected. Evaluation is based on 100% Continuous Assessment and must be worked out between the student and the lecturer prior to seeking departmental approval.

JS6201 Readings in Japanese History & Society

Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-3-4

This course allows students to investigate in depth representative methods and theories in the study of Japanese history and society. It will emphasize (1) a broad and critical review of the latest research in selected subfields, and (2) the design and prosecution of an individual project demonstrating the student's ability to do advanced and original research. All students will be required to work effectively with English and Japanese sources. Individual projects may demand working knowledge of other languages.

JS6202 Readings in Japanese Politics & Economics

Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-3-4

This course deals with the theoretical and methodological issues of research on Japanese Politics and Economics. Major contributions to both fields from in and outside of Japan are to be critically reviewed under methodological criteria as well as in regard to their impact on general theory advancement, policy making and popular understanding of Japan. Participants will pursue a research project advancing their ability to devise a project and to utilize sources in Japanese and other relevant languages.

JS6203 Readings in Japanese Literature & Culture

Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-3-4

This course focuses on selected texts in the Japanese literary field (including literary texts and theories) and cultural history. Students are expected to conduct critical reading and analysis of the texts. The course emphasizes on training students in acquiring both a general understanding of scholarship in the field of literature and culture, as well as the critical perspectives necessary in doing original research. Sources in both English, Japanese and other relevant languages will be used.

JS6204 Readings in Japanese Linguistics

Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-3-4

This course requires students to critically examine current methodological and theoretical debates in the field of Japanese linguistics by means of a comprehensive review of representative works in English and Japanese. A solid foundation in linguistics and proficiency in Japanese language (JLPT level 1 or equivalent) is essential.

JS6660 Independent Study

Units: 4
Workload: Minimum 10 hours per week. The precise breakdown of contact hours, assignment and preparation is to be worked out between the lecturer and the student, subject to Department approval

Independent research plays an important role in graduate education. The Independent Study Module is designed to enable the student to explore an approved topic in Japanese Studies in depth. The student should approach a lecturer to work out an agreed topic, readings, and assignments for the course. A formal, written agreement is to be drawn up, giving a clear account of the topic, programme of study, assignments, evaluation, and other pertinent details. Head's and/or Graduate Coordinator's approval of the written agreement is required. Regular meetings and reports are expected. Evaluation is based on 100% Continuous Assessment and must be worked out between the student and the lecturer prior to seeking departmental approval.

JS6770 Graduate Research Seminar

Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-7-0

This is a required course for all research Masters and PhD students admitted from AY2004/2005. The course provides a forum for students and faculty to share their research and to engage one another critically in discussion of their current research projects. The course will include presentations by faculty on research ethics and dissertation writing. Each student is required to present a formal research paper. Active participation in all research presentations is expected. The course may be spread over two semesters and will be granted "Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory" on the basis of student presentation and participation.