Japanese

Take your first step towards immersing yourself in Japan’s rich culture and history by studying the Japanese language at Pasadena City College!

Whether you’re a beginner, or have some prior knowledge of the Japanese language, you can choose from introductory, intermediate, and advanced Japanese language courses. You will also have the opportunity to study Japanese literature and civilization to further promote your interests and knowledge in Japan.

We offer beginning and intermediate Japanese language courses as well as a variety of culture and history courses. Use the links below to see full course descriptions and the current schedule of classes.

Japanese | Associate in Arts (AA) Degree

Major in Japanese AND earn a degree. By completing the Japanese major program at PCC you will earn an AA degree in Japanese as well as complete many of your lower division major requirements to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Japanese prior to transferring to a four-year university.

View AA Degree Requirements

Foreign Language Proficiency in Japanese | Occupational Skills Certificate

Demonstrate your proficiency in the Japanese Language with an Occupational Skills Certificate! Certificates are available in Basic Proficiency in Japanese (12-13 unit certificate), Intermediate Proficiency in Japanese 12-13 unit certificate), and Advanced Proficiency in Japanese (10 unit certificate).

Certificate Completion

To earn an Occupational Skills Certificate you must complete all required courses with a C or better. After completing course requirements, complete the Certificate Application and return to the Languages Office, C-247.

Download Certificate Application

As a PCC student studying Japanese, you be may be eligible for the following scholarships:

  • The Dr. Hirai Japanese Scholarship

Learn More about Languages Division Scholarships