A student who is interested in an in-depth study of language may choose to pursue a program in Japanese. In such a program, students will study the language of Japan, including its structure, pedagogy and syntax, along with studying the culture and history of the country.

Requirements for the PhD program often involve the student having already obtained a Master’s degree. Additionally, a thesis or dissertation primarily consisting of original academic research must be submitted. In some countries, this work may even need to be defended in front of a panel.