The Japanese major combines thorough training in spoken and written language with study of Japanese culture through a broad range of materials and approaches, including classical and modern literature, linguistics, history, philosophy, visual arts, and popular culture. Most courses are conducted in Japanese.<br><br>Students are expected to study Japanese for four years, regardless of their level when they begin at Georgetown. Students must take at least one JAPN course taught in English in addition to East Asia: Texts and Contexts. One or both semesters of junior year are usually spent abroad. The major culminates in a Senior Seminar paper or Senior Honors Thesis on a topic of the student's choice relating to Japanese culture.<br><br>Majors are strongly recommended to fulfill half of the history portion of their College core requirement by taking at least one course in Japanese history. A variety of Japanese studies courses are also available through other departments, including Economics, Government, International Affairs, Theology and Religious Studies, and Art. These can be taken as free electives, or in some cases to fulfill core requirements. Outside courses can often be counted toward an Asian Studies Certificate for interested students. Students should seek help from their department advisors to develop a well-integrated academic program built around their interests and drawing upon this rich variety of resources.<br><br>Students are encouraged to further their understanding of Japanese culture by participating in the Japan Network, which conducts social and educational activities. Also, a wide range of literary and audio-visual materials concerning Japan is available at the University library. The Freer and Sackler Galleries of Art hold one of the finest collections of East Asian art in the world. The Library of Congress has the largest collection of Japanese books and periodicals outside Japan.