Certificate in Japanese

Further your understanding of Japanese language and culture for employment, travel or advanced study.

Become proficient in spoken Japanese, master the three Japanese alphabets and gain knowledge of Japanese customs and society with our intensive one year certificate.

During your studies, you will learn how to communicate confidently with Japanese speakers in a range of everyday situations. In addition, you will also develop the ability to read and write Japanese to a similar level.

Please note: This certificate is designed for people who have little or no previous knowledge of the Japanese language.

On completion of this programme you will master the reading and writing of hirigana and katakana and 200 kanji (Chinese characters). You will also learn about Japanese society and gain an appreciation of Japanese customs and values.

This is an academic course of study and time and commitment to after class study is essential for success in this programme. The programme leader will be available to discuss the programme with you to ensure it meets your needs.

This programme is intended for those whose first language is not Japanese. The Head of School will, in consultation with the relevant language specialist, determine whether you are a first language speaker.

NCEA Level 1 (80 credits at Level 1, including 10 Literacy credits and 10 Numeracy credits).

Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?

If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.

Note: The number of courses you have to complete for this qualification may be reduced where you have relevant credits from previous study, or evidence of similar learning or experience in the workplace. Contact Ara for advice.

What if English is not my first language?

If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study.

Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives English Proficiency Outcomes Chart.

OR

IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.

What if I have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance?

You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills.

Ara Institute of Canterbury is recognised as one of New Zealand’s leading tertiary institutes. Specialising in applied, vocational and professional training, it offers more than 150 courses from foundation to postgraduate level. 

Ara caters to a diverse range of learners; from school leavers and career changers to professionals wanting to upskill and individuals seeking to re-enter the workforce.

All Ara students benefit from the Ara Advantage: relevant courses, taught by inspirational mentors in real-life learning environments. Almost every Ara programme includes work-integrated learning. Work placements, apprenticeships, industry-based projects and internships ensure students are work-ready when they graduate.

Across its six campuses, Ara’s dedicated tutors and non-academic staff support students throughout their study journey. A comprehensive range of student services - such as financial assistance, learning support, health and wellbeing services, accommodation, childcare and student events – contributes to the success of every student.

It also has six additional small community hubs which deliver free digital upskilling and personal development courses.