The objective of the programme is to encourage the advancement of research in Japanese studies by offering graduate training that accommodates a range of academic concerns in the field. The programme will focus on historical and socio-cultural aspects of China-Japan relations from such disciplines as anthropology, history, popular culture, linguistic, philosophy, media studies, literature and international relations.
This programme is mainly for candidates who seek to study for a PhD degree as their ultimate goal.
MPhil Stream
Students are required:
1. To complete 12 units of lecture courses
2. To register for thesis research courses each term
3. To complete the MPhil thesis and pass the oral examination
Students with good academic performance in their first year of study can apply to be transferred to the PhD stream.
PhD Stream
Students are required:
1. To complete 12 units of lecture courses in the pre-candidacy stage
2. To register for thesis research courses each term
3. To pass the candidacy examination
4. To complete the PhD thesis and pass the oral examination
Please visit the Division's homepage for more information.
In addition to the general requirements of the Graduate School,
- applicants are required to submit a 5-page proposal written in English (including research topic, research summary, previous research regarding the topic, methodology employed and references). Applicants may be required to attend an interview.
- Japanese language proficiency requirements may vary according to the areas of study and the content of the research proposal and is to be decided by the Graduate Panel.
- applicants are encouraged to submit one to two academic writing sample(s) in English, Chinese or Japanese (if any).
Main Round: 1 December 2025
Clearing Round: 31 March 2026
For selection panel's full consideration, early applications by the main round deadline are strongly encouraged.
Applications in Clearing Round will only be considered subject to availability of places.
(for PhD programmes only)
Professor Matthew MEWHINNEY
Division of Japanese Studies (c/o Ms. Helen CHAN),
4/F, Leung Kau Kui Building,
The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong