Education

UCO Expands Language Offerings with New Japanese Minor

UCO Expands Language Offerings with New Japanese Minor
Editorial
  • PublishedOctober 16, 2025

The University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) has introduced a new Japanese minor to its modern languages program. This addition reflects the university’s commitment to enhancing global learning opportunities and addressing the increasing interest among students in East Asian languages and cultures.

The Japanese minor comprises 18 credit hours and is designed to help students achieve intermediate-level proficiency in the language. Required courses include elementary Japanese I and II, intermediate Japanese, and specialized classes focusing on Japanese speaking and phonetics. Additionally, students can choose from electives that delve into cultural topics such as Japanese humanities and media.

“We are thrilled to introduce this new modern languages minor in Japanese,” said Sophia Clark, Ph.D., the non-major language coordinator for the Department of Modern Languages at UCO. “This program will not only help our students acquire Japanese language skills, but it will also provide them with a unique opportunity to experience Japanese culture. It opens doors to traveling, studying, and working abroad.”

The program encourages students to engage in cultural activities on campus. One highlight is the annual Japan study tour, which takes place each summer. This tour is offered through UCO’s Center for Global Competency in collaboration with the Department of Sociology, Gerontology, and Substance Abuse Studies.

Students interested in the Japanese minor can find more information by visiting the university’s website or by contacting Dr. Clark directly at [email protected] or by phone at 405-974-5845. This new program aims to prepare students for a globalized workforce and enrich their understanding of a significant cultural landscape.

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