History
Take yourself to different places, times, and peoples. Understand who we are and how our past influences and shapes us.
Subjects
- History
- New Zealand Studies
- Text Technologies
Asian Languages and Cultures –
Study the cultures and languages of the world's biggest, most populous continent, Asia. Become a truly global citizen with the communication skills to bridge cultural and linguistic gaps.
More than half of humanity lives in Asia. It is home to many of the world’s most ancient civilisations as well as being at the cutting edge of modern technological development.
New Zealand does billions of dollars of trade with the region annually. And over the years we’ve welcomed millions of its citizens to our country—as tourists, business partners, students, and residents.
Studying Asian culture, languages, and literature at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington will captivate you and broaden your world view. It’s also a smart career move. In an increasingly globalised world, people who can bridge gaps with Asia are in demand.
Globally ranked
This programme is ranked in the top 200 universities worldwide in the QS World University Rankings 2024.
The QS World University Rankings is an annual global publication that gives overall rankings and subject rankings for more than 1,500 universities worldwide.
Start at your level
Whether you’re a total beginner or a practised speaker, you can find an Asian language course suited to you. If you have some prior experience, you could start with a more advanced course.
The Japanese programme here challenges me to push my limits with my Japanese language and cultural knowledge.
Full storyHowe Deng
Bachelor of Commerce student in Japanese and Public Policy
Top teachers
Your lecturers have studied, researched and taught all over the world. You’ll find them highly qualified and passionate, with fascinating research interests—from literary translation, Chinese cinema, and Japanese visual culture to the Korean underground music scene.
Studying Japanese language will open up a variety of career opportunities, adding value from a professional perspective as well as being an enriching experience personally.
Full storyDr Dennitza Gabrakova
Lecturer in Japanese
Amazing resources
Get tips from our language technology specialist, or learn using self-access language learning resources—both physical and digital—for over 80 languages.
Language plus Linguistics
If you’re also interested in the structure of language and how it’s used, check out the Modern Language Studies major. It’s a combination of foreign language and linguistics courses.
Seven
of New Zealand's top 10 trading partners are in the Asian region.
Study abroad
When borders open, experience Asia first hand. Complete part of your degree overseas on exchange, or do a special summer study abroad programme for language learners at our partner universities in China and Japan. You might even be eligible for a scholarship.
After you graduate
In New Zealand, people who understand Asia are needed in the business, tourism, and government sectors. You could become a translator, interpreter, marketer, business development professional, import/export manager, diplomat, or researcher. Teaching is another good option.
Wellington is a diverse city that embraces multiculturalism. Home to a host of Asian embassies and to ministries and businesses with strong ties to the Asia-Pacific region, it’s the perfect place to broaden your knowledge of Asian languages and cultures.
Life is full of adventure. Go explore!
Full storyWenwen Liu
Graduate, PhD in Chinese
Support for students
Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington is a welcoming place with great student support. There are all sorts of resources available to help you get the best out of your time at university.
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People