Technical Japanese Program
University of Washington
Department of Human Centered Design & Engineering

Business Japanese Online Program

photo composite: Photo composite of Seattle night time skyline, businessmen exchanging cards, urban Japan, and temple

Looking for a course teaching functional conversation skills?

Business Japanese Online (BJO) is a unique online language-learning program. Using cutting-edge technology, BJO teaches business Japanese and trains students in business and cultural etiquette, entirely over the Internet.

The course is suitable for students wanting to learn functional conversation skills and enhance basic grammar.  It is also recommended for anyone planning to study or work in Japan.  Two years of college-level Japanese or the equivalent is required.

The program consists of three quarters.  Each 3-credit class is independent, so students can begin any quarter.  Classes are open to both UW and non-UW students.


Why Study Business Japanese?

Advanced oral communication skills help:

  • Increase business opportunities with Japan
  • Make business with Japan more productive and profitable
  • Help earn respect from Japanese clients and peers
  • Build confidence in working with Japanese people
  • Build confidence to travel independently in Japan
  • Make job seekers more attractive to prospective employers who do business with Japan
  • Prepare students for study-abroad or an internship in Japan
What Students Say About BJO

"BJO accomplished exactly what I envisioned. I have moved forward towards my goal of fluency." --Lamar Small

"The class has a good balance of culture, grammar, and conversation strategy that will assist anyone who has studied Japanese in the classroom in gaining additional knowledge and practice in real Japanese business environment situations." --Lamar Small

Program Features

Upon completion of the course sequence, students have the skills that allow them to communicate effectively with their Japanese peers. Students learn to approach cross-cultural interactions with understanding and ease, enabling them to function more successfully in their business relationships.


Note: BJO is not offered this year.