senmon

Senmon is a Japanese term, written 専門, that denotes a field of specialization or area of expertise. It is used to describe professional disciplines, domains of study, and vocational training, as well as the level of skill associated with a particular occupation.

The word is formed from 専 (sen), meaning exclusive or dedicated, and 門 (mon), meaning gate or domain. In combination, senmon conveys the idea of a specialized field requiring focused knowledge and practice. It appears in common phrases such as 専門家 (senmonka, specialist), 専門分野 (senmon bun’ya, field of specialization), and 専門職 (senmonshoku, professional occupation).

In education, senmon is central to Japan’s vocational and professional training system. 専門学校 (senmon gakkō), or professional schools, provide practical, industry-aligned instruction in fields like nursing, culinary arts, information technology, design, and cosmetology. Graduates may receive professional credentials such as 専門士 (senmonshi), a designation reflecting their specialization. These programs are typically oriented toward direct employment and practical competencies rather than purely academic research.

Usage of the term extends beyond formal education. In everyday language, senmon describes anyone’s area of expertise or the particular field a person works in, and it can be contrasted with broader or general studies. While universities also offer specialized programs, senmon more often emphasizes vocational or applied knowledge tied to specific careers.

See also: 専門, 専門学校, 専門家, 専門職, 学科.