Japan Center for Michigan Universities

  Japan

• All Other Areas: 
Hikone

Term: Academic Year, Fall, Spring, Summer 
Dates: Year round, semesters

Description: The Japan Center for Michigan Universities' (JCMU's) Academic Program in Japanese Language and Culture allows students to participate for one or two semesters, with the option of continuing into the summer. Intensive Japanese language is taught at four different levels, from beginning to advanced. No prior Japanese language study is necessary. Students must be in good standing and have at least a 2.5 GPA.

Japanese language courses normally involve 10 credits, covering a standard academic year's worth of material in one semester. Students are able to complete the equivalent of two academic levels of Japanese in one academic year at JCMU. Placement tests given at the beginning of the program are used to determine the appropriate level for each student.

Elective courses (taught in English) for the coming academic year are usually announced in December. The standard course Japanese Culture & Society is offered each semester and may be repeated for credit. Additional offerings regularly include Japanese Business & Economy, Environmental Sciences in Japan and courses in art, history and religion. Course are also offered at JCMU two exchange universities - Shiga University and The University of Shiga Prefecture. Distance learning, English as a Second Language, internships and independent study options are also available.

Highlights: The Japan Center for Michigan Universities (JCMU) study abroad program is a product of the strong sister-state relationship between the State of Michigan and Shiga Prefecture. It is located on the shore of Lake Biwa in the City of Hikone, Shiga Prefecture, Japan. Its programs are dedicated to building relationships between Japanese, Americans, and other nationalities through active learning and participation in language, culture, family life and society. JCMU has been welcoming students of all majors since 1989. Although all courses at JCMU are available for credit through Michigan State University and the other JCMU Consortium member institutions, students do not need to attend a member university to participate.

Qualifications: Internships are available for students who express interest and work closely with the on-sight Internship Coordinator and Resident Director at JCMU. Some Japanese language ability maybe be required.

Cost in US$: $8,730 per semester

Credit Available: yes

Experience Required: no

Participants Travel to Japan Independently Or in Groups

Typically Participants Work Independently Or in Groups

Scholarships are Available. - Numerous scholarships are available from a broad range of sources for study abroad in Japan. Specifically, students from the JCMU Consortium member institutions (see JCMU website for details).