Program Site: Tokyo International University (TIU) campus, located in the suburb of Kawagoe, a 40-minute train ride north of Tokyo

Eligibility: Minimum 3.0 GPA and two semesters of college-level Japanese or the equivalent.

Description: Study abroad students take classes in TIU's Japan Studies Program. Visiting students have ample opportunity to mix with local students, as the campus is fairly small, with around 6,000 students. With a population of over 300,000, Kawagoe allows students enjoy a smaller scale city and slightly slower pace while having easy access to the hustle and bustle of Tokyo.

Academics: Students take one 8-unit Japanese class and area studies courses taught in English. The small size of the language classes (5-10 students) ensures ample individual attention and accelerated language acquisition. Recent area studies courses offered in English have included: The History of Modern Japan, Japanese Economic Development, Japanese Society, Japanese Film, Japanese Literature, Power in Japanese Politics and Society, and War and Memory in Modern Japan. In the spring semester, students with very advanced language skills can take regular TIU courses.

Course load and Credit: Students take 3 courses and may earn up to 16 units per semester.

Activities and Other Program Features: Each semester there is a long excursion to the Kansai region, where students visit cities such as Hiroshima and Kyoto and have the chance to stay in a traditional Japanese inn, or ryokan. Monthly outings are arranged the the JSP, such as making udon, making washi, picking mikan, and visiting museums and historical sites in the area. Students also have peer assistants and language partners throughout the semester and are encouraged to participate in school clubs and circles.

Accommodations: Students live with a Japanese host families in Kawagoe. All meals are provided except weekday lunches.

Dates: Fall, Spring, or Year. The Fall term runs from late August to mid-December, and the Spring term runs early April to late July.

Estimated Semester Cost:
Tuition..............................$7,595
Additional Expenses*.........$13,052
Total...............................$20,646

Cost Updated: 5/21/13
Text Updated: 7/11/12


*Additional expenses include estimated costs for airfare, room and board, books and supplies, health insurance, and personal expenses (which can vary greatly from student to student). USC financial aid, scholarships, and tuition remission may be applied to program costs. Please visit the Office of Overseas Studies for more detailed cost information.

Links:
Tokyo International University Japan Studies Program
USC student Garrett Sergeant's short films about life in Japan
Lonely Planet Japan