Program Terms:
Spring Semester & Academic Year
Overview:
With its roots dating from 1639, Ryukoku University is one of the oldest Universities in Japan. Founded on the principles of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, the University today has seven faculties ranging from the humanities to the natural sciences. Boasting a student population of approximately 20,000 spread over three unique, attractive and accessible campuses in the ancient capital of Kyoto and neighboring Shiga, the university continues to preserve the past while at the same time press the boundaries of knowledge into the future.
Academic Details:
Exchange students will be enrolled in the specially-designed Japanese Experience Program in Kyoto (JEP Kyoto). This program encourages the development of practical Japanese language skills, with each language class based on a topic. Language classes available from beginner to advanced levels are available to cater to a wide range of abilities. A selection of elective courses taught in Japanese and English are also available.
Exchange students may opt to register for classes in Ryukoku’s regular Faculties and Graduate Schools if they meet the language requirement and are accepted by the instructor. The decision regarding which Japanese classes you can register for is based on the results of your Japanese language placement test. Please take into careful consideration the Faculty/Graduate school you select when filling out your application form. Please also note that there are some classes that exchange students cannot register for, such as those with a limit on the number of students or lessons listed as “zemi.” Please also be aware that most of the Faculty classes are conducted in Japanese.
All Exchange Students will be assigned an Academic Advisor who is a teacher or faculty member of Ryukoku University. Please consult your Academic Advisor about the classes you would like to register for before you actually do so. The requirements to maintain an Exchange Student’s status in Japan is a minimum registration of 16 credits per semester. (Source: Ryukoku University Guide for Exchange Students)
Housing Details:
Exchange Students are placed in one of four university dormitories, namely Ryukoku International House, Tomoiki International House, Omiya-so, and Mukaijima Gakusei Center. There are Japanese student tutors in the dormitories to help you during your stay in Ryukoku University (with the exception of Mukaijima Gakusei Center). Make sure to fill out the application form for the dormitory before the deadline. Bedding is also available for rental. Bedding Rental includes the supply and regular cleaning of futons (mattress and quilt), sheets, pillow and pillowcase.
Eligibility:
- Sophomore standing
- 2.5 cumulative GPA
Japanese and Asian Studies (JAS) Program: open to undergraduate students in all majors
Japanese Culture and Language Program (JCLP): open to undergraduate students in all majors
Regular Ryukoku University faculties: open to undergraduate and graduate students in all majors who have advanced proficiency in Japanese
