Kansai Gaidai University - Hirakata, Japan

Advisor/Important notes:

Hybrid/Group Programs offer students the ability to learn alongside other global study students from US institutions at international study centers. Some hybrid/group programs allow students to enroll in a couple of courses at local universities, but a majority of these programs are taught by local faculty and professionals through an affiliated study abroad provider at their program’s academic center. These programs frequently offer courses that relate to the program location including language and culture classes, and they tend to focus less on STEM courses. On a vast majority of hybrid/group programs, students live with host families/homestays, providing them a great connection to the local culture.
In a smaller city in Japan (Hirakata City, not too far away from Osaka).
Students take courses primarily out of their Asian Studies Program, which focuses largely on specifically Asian/Japanese topics, including history, philosophy, religion, arts (studio and history) and popular culture. They offer studio art courses (including Ceramics and Manga).
Students can choose to stay in Japanese-style dorm rooms or with homestays. Usually 20-40 minute commutes from homestays.
Students who go during the spring semester have the opportunity to extend their program into the summer and participate in an internship. Works well for business, education, or political science students.

Who to contact:

Program Highlights:

The special feature of the program is to provide international students with a means of exploring Japan and Asian studies through classroom instruction and interaction with local people. Japanese language courses offered from introductory to advanced levels, and thus previous Japanese language is not required. A wide variety of offerings relevant to Japan and Asia, taught by experienced faculty members in English, will provide new perspectives for participants and inspire their intellectual growth.
Japanese language courses offered from beginning to advanced levels make it possible to accommodate students at any level.
Elective courses cover a wide range of areas so that students are able to develop deeper insight into their areas of interest. More than 60 courses, all taught in English, are available.
Studio art courses such as Manga Drawing, Koto (Japanese Harp) and Ceramics add unique and hands-on study opportunities.
Some courses are supplemented by field trips, which can be done only at the study abroad site. What is taught in classrooms can be put into real context by visiting significant sites and interacting with local people.