OverviewGlobaLinks Learning Abroad, formerly known as AsiaLearn, offers a summer program at Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU). This is an intensive 8-week Japanese Language Program which includes cultural activities aimed to expand student’s knowledge of Japanese and Asia Pacific cultures while deepening intercultural understanding. It also includes English-taught academic courses in Asia Pacific Studies and International Management.
The program features:
- Intensive beginner’s to intermediate Japanese language courses (Twelve 95-minute classes per week.)
- Academic courses in English (up to two courses)
- APU Buddies (participants paired with local students)
- Activities on and off campus such as tea ceremony and weekend homestay
- Overnight field trip to Nagasaki
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Want to learn more about study abroad in Japan?
LocationJapan is an island country separated from the east coast of Asia bythe Sea of Japan. It is approximately the size of Montana. Japan’s four main islands are Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku. Most of the islands are mountainous, many volcanic; for example, Japan’s highest peak, Mount Fuji, is a volcano.
Japan has the world’s tenth largest population, with about 128 million people. The Greater Tokyo Area, which includes the capital city of Tokyo and several surrounding prefectures, is the largest metropolitan area in the world, with over 30 million residents.
Much of Japan’s history has contributed to its homogeneous society. The Japanese highly value group identity and social harmony, even above individual expression. Confucian and Buddhist influences also contribute to this cultural trend. The people are also said to be remarkably conscientious, meticulous, industrious, honest, and technically-skilled. Since WWII, the population has become increasingly urban, with only 25% of the population still living in the rural mountains and rugged coastlines.
While modern Japan has been heavily influenced by other countries, many traditional elements of the culture can still be experienced in Japan. While studying abroad in Japan, you’ll enjoy the exciting blend of ancient culture and modern society. For more information on Japan, visit the Destinations section.
APU’s campus is located on a hill with stunning views over the township of Beppu and its picturesque bay. Beppu, famous as Japan’s leading hot spring resort, is proud of its small-town atmosphere and tradition of hospitality to visitors and new residents from around the world.
Studying abroad in Beppu rather than a larger city will allow you to more fully immerse yourself in the local culture. Academic HighlightsThe APU Gateway program is an 8-week intensive Japanese language learning program. The Japanese language program includes twelve 95-minute classes per week (beginner to intermediate levels available). In addition, students have the option to take one or two academic courses in English. Official APU transcripts will be issues for these courses.
**The language program is very demanding and past participants have found it challenging to balance other subjects with the requirements of the language program.
GlobaLinks Learning Abroad participants who elect to take other English-taught subjects in combination with Japanese language instruction may take 1 or 2 additional subjects. The language program is awarded 6 credits on the APU academic system which will likely transfer as a 9 credit class at your home university. The English-taught subjects are awarded 2 credit on the APU academic system which will likely transfer as a 3 credit class at your home university. Be sure to clarify the conversion of credit with your home university academic advisor during the course pre-approval process.
The two colleges from which courses are available at APU are Asia Pacific Studies (APS) and International Management (APM).
Studies in Asia Pacific Studies are founded on the following themes:
- Environment and Development
- Hospitality and Tourism
- International Relations and Peace Studies
- Culture, Society, and Media
Specialized fields in International Management include:
- Marketing
- Accounting and Finance
- Strategic Management and Organization
- Innovation and Economics
HousingAll study abroad students are guaranteed a place in AP House, the on-campus halls of residence. Modern single and shared rooms are well equipped with a refrigerator, air conditioning, bedding, and telephone. Japanese-style rooms and a communal Japanese-style bath are located on the ground floor (showers are available on each floor). Students have the option of cooking in the hall’s communal kitchens, eating at the cafeteria on campus, or at nearby restaurants. Scholarships AvailableGlobaLinks Learning Abroad strives to offer the most reasonable fees on abroad to Asia. To further enhance the affordability of the semester/year study abroad programs, we encourage you to apply for scholarships through all available scholarship sources. Learn more about our scholarship opportunities. Special Programs/ExcursionsDuring the Summer APU Gateway Program students' have the opportunity to participate in special excursions, activities, and programs, such as:
- APU Buddies (be paired up with local students upon arrival)
- Scavenger hunt around Beppu with your buddy
- Learn how to conduct a traditional tea ceremony
- Participate in a weekend homestay with a Japanese family
- Overnight field trip to Nagasaki
- Other optional tours and activities (additional fee)
*Excursions, activities, and programs are subject to change. Get Involved AbroadCommunity Involvement
We understand that it can be difficult to find time during a short summer program to really become involved with the community however we challange you to at least try and discover where the experience may take you. It's an awesome way to meet locals, experience the true Japanese culture, and create long lasting memories. From volunteering to festival-going, we challenge you to make the most of your international experience... See a how to live like a local and become involved with community activities available in Japan or discover your own upon arrival!
Enhance your ExperienceGlobal Citizens Development Modules
 The new Global Citizen Development modules are online learning components designed to help you explore your study abroad destination and experience at a whole new level. These modules are not mandatory, however we strongly encourage your participation as they will introduce you to the opportunities and challenges you may encounter when participating in a study abroad program, as well as expose you to cultural insights and knowledge about your host country to help make your program abroad even more successful and fulfilling. Through the 3 modules, you will refine your skills in cross-cultural observation, adaptation, and communication.
Learn the Local Language!
Although English is a common language in many of GlobaLinks Learning Abroad’s program destinations, we recognize the need for basic communication in the host language. Therefore, all students will receive:
- LiveMocha - Prior to departure you will receive information and instruction for, LiveMocha, an online language learning program to help you learn your host language. Learn at varying levels and at your own speed. Get started now!
- Lonely Planet Guide & Phrase Book - For both language learning and culture/history/country specific inforamton you will receive a Lonely Planet Guide and Phase book before departure, which will allow you to start planning your adventures and learning how to communicate with locals.
- Additional Language Resources - To even further your language skill take a look at some of these optional language learning tools.
Being Prepared for your Time Abroad
GlobaLinks Learning Abroad is there to help you through every step of the study abroad process! This includes making sure you are prepared for your time abroad! Due to the short length of the summer programs we are not able to offer our renowned multi-day orientation known as the Bridging Cultures Program. However we do still offer services that are tailored to helping you have the best experience possible. These include one-on-one pre-departure advising and group webinars prior your departure. The goal of the webinar is to help answer any final questions you may have and to fully prepare you for a summer of personal, social, academic, cultural, and professional Discovery! Course CatalogTo determine if the classes you need are available at this university, select ‘Courses/Subjects’ to view the specific course options.
SlideshowView photos of Beppu, Japan and Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University:
Fees| Program Fees | $7,000.00 | | Housing | | Without Meals | Housing included in program fee |
Fee IncludesProgram Fees are in US dollars and includes tuition, accommodation, insurance, overnight field trip to Nagasaki, other program activities, official transcript, overseas health coverage, introductory survival language training, and pre-trip services such as: orientation materials, visa-processing service and fee, personal advising, subject selections, liaison with your home university, credit transfer assistance, financial aid services, and alumni support. Fee AdviceThe above fees are for the Summer 2010 term. Fees are subject to change. Dates| Should you receive an offer, your offer letter will provide you with the most up to date university start dates. Programs in Asia will attempt to provide you with the most up-to-date information as we receive it. Be sure to confirm dates before finalizing any travel plans. | |
| Summer 2012 - Summer | Application Deadline: February 15, 2012
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| Anticipated Departure | May 31, 2012 | | Start Date | June 1, 2012 | | End Date | July 30, 2012 | | Mid Semester Break #1 | - | | Mid Semester Break #2 | - |
| Summer 2013 - Summer | Application Deadline: February 15, 2013
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| Anticipated Departure | May 31, 2013 | | Start Date | June 1, 2013 | | End Date | July 30, 2013 | | Mid Semester Break #1 | - | | Mid Semester Break #2 | - |
Entry RequirementsApplicants must have the required GPA and have completed at least the equivalent of one year of full-time study at the university/college level.
Students with a lower GPA than the requirement may be considered on a case by case basis. Please contact our office for more information.
Required GPA: 2.50
Free ExcursionAPU provides a weekend overnight field trip to Nagasaki during the 8-week summer program. Details provided upon acceptance to the program.
Round trip transportation to Nagasaki city (bus), hotel accommodation, dinner and breakfast, and the entrance fees to several tourist sites and museums are all included.Programs in Asia Coordinator| Name: | Krista Lane | | Title: | Coordinator, Outreach and Student Services | | Department: | Asia Programs Team |
BIO:
Krista holds an M.A. in Political Science with a B.A. in Political Science and Spanish, and a minor in International Relations. She studied abroad her junior year of college in Sevilla, Spain, and having traveled internationally since an early age, seeks every opportunity to go to new destinations. Having previously worked as a university advisor in multiple capacities, Krista has developed a passion for international education and looks forward to helping students discover their own journey.
Other travels include: Costa Rica, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, Germany, Switzerland, Ireland, England, Italy, Austria, Singapore, Laos, and Vietnam. |
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