OverviewRitsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU) offers an intensive 8-week Japanese Language Program which includes English-taught academic courses in Asia Pacific Studies and Business. It also includes cultural activities aimed to expand students knowledge of Japanese and Asia Pacific cultures while deepening intercultural understanding.
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
- Optional tours and activities (additional fee)
Want to learn more about study abroad in Japan?
AcademicsThe APU Gateway program is primarily an 8-week intensive Japanese language learning program with the addition of a range of English-taught subjects for those who want to compliment their language program with other study. The Japanese language program includes twelve 95-minute classes per week (beginner to intermediate levels available). The language program is very demanding and past participants have found it challenging to balance other subjects with the requirements of the language program.
AsiaLearn 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:
- Comparative Societies and Cultures
- International Governance
- Environmental Resource Policy
- Sustainable Development
Specialized fields in International Management include:
- Marketing and Corporate Strategy
- Accounting and Finance
- International Business
- Comparative Management
- New Business and Innovation
Course Catalog
View a list of courses that are generally offered during the APU Gateway Summer Program. 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.About APURitsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU) opened in April 2000 based on a vision of freedom, peace and humanity, mutual international understanding, and the future shape of the Asia Pacific region. Currently, there are over 6,000 students, almost half of whom are from 100 nations and regions outside Japan. APU offers a dual language education in Japanese and English, with most academic subjects given in both languages. This bilingual education system means no Japanese language experience is required for admission.
APU’s international student body and teaching faculty are dedicated to fostering greater understanding of the Asia Pacific region among the peoples of the world, continuing to attract attention as the standard bearer of international education in Japan.
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.
About JapanJapan 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. Fees| Program Fees | $6,340.00 | | 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 SemesterThe above fees are for the Summer 2010 term. Fees are subject to change. Dates| All dates are provided by each university and are subject to change. AsiaLearn 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 2011 - Summer | Application Deadline: February 15, 2011
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| Anticipated Departure | May 31, 2011 | | Start Date | June 1, 2011 | | End Date | July 30, 2011 | | Mid Semester Break #1 | - | | Mid Semester Break #2 | - |
| 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 | - |
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.AsiaLearn Coordinator| Name: | Aaron Carlson | | Title: | Coordinator, Outreach and Student Services | | Department: | Semester or Year Abroad in Europe and Asia |
BIO:
Aaron handles study abroad admission and participant pre-trip services for the following programs: James Cook University - Singapore, Korea University (semester/year & summer), Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (semester/year & summer), Asia as the Global Future (summer), and Asian Perspective: Learn Mandarin and Uncover Southeast Asia (summer).
Aaron graduated with a B.S. in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism with an emphasis in Experiential Education, from the University of Utah. He took part in an adventure study program in Australia and New Zealand which opened his eyes to the world and pushed him to see as many different cultures as possible. Aaron’s previous experiences around the world, including running adventure programs in Australia, New Zealand and Fiji, have him constantly looking for the next adventure. He volunteers as the Executive Director of a local non-profit and loves to ride his bikes and ski pow. |
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