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Semester Japanese Language & Culture

Enjoy Japanese language study (offered from beginner to advanced) while taking elective courses related to Japanese culture, with specialized tracks in Advanced Japanese with an internship, Politics & Diplomacy, or TESOL. Apply to attend for a fall semester, spring semester, or a full academic year.

Apply  |  Schedule Advising  |  Program Costs  |  Program Brochure (PDF)

Spring 2027 Applications Deadline: September 28, 2026 (Extended Deadline)

Fall 2027 / AY 2027-28 Application Deadline: March 2027 (Applications Opening Soon)

Program Details

  • Length: (See Academic Calendar for upcoming dates)
    • Fall Semester: ~15 weeks (early September through mid-December) 
    • Spring Semester: ~15 weeks (early January through mid-/late April)
    • Academic Year: ~33 weeks (early September through mid-/late April with continuous housing between fall and spring semesters)
  • Credits: 13-15 credits per semester (i.e., 26-30 credits for a full academic year)
  • Location(s): Hikone, Shiga Prefecture, Japan
  • Housing: JCMU Residence Hall (with option to apply for a homestay)
  • Eligibility: Min. GPA of 2.5 (cumulative); Completion of at least two semesters of college-level undergraduate enrollment before participation (see Eligibility page for more details)
  • Prerequisites: None - Open to all majors; Previous Japanese language study is not required.

Program Description

  • (3-6 credits, depending on level) of Japanese language courses offered in four levels (beginner to advanced): Daily instruction addresses listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Placement is based on assessment activities held at the beginning of the program after arrival.
  • (6+ credits) Elective courses: Each course explores an aspect of Japan, such as its history, religions, politics, arts, economy and more. Course offerings vary by semester. Specialized elective tracks include:
    • Advanced Japanese + Internship: Students take a Pre-professional Business Japanese course (3 cr.) and participate in an internship with a local company or organization as part of a Japanese Field Work Experience course (2 cr. of lecture/discussion/reflection and 2 cr. of field work consisting of 90 hours); Open to students who qualify to study advanced level Japanese.
    • Japanese Politics & Diplomacy: Students explore Japan's political structure, governance, and diplomatic strategies in the global arena through two courses (6+ credits).
    • Teaching English in Japan (TESOL): Student take a TESOL Methodologies course (3 cr.) followed by a TESOL Practicum Experience (3 cr.) to gain first-hand experience in an English language classroom in Japan.
  • (3 credits) JCMU Experience course: The study abroad experience can be confusing and stressful for anyone. Unpack your study abroad experience with your fellow students and JCMU staff/faculty while also setting goals for your time in Japan. The course also integrates an exploration of Japanese culture and arts through culture classes, field trips, and more.
  • Opportunities to engage with the community: Practice Japanese with conversation partners, apply to stay with a host family, and participate in activities on JCMU campus, local university campuses, and beyond.

Program Costs

Review the Know Your Costs page for more details about the billable and estimated out-of-pocket costs listed below. Information about JCMU-specific and external funding opportunities can be found on our Scholarships page. 

Fall 2026 / Spring 2027

  • Program Fee (tuition, course materials, health insurance): 
  • Housing Fee (JCMU Residence Hall and/or homestay, if available):
    • All Students: $2,800 (per semester)
  • Activity Fees (only apply if participating in that elective track):
    • Politics & Diplomacy Track (Fall): $1,500
    • TESOL Track (Spring): $1,000

Out-of-Pocket Costs (estimated)

  • Airfare: $2,500
  • Food: $3,050 (per semester)
  • Additional Costs: $800 (per semester)
  • Ground Transportation: $150

Academic Year 2026-27

  • Program Fee (tuition, course materials, health insurance): 
  • Housing Fee (JCMU Residence Hall and/or homestay, if available):
    • All Students: $5,600
  • Activity Fees (only apply if participating in that elective track):
    • Politics & Diplomacy Track (Fall): $1,500
    • TESOL Track (Spring): $1,000

Out-of-Pocket Costs (estimated)

  • Airfare: $2,500
  • Food: $6,450
  • Additional Costs: $1,650
  • Ground Transportation: $150