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Teaching English in Japan

Learn the needs and characteristics of ESL students in Japan while exploring Japanese culture. Experience firsthand how English is taught in Japan at a variety of different levels and age groups while learning about TESOL methods.

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Summer 2024 Deadline: February 9, 2024 (applications opening soon)

Program Details

  • Length: ~4 weeks (May through early June; See Academic Calendar)
  • Credits: 6
  • Location(s): Hikone, Shiga Prefecture, Japan
  • Housing: JCMU Residence Hall
  • 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; No Japanese language study required

Program Description

  • (3 credits) TESOL Methods Course/Practicum: You will participate in a course focusing on national and international approaches to ESL teaching while observing various ESL classrooms and settings. Rather than merely studying about TESOL methods from a textbook though, you will have the opportunity to actually travel to and observe various English language classrooms both at JCMU and at local schools/institutions!
    • While taking this course, you will gain a deeper understanding of the characteristics and needs of ESL education in Japan, providing you with practical skills and knowledge for a career in TESOL. This experience will be especially useful if you are planning on teaching English in Japan on the JET program (or other similar teaching opportunities) in the future.
    • Upper-level TESOL students may be eligible to take a TESOL practicum course in lieu of the normal TESOL methods course, which will allow a more hand-on experience of teaching English in Japan.
  • (3 credits) Japanese Culture & Society Course: This course will present you with the opportunity to further explore the foundations of Japanese culture and society and how they shape the lives of the Japanese people, which will help you fully understand the similarities and differences in teaching methods that you notice in your TESOL methods course. Classroom lectures will be enhanced with guest lectures, site visits, and Japanese cultural demonstrations and activities.

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. 

Download PDF Cost Sheet

Summer 2023

  • Program & Housing Fee (tuition, course materials, health insurance, housing): 

Out-of-Pocket Costs (estimated)

  • Airfare: $2,800
  • Food: $850
  • Additional Costs: $300
  • Ground Transportation: $250