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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 2025 Deadline: February 14, 2025

Program Details

  • Length: ~3 weeks (early May through late May; See Academic Calendar)
  • Credits: 3
  • 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.

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 2025

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

Out-of-Pocket Costs (estimated)

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