International Programs

Doshisha University (同志社大学)

Click here for Doshisha's electronic brochure (.pdf).

Semester at Sea is a pioneer and leader in global, comparative education—a form of international study that focuses on surveying the world's peoples, patterns, cultures, and traditions. Global, comparative education is the element that distinguishes Semester at Sea from other study abroad programs. Operating a traveling shipboard campus allows diverse learning communities to live and learn in close quarters as they travel the world, and SAS provides opportunities for intensive engagement, reflection, interaction, and exchange that simply aren't available with other programs. Field-based, experiential learning is a vital component of Semester at Sea. The ship becomes a campus where participants study in a traditional setting, while the world is transformed into an academic laboratory where students earn 20% of their grade. Field Labs are designed and led by a faculty member who has expertise in a particular culture, location, or subject matter. These in-port labs enhance and explore course content. SAS directed trips are led by staff or faculty. May be recommended by a faculty member as an excellent complement to a student's syllabus. Independent Practica are opportunities for a participant to conduct independent research. Requires faculty approval to count as fulfillment of field requirement. Semester at Sea is proud to be sponsored by the University of Virginia, one of the nation's most prestigious institutions of higher education. Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, the University sustains the ideal of developing leaders who are well-prepared to help shape the future of the nation.

CIEE Study Center at Sophia University (上智大学)

The Japanese Language and International Liberal Studies program at Waseda University (早稲田大学) offers students the opportunity to improve their Japanese language ability while at the same time completing a range of English language-based coursework. In addition to intensive Japanese language classes, students can choose from a wide variety of courses taught in English, including regionally-focused courses in history, economics, literature, communications and political science, as well as general courses in biology, mathematics and business. Students complete 6 hours per week of intensive Japanese language study and choose an additional 8 – 14 hours per week of subject area coursework.

Aoyama Gakuin University (AGU, 青山学院大学) is a mid-size comprehensive university located in Tokyo, with a total student population of about 20,000. AGU has two primary campuses; the main campus is located in the central business district of Shibuya, and a new satellite campus was recently opened in Sagamihara.

As Japan’s only university with its complete curriculum taught in English, Akita International University (AIU, 国際教養大学) creates a unique academic environment in which you can receive high-quality Japanese language instruction and, at the same time, complete advanced topical coursework in English.
AIU’s faculty is comprised of scholars and expert practitioners from around the world. The diverse backgrounds of the faculty, combined with their broad range of experience, state-of-the-art pedagogy, and commitment to fostering global awareness, provide the foundation for an outstanding learning environment. Class sizes of less than 10 students are not uncommon.
Given AIU’s small size, you will have many opportunities to participate in campus life. University clubs include many different sports, martial arts (Aikido, Kendo, Shorinji-Kempo), music, dance, broadcasting, and more. You may also participate in field trips and excursions. Business and economics students may visit local manufacturing plants, sake breweries and agricultural producers.
Culture courses may include visits to regional museums and local hot springs (onsen) as well as opportunities to watch local carpenters build thatched-roof huts. You may also have opportunities to visit local public schools to teach about your home culture.