窪蹋勛圖厙

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Orange structure in the water in Hiroshima, Japan, with mountains and trees in the background.

By studying Japanese language and culture in Hiroshima, you will have a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Japan's rich heritage, gain proficiency in the Japanese language, and develop a deeper appreciation for global diversity and peace.

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Location

Hiroshima, Japan

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Term

Spring, Summer, Academic Year

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Housing

Residence Hall

Program Highlights

Studying Japanese language and culture in Hiroshima is not just about academic learning; it's a transformative experience that promotes personal growth and global understanding. You will develop valuable language skills, cultural competency, and cross-cultural communication abilities that prepare you for success in an increasingly interconnected world. Participate in an academic year or spring semester exchange at . Language courses are taught in Japanese and elective courses are taught in English with a focus on Japanese culture, history, and society. You also have the option of taking a short-term summer program where you can earn 3-4 credit hours of Japanese language. 


 

Program Contact Information

Molly Papay

Assistant Director, Education Abroad

Email: mpapay1@kent.edu

Office Phone: 330-672-3067

Important Dates

Application Deadlines

  • Spring 2025: September 15, 2024
  • Summer 2025: February 1, 2025
  • Academic Year 2025-2026: February 1, 2025
  • Spring 2026: September 15, 2025

Program Dates

Program dates vary each year based upon the host institution's academic calendar, but the following are general guidelines:

  • Academic Year: Early September - Early August
  • Spring: Late March - Early August
  • Summer: Month of July
Eligibility

Eligibility

  • Full-time, degree-seeking student at 窪蹋勛圖厙
  • Any major; Japanese minor preferred but not required
  • Minimum cumulative GPA: 2.5 or higher
  • Completion of Elementary Japanese II at minimum
Application Process

Students will be required to complete two applications:

  • an internal 窪蹋勛圖厙 Education Abroad application,
  • and a partner university application.

These quick steps will help walk you through the process.

1. Start an Education Abroad Application

When you click the "Apply Now" button (located towards the top and bottom of this page), you will be brought to the Education Abroad application system where you can view program costs and start an application. Be sure to submit your application before the deadline!

2. Wait for Acceptance

Once you have submitted your application, it will be reviewed by an Education Abroad Advisor. Applications are evaluated on a rolling basis. Please note that acceptance to the program by 窪蹋勛圖厙 does not serve as final approval. The host institution or program provider grants final approval for each applicant.

3. Complete the Host University Application

Once your Education Abroad application has been accepted, you will be nominated to the host university. You will complete the host universitys application and wait for official acceptance to the program. 

Academics

Academic Programs

Japanese Language Courses

The main academic focus of the Hiroshima Shudo University exchange program is on Japanese language practice and acquisition. Upon arrival, students will complete a language placement exam and will then have the opportunity to enroll in Japanese language courses taught at the elementary, intermediate, or advanced level.

It is crucial for students to have prior background knowledge of Japanese, as the language courses are taught in Japanese and are not intended for those with no prior knowledge. Students will enroll in four Japanese language courses each semester: Vocabulary and Expressions, Grammar, Reading and Writing, and Listening and Speaking. 

Multicultural Courses

There are three "Japan Studies" courses offered under the themes of Japanese economics, politics and folklore. Exchange students will also enroll in a variety of "Multicultural Project" courses that are taught in English or Japanese, and encourage cooperative learning between Japanese and international students from a variety of cultural backgrounds.

Courses taught in English cover the following themes:

  • Popular Music in Japanese Society;
  • Japanese Culture in Hospitality and Service;
  • Contemporary Issues in Japanese Society;
  • Images of Japan in Western Cinema.

Courses taught in Japanese cover the following themes:

  • Multicultural Understanding;
  • Regional Attractions;   
  • Rediscover Hiroshima;    
  • Japanese Language & Culture Seminar. 

Learn more about the Global Education Courses on.

Transferring Credits

Transfer Credits

With this program, students enroll in courses at a partner (host) institution. You will need to transfer the credits you earn abroad back to 窪蹋勛圖厙.

Upon successful completion of the program, the host institution will issue you an official transcript, which will be needed for the credit transfer process.

You must earn passing grades on the courses you take abroad for the credits to transfer. 

Prior to departure, students will meet with their academic advisor to complete a Transfer Course Planning (TCP) Form, which will outline the courses you plan to take while abroad and how the courses will transfer to 窪蹋勛圖厙. 

Some courses have already been pre-approved for transfer to 窪蹋勛圖厙 and can be viewed on the Transfer Credit Guide. Please note that this is only a guide and is NOT a comprehensive list of courses available at each partner institution.

Credit Approval

Prior to departure, it is your responsibility to meet with your academic advisor to discuss the courses you plan to take while abroad.

If a course needs to be evaluated for transfer, you are responsible for working with your education abroad advisor to obtain the syllabus and have it reviewed by 窪蹋勛圖厙 faculty. 

Location & Transportation

Hiroshima, Japan

Known as the International City of Peace & Culture, Hiroshima is located in the southwestern part of Japan's main island of Honshu. Hiroshima's central location in western Japan offers convenient access to other major cities and attractions, making it an ideal base for travel and exploration. Japans bullet train system is an easy, fast way to visit places all around the country. For example, Hiroshima is 4 hours from Tokyo, and other nearby cities are about 2 hours away by train such as Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe, as well as iconic landmarks like Mount Fuji and the historic temples of Nara.

As the site of the atomic bombing during World War II, Hiroshima holds significant historical importance. Studying in Hiroshima allows students to gain a firsthand understanding of the city's resilience, peace efforts, and commitment to promoting nuclear disarmament and global harmony. This historical perspective adds depth to the study of Japanese culture and society.

Hiroshima is steeped in rich history and cultural traditions. By living and studying in Hiroshima, students can immerse themselves in authentic Japanese culture, from traditional tea ceremonies and festivals to exploring historic sites such as Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, which contains the ruins of one of the only buildings left standing near ground level. This immersive experience provides a deeper understanding of Japan's heritage and values.

Nowadays, Hiroshima is a modern and safe city with a population of about 1.2 million people. Surrounded by parks and situated on the River Ota, students will also have the opportunity to stroll along the bay and waterfront or even head to the beach both of which are about 30 minutes away from the center of Hiroshima. You can also spend time visiting the formal Japanese garden Shukkei-en, Hiroshima Castle, Miyajima Island, and a fortress surrounded by a moat and a park.

Students who study abroad in Japan for a full academic year will have the opportunity to enjoy annual events, including those organized by Hiroshima Shudo University such as a one-day bus trip in October, a festive Winter Party, and the International Forum in December.

Campus Information

Hiroshima Shudo University is located in Hiroshima, nestled amongst mountains and rivers, but also nearby to the bustling downtown. Everything is within walking distance from academic buildings, dormitories, and cafeterias to sports and recreation facilities. Public transit is easily accessible from campus.

Hiroshima Shudo University hosts approximately 150 international students from all over the world who are learning Japanese language and culture while also studying in their respective faculties. 

Transportation

Airports

Hiroshima Airport (HIJ) is located 40 minutes from campus by bus to the Nakasuji Astram line, then 21 minutes from the Nakasuji Astram line to Koikikoenmae Astram line.

Many students will fly from the U.S. to Tokyo - the two major airports in Tokyo are Narita (NRT) and Haneda (HND). Then you can take a short flight from Tokyo to Hiroshima. Alternatively, you can take the bullet train for a 4-hour journey between Tokyo and Hiroshima.

Local Transit

Bus and rail transportation are easily accessible from campus to many local destinations and other cities in Japan.

Housing & Meals

Semester Accommodations

Students have the option of staying in the residence hall called the , where they will have a single room with a shared kitchen, dining, and laundry facilities. I-House residents are encouraged to participate in fun hall activities and get to know their neighbors. Students pay monthly rent and utilities to live in the i-House.

Summer Accommodations

Students will stay at the Seminar House located on the HSU Campus. You will share one bedroom with one other program participant. You also have access to shared facilities such as a kitchen, lounge, toilets, and shower facilities. Breakfast is provided on weekday mornings only; students will be responsible for purchasing all lunches and dinners plus breakfasts on the weekends. 

Financial Aid & Scholarships
Health & Safety

Pre-Departure Orientation

Prior to your study abroad experience, you will participate in a mandatory pre-departure orientation hosted by the Office of Global Education. During this orientation, you will be provided with information including but not limited to:

  • international travel procedures;
  • in-country resources;
  • health and safety resources and information;
  • culture shock and resources to help prepare for living abroad.

All students are encouraged to register with the prior to departure.

You can also review a wide variety of resources weve pulled together for you on our Before You Go page.

Country Profile

You can learn more about your destination(s), including travel advisories, through the .

In addition, we encourage you to visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) travel page for for traveling to your destination(s).

If vaccinations or medications are needed according to the CDC, you should make arrangements for appointments with your healthcare provider or the DeWeese Health Center as soon as possible. Appointment openings at the DeWeese Health Center are limited and vaccines may need to be ordered, which takes time. Please note that not all immunizations are available at the DeWeese Health Center. 

Visa Information

A visa is a document required by many countries, in addition to your passport, that allows you to enter the country for a certain purpose (whether thats to stay, transit, or exit). Essentially, it is the country's government giving you legal permission to enter their country to travel, study, work, etc.

Please note, it is solely the responsibility of the student to: 

  • determine the entry, transit, and stay requirements for the country or countries to which they will travel,
  • and to apply for any necessary visas, stay permits, or any other immigration requirements of the host nation(s).

It is also the responsibility of the student to:

  • verify the correct documentation required to apply for the required visa(s), 
  • apply for the visa(s) early enough to ensure there is enough processing time,
  • and pay any fees associated with obtaining the visa(s).

窪蹋勛圖厙's Office of Global Education is available to provide general guidance regarding student visa requirements and procedures; however, each student who travels abroad is expected to manage their own legal obligations regarding international travel.

It is strongly recommended by the Office of Global Education that you carefully review the appropriate consulate or embassy website for the nation(s) you plan to visit in order to determine current entry/study/exit visa requirements.

Fact Sheet

Your host, Hiroshima Shudo University, has prepared an overview document for you to download and keep as a handy reference.

Costs and Funding

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Costs for the program will differ for every student. You can use our Cost Calculator to get an estimate of what you might expect for your program.

We also encourage you to meet with your Education Abroad Advisor and reach out to Financial Aid the Financial, Billing and Enrollment Center to see how your aid may apply to an international program.

 

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