Kawagoe, Japan

Overview

This program grew out of a special sister school relationship between Willamette University and Tokyo International University. Students study at TIU's Japan Studies Program (JSP). The optional Kyoto/Hiroshima Excursion is included for Willamette students. Watch this video (141 MB, 14 minutes) to learn more about the program through JSP 2006-2007 alumna Becca Scofield.

Academics

This program is available to students with any level of Japanese language abilities. Beginning to Advanced Japanese classes are taught at JSP. While at the JSP, students study Japanese language and may choose from classes in Japanese art, culture, politics, history, and economics taught in English to complement Japanese language classes. At the JSP class sizes are small to assure individual attention. Read about the courses on the JSP website. All students (including low-level students) must take a Japanese course the semester prior to studying abroad, if this is not possible due to academic restrictions please contact an OIE advisor to discuss options.

Housing

Students live with host families in Kawagoe where they eat breakfast, dinner and all weekend meals.

Dates

The JSP program is available during either fall semester, spring semester or the full academic year. The fall semester starts late August and ends mid December; spring semester starts in late February and ends late May.

Cost

Willamette tuition plus a program fee equivalent to Willamette’s Room and Board Plan B which includes room and board, excursions, health insurance and on-site support. Each student receives a $200 monthly stipend to assist with transportation and lunch costs.

Other Information

The Japanese Consular Office in New York allocates one or two full academic year JASSO scholarships to Willamette University each year. Eligible Willamette students are nominated by the Japanese Department for the scholarship. Learn more about this scholarship JASSO recipients are exempt from the $200 stipend.

Salem, Oregon and Kawagoe, Japan are sister cities.

Pre-departure Resources

Japan Studies Program (JSP)
JSP program schedule
Courses at JSP
JSP FAQ
JSP Application Process (do not complete this application until instructed by the OIE)
Willamette World News: Japan
Japan-American Society of Oregon
News
Local Weather
Embassy of Japan: historical and government information
CIA World Factbook
Lonely Planet Guide