Japan

A word of caution if you are contemplating a year in Japan Japanese prices are known to be the highest in the world. This is especially the case with big cities, where the College's partner universities are situated. In these areas both rent and food tend to cost more than in other parts of Japan. You would be well advised to understand the cost of these items, and to arrange to have adequate funds. Also, although knowledge of the language is not essential, it would be an advantage to be able to speak at least a little Japanese.

ICU is located in Mitaka City, a suburban community on the edge of metropolitan Tokyo. The University occupies a spacious wooded campus of some 150 acres, and has about 3,000 students. From ICU to the centre of Tokyo is about a 30 minute train ride.

ICU is an ecumenical university with a number of international exchange programmes, and each year has many visiting students from overseas. The university is particularly suitable for overseas student exchanges because of its high academic standards, the fact that some courses are taught in English, and because there is a high proportion of English speaking staff.

Website: www.icu.ac.jp

Keio University is located in Tokyo, founded in 1858 it is the oldest institution of higher education in Japan. Keio continues to emphasise the founding principles of independence, self respect and academic excellence.

The departments include: Chemistry, Economics, English, French Studies, German Studies, Japanese Literature, Mathematics, Physics, Psychology.

Website: www.keio.ac.ip

Kyoto University of Foreign Studies was founded in 1947 as the Kyoto School of Foreign Languages. Importance was placed on gaining international understanding based on goodwill between Japan and other countries of the world. With this in mind, the School was upgraded in 1950 to Kyoto Junior College of Foreign Languages, and in 1959 to the Kyoto University of Foreign Studies. Departments include English and American Studies, Spanish Studies, French Studies, German Studies, Brazilian-Portuguese Studies, Chinese Studies, and Japanese Studies.

The university's motto "Pax Mundi per Linguas" (World Peace Through Languages) is mirrored in the curriculum, which stresses the building of character and strengthening of every potential through the medium of foreign language learning.

Website: www.kufs.ac.jp

Waseda University in Tokyo was founded in 1882 and is one of the most prestigious universities in Japan. Its mission statement includes the purposes of independent learning, the practical application of knowledge, and the promotion of good citizenship. Departments include: politics, economics, philosophy, law, literature, history, education, Japanese, social studies, sciences, commerce, engineering, health sciences. Languages of instruction include Japanese and English.

Website: www.waseda.ac.jp