College of Foreign Studies School of Japan Studies and Global Communication

Developing practical skills in both English and Japanese to foster the ability to connect Japan with the world through culture and education.

This school cultivates advanced skills in both English and Japanese, along with cultural, societal, and educational knowledge, enabling students to develop practical abilities suited to their personal aspirations. As the number of foreign workers in Japan increases, there is a growing demand for individuals who can support them in their workplaces and communities. At the same time, there is a shortage of Japanese language teachers as well as cultural ambassadors who can share Japanese traditional culture and pop culture with the world. In response to these social needs, this school fosters individuals who aim to become certified as registered Japanese language teachers or Japanese teachers, as well as those who will promote Japan’s appeal globally.

English

Developing high-level English proficiency

Small, proficiency-level classes help students develop the practical English skills needed in today’s global society by enhancing their four core language skills—listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
During their first and second years, students take English classes six times a week and can choose from a wide range of courses related to Japanese and Japanese language education such as Research in Linguistics, Introduction to Classical Chinese literature, and Japanese Language Pedagogy. Students will develop strong communication abilities and expertise in both English and Japanese, which will help them to succeed in our global society.

Professionals who can connect Japan with the world are highly valued by companies

As the number of foreign workers and their families increases in Japanese companies, there is a growing need for individuals who are able to support their integration into Japanese society. This school nurtures global professionals equipped with strong English and Japanese communication skills and a deep understanding of culture and society—qualities highly valued in business, education, and government sectors. Students develop the foundation to contribute to the internationalization of companies and local communities.

[Sharing the appeal of Japan with the world]

Students study a wide range of Japanese culture—from traditional arts to modern pop culture such as manga, anime, fashion, and music. By combining this cultural knowledge with advanced English proficiency, this school aims to cultivate professionals who can share the appeal of Japanese culture with the world.

Training Nationally Registered Japanese Language Teachers and Japanese teachers

Currently, there is a significant shortage of teachers qualified to teach Japanese to non-native speakers. In April 2024, a new national qualification of “Nationally Registered Japanese Language Teacher” was established. In response to this social need, this school serves as a certified training institution for registered Japanese language teachers, preparing future Japanese language teachers with both advanced English proficiency and specialized knowledge of Japanese. Through the school’s unique Global Liaison Study Abroad program, students take bachelor-level courses in English while also promoting Japanese language education and supporting Japanese learners. The school also plans to offer support programs for international students studying at the university and local residents learning Japanese.

Designated as a Nationally Registered Japanese Language Teacher Training Institution starting in 2025!
Nationally Registered Japanese Language Teacher Qualification

Junior High and High School Teaching License (Japanese) certification available

This school also offers Type 1 Junior High and High School Teaching License (Japanese) certification. We aim to nurture teachers who possess not only Japanese and English language proficiency but also the international mindset needed in classrooms that are becoming more global.

Japanese Language Internship Study Abroad—developing practical skills in prospective Japanese language teachers

The Japanese Language Internship Study Abroad program is offered to students who have completed the Japanese language teacher training course. After graduating from this school, participants study abroad for one to two years at a partner university offering Japanese language education, where they work as assistants in Japanese language classes. As compensation, they can attend courses at the host university to improve their language skills and deepen their cultural understanding—a unique and enriching study abroad experience.

Message
from Faculty

International and Japanese Culture

Mitsuhisa Ushima
Professor Mitsuhisa Ushima

International and Japanese Culture

This course explores various aspects of Japanese culture, society, and history using a cross-cultural comparison approach.

Each session focuses on a specific theme, allowing students to study a wide range of fields. By examining differences between the cultures, societies, and histories of Japan and other countries using a cross-cultural comparison approach, students develop intercultural understanding and a highly global mindset. Group work and presentations are also done to strengthen students’ ability to effectively share and explain Japan’s culture and society.

Message
from Faculty

Japanese Language Pedagogy A

Akimi Fukuike
Associate Professor Akimi Fukuike

Japanese Language Pedagogy A

In this course, students study the basics of Japanese language education, including the knowledge and mindset needed to teach Japanese for the acquisition of useful skills in the future.

Beginning with questions like “What is Japanese language education?” and “What is the role of a Japanese teacher?” a wide range of topics are covered, including syllabus design, various foreign language teaching methods, and how to address learner errors. While ideal for students aiming to become Japanese language teachers, the course also equips all students with essential skills for today’s multicultural society.