Program Description
Kansai Gaidai is a private, nonprofit institution composed of Kansai Gaidai University, (four-year program), Kansai Gaidai College (two-year program), the Graduate School, and the Asian Studies Program.
Established in 1972, the Asian Studies Program today annually welcomes over 600 competitively selected students who represent about 40 countries and regions.
The raison d’être of the program is to provide international students with a means of exploring Japan and Asian studies through classroom instruction and interaction with Japanese people. Japanese language courses range from the introductory through the advanced levels. Previous Japanese language training is not required.
A variety of course offerings relevant to Japan and Asia, taught by experienced faculty members, will provide new perspectives for participants and inspire their intellectual and personal growth. One of the special advantages of studying in our program is the fact that all courses, except for Japanese language courses, are conducted in English.
Efficient language training with the latest innovations in linguistic instruction, fully equipped language laboratories, friendship programs with Japanese students, as well as the heart-warming home stay program, will all contribute to the rapid development of participants’ language proficiency and pragmatic understanding of the Japanese culture.
Typically, our student body is equally balanced between males and females. About 90% of the total exchange program participants are from our affiliated institutions worldwide, and the remaining 10% enroll independently.
Firmly believing that Japan and Asia will continue to be key players throughout the 21 century, the program encourages students to tackle new challenges and take advantage of various opportunities available in Japan.
Accreditation
All the academic programs of Kansai Gaidai University are fully accredited by the Japanese Ministry of Education and Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, which is the sole accrediting agency in Japan.
Academics
The Curriculum of the Asian Studies Program is twofold; the rigorous Japanese language studies and courses in the Social Sciences, Humanities, and Business/Economics pertinent to Japan and Asia make it possible for participants to approach a wide array of study areas during their stay in Japan.
While Japanese language instruction plays a key role in our program, we are by no means a language-training institute. For this reason, the structure of the program may not necessarily accommodate the needs of those students whose primary interest lies solely on acquisition of the Japanese language. Since all courses in the Asian Studies Program, aside from those focusing on the Japanese language, are conducted in English, it is possible for students with no previous Japanese training to pursue an in-depth study of Japan and Asia.
Courses
Housing
Kansai Gaidai University offers its international students two types of
housing arrangements: homestay or dormitory. Homestay participation is strongly encouraged, for it is an excellent opportunity to acquire and enhance knowledge about the Japanese language and culture. Experience in living with a Japanese family can be the highlight of your stay in Japan.
Location
Kansai Gaidai's two campuses (Nakamiya and Hotani) are located in Hirakata city (pop.: 405,000) near Osaka city, the second largest business metropolis next to Tokyo. Hirakata is also close to Kyoto and Nara, both of which are synonymous with "Japan's rich tradition." This Geographic advantage provides students with easy access to the centers of Osaka and Kyoto in little over half an hour by train.
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