Marshall University currently has two direct exchange programs with Japanese universities: Kansai Gaidai University in Osaka and Chukyo University in Nagoya. Both are run by Marshall’s Study Abroad Office.
Kentucky Institute for International Studies (See Dr. Rivas for more info)
The KIIS summer program in Japan and Korea offers students an opportunity to discover one of the world’s most sophisticated and dynamic nations. There are two options: a four-week program and a two-week program.
The four-week program begins in Nara, Japan’s first capital. From Nara, students travel by Shinkansen (Bullet Train) for a full week to Tokyo, Nikko, and Hiroshima. The program concludes with a week in Kyoto, the ancient capital until the 19th century and culturally the richest and historically most significant place in Japan. Graced by beautiful palaces, gardens, temples, and shrines, including the renowned Golden Pavilion, Kyoto is a site to behold.
The two-week program begins in Kyoto, the ancient capital until the 19th century and culturally the richest and historically most significant place in Japan. From Kyoto, students travel to Nagoya to meet and collaborate with students from Chukyo University. From Nagoya, students travel to Seoul, Korea to continue studying pop culture. Highlights of this study abroad include visits to Kyoto International Manga Museum and the Insadong area in Seoul to see Dongdaemun and Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Please note: No Japanese is required for the KIIS programs (all instruction is in English, with the exception of the optional, intermediate Japanese-language course). Prospective students should be aware that the Japan program is a bit more strenuous than some overseas programs. One should be prepared to 1) walk all-day-long during the program excursions and the full-week Shinkansen trip; 2) carry your own luggage during the full-week Shinkansen trip; 3) ride on crowded trains and buses without being able to sit; 4) walk on extremely crowded streets; and 4) protect oneself in the variable weather (from cold to hot and from rain to sunny) by always carrying an umbrella and/or water and a hat.
Kansai Gaidai offers a variety of courses, so most majors are able to partake in the program. Tuition and room and board are all paid to Marshall. For those wishing to delve into the language and culture of the area, homestay options are available in addition to dormitories and apartments. Students wishing to participate must be recommended by Drs. Anderson and Rivas.
Chukyo University in Japan is a tuition only exchange, room and board costs depend on your choice of residence. This particular exchange is for those seeking fluency and have achieved a higher level of difficulty in Japanese. Students wishing to participate must be recommended by Drs. Anderson and Rivas.
International Student Exchange Program
ISEP is a program provider that allows students to pay tuition and, most of the time, room and board to their home institution while studying in one of their member institutions. Currently, ISEP offers placement in 42 countries at over 300 universities. Students are able to use their financial aid on available semester, year, and summer programs.
For more information, please contact Dr. Rivas or:
Tyler Sharp
Program Coordinator, Sr. & DSO
Office of International Student Services
207 Welcome Center
Tell: 304-696-4304
Email: tyler.sharp@marshall.edu
