Japan » Akita (AIU) » Introduction to Akita

Experience Japan on a more personal level

Set in the wooded mountains of northern Honshu, away from the dense crowds of larger Japanese cities, Akita Prefecture resembles Oregon in many ways. The Oregon University System’s partner, Akita International University (AIU), is ranked as one of the top five public universities in Japan. The curriculum at AIU offers an accessible and exceptional introduction to Japan. The intimate and highly personalized study program at AIU mirrors Akita’s small town atmosphere.

While in Akita, you will have the opportunity to take basic to advanced courses in Japanese language as well as English language based coursework in Japanese Studies, International Business, and Global Studies. AIU’s Global Studies program also offers a Chinese Studies track, ideal for students seeking to build regional expertise on East Asia.

Highlights

• Small Classes: A personalized introduction to Japan at one of the top five public universities in Japan
• Hybrid Program: Combine language classes with topical coursework taught in English
• Get Involved: Live on campus and make friends from across Japan and around the world
• Experience: Akita’s range of student clubs and outdoor activities

The Oregon University System International Programs are cooperative programs to which all students in public universities in Oregon and select private partner universities have access. The programs are predominately reciprocal exchanges that not only send students abroad, but also bring students to Oregon campuses. It is through these direct relationships that students and faculty connect with partner institutions abroad and bring diversity to Oregon universities.

Akita International University/Oregon University System
Project Based Learning Program on Resilient Rural Communities

June 17 – July 31, 2013

Program in Oregon and Akita Prefecture, Japan

In summer of 2013, Oregon students have a unique opportunity to join Japanese peers and Akita/OSU faculty in a cross-cultural program sponsored by a grant from the Japanese Ministry of Education.  Focusing on the opportunities and challenges that affect rural communities in both countries, students will work in a cohort to examine such issues as aging populations and elder care, cultural heritage and tourism, and natural resource management.  Students will spend four weeks together in Oregon, starting on the OSU campus in Corvallis, and moving to Wallowa County in Eastern Oregon.  From there, they will travel to the Akita International University campus and then to rural Akita Prefecture in Japan to experience first-hand how the same issues impact communities in Japan.  Course work will involve research and preparation of information that will serve both areas.  This 12 credit course is open to students from all majors.

Because of the grant funding which covers airfare, lodging and transportation for this project, it is extremely affordable.  Students are required to take a spring term course, “Introduction to Japanese Culture and Society”, at OSU prior to the start of the program.  As this is a pilot program developed by OSU faculty, it is currently open only to Oregon State University students; in future years, students from all OUS institutions will be welcome to participate.   Please click on this link for more information about the program. 

The application deadline is Friday, March 8.  To apply, click on the Apply button on this page, and select “Japan: Akita Project Based Learning” from the list of Program Names.