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 Sophia University (Tokyo, Japan)
Highlights
- Study in Tokyo, where the rhythms of commercialism collide with quiet traditions
- Enroll in Japanese language and studies courses (in Japanese) and liberal arts courses (in English)
- Become part of one of Japan's leading private universities, which was founded in 1913
Overview
St. Norbert College partners with Sophia University to offer students the opportunity to study in Tokyo, Japan. Founded in 1913, Sophia University began with the mission to build bridges between Japan and the world. Today, Sophia is one of Japan's leading private universities with nearly 12,000 students. St. Norbert students study in the Faculty of Liberal Arts (FLA), which is comprised of 800 students from 40 different nationalities.
Sophia University is located in Yotsuya, literally in the heart of Tokyo. The area around the university has long been at the center of the Japanese political, economic, and cultural worlds. The Imperial Palace, the Parliament, the Geihinkan, and the National Diet Library are all within easy walking distance of the university.
Testimonials
- One of the benefits of studying abroad for me was that it gave me a
chance to take a step away from the routine I was so used to at St.
Norbert. I was able to experience a whole new way of life. (Troy, Spring 2010)
- Studying abroad has increased my interest in other cultures and countries, opened my eyes, and made me less naive and more adaptable. (Edward, Spring 2010)
Orientation
Students will finalize their course registration on-site. After arriving in Japan, students will receive their personal login ID at the orientation, and then register for courses online during the course registration period. A detailed explanation of this process will be provided during the orientation.
Coursework
- Language: English and Japanese
St. Norbert students select courses from the Faculty of Liberal Arts (FLA). Coursework is offered in English in comparative culture, international
business and economics, and sociology. Students may take courses that meet the GS1U, GS10, and GS11 requirements. Students may also select from a full-range of Japanese language and studies courses. It is compulsory for St. Norbert students to complete at least one Japanese language course per semester.
The current course schedule is available on the university's Student Life page. Students may also consult the course information page for exchange students (select Undergraduate - Faculty of Liberal Arts). Course descriptions are available on the Faculty of Liberal Arts' Curriculum page. On the right navigation, click the links under "Curriculum." Please note that the core courses in the Faculty (basic skills,
English composition, public speaking, and thinking process), along with
language courses (except Japanese), are not open to St. Norbert
students.
Outside the classroom, Sophia students usually join at least one of the numerous extracurricular organizations on-campus, ranging from sports, music, and volunteer activities to
cultural performances and current social issues. During Freshman Week, clubs put up booths to introduce their activities to new
students and to recruit members. The Global Network, established by students interested in exchange
between international and Japanese students, sponsors lunch-time
discussions, home visits, and cultural activities. And, of course,
Sophia students take advantage of the rich cultural offerings of the
city of Tokyo.
Accommodations
Since the Sophia campus is located in the heart of Tokyo, one of the most expensive cities in the world, reasonable housing options are located in the suburbs. Three options are available: apartment-style facilities, residence halls (men only), and homestays (limited availability). There are no on-campus options. Students must commute to the university from their housing, keeping in mind that the train and subway systems in Tokyo are well-developed.
Students will complete their housing application during the application process. Housing arrangements will then be made by Sophia University on a first-come first-served basis.
Meals are provided if students are housed in the men's Koganei Dormitory or with a host family. If housed in one of the apartment-style facilities, meals are the responsibility of the student.
Calendar
Due to the nature of the Japanese academic calendar, students may only study during the spring semester, unless an entire academic year is spent at Sophia.
- Fall 2012: September 18 or 19, 2012 - February 2, 2013
- Spring 2013: Early April - Late July, 2013 (dates coming soon)
A detailed calendar is also available.
Admissions
Visa Information
A visa is official permission, granted by the authorities of the
country where you wish to study or visit, which allows you to enter and
remain in that country for a specific purpose and for a designated
period of time. You cannot apply for a student visa until you have
received an acceptance letter from your institution abroad. You are
responsible for applying for the correct visa and paying all necessary
fees.
Japan requires that you have a student visa
in order to enter the country. If you are accepted to Sophia University, you will receive a Certificate of Eligibility with your acceptance documents. You must then apply for a student visa with your Certificate of Eligibility. You should familiarize yourself with the
visa application process by visiting the web site of the Consulate of Japan in Chicago.
Please note that visa requirements change frequently. Research your country's requirements or contact your study abroad advisor for the most current information.
Disclaimer: Program information is subject to change.
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Fees
- SNC Tuition
- SNC Room
- $400 Study Abroad Fee
Fees Include
- Tuition
- Housing
- SNC Study Abroad Health Insurance
Additional Expenses
- Airfare
- Meals
- Commuter Pass (¥5,000 - ¥10,000 per month)
Student Testimonials
For more information, contact:
Jeremy Doughty
Study Abroad Advisor
O: Bemis 321
T: 920.403.3433
E: jeremy.doughty@snc.edu
Contact Jeremy
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