Navigate Up
Sign In
Contemporary Japan, International Christian Univ. (Semester)
Focusing on Japan today, this unique program explores the recent evolution of Japanese society and culture. A core course provides a historical look at the evolution of post-1945 Japanese culture, social and political development. It examines the nation's media culture, Japan’s economic and political standing in our global world, and touches on issues specific to modern Japan (immigration, falling birth rate, youth culture, economic restructuring, and the nation’s role in world affairs). Additional courses are taken in subjects of interest to the student.
 
This semester program is only available to UC Berkeley and Merced students. All other students should refer to the Contemporary Japan, UC-International Christian University (Quarter) program.
 
Students attend classes with international and/or host country students.

Course Opportunities

Interdisciplinary and subject-specific courses on contemporary Japanese culture in the areas of art, communication, cultural studies, media, economic development, sociology, history, politics, and society are required. The program is suited to students in the humanities and social sciences, or those with interest in the program’s primary themes. Students enroll in courses selected from the ICU Japanese Studies curriculum. Language study is optional.
 
Use the following resources to learn about EAP courses:
  • EAP Program Search provides information on general areas of study.
  • MyEAP Course Catalog list of ICU and intensive language courses previously taken by UC students. Additional courses may be available and not all courses may still be offered.
  • Host institution online catalogs or course listings:

Units

You are required to take a full-time course of study while abroad. UC Berkeley and Merced students take a minimum of 19.5 quarter units and participate in a required 1.5-unit independent study module that counts toward the 19.5 units to earn a semester’s credit.
 
Unit values vary from course to course. For example:
  • Selected curriculum courses are 4 UC quarter units each
  • Intensive language courses are 12 UC quarter units

Language of Instruction

English


Language Study

Japanese
Japanese language study is strongly encouraged, but is not required.​


Internships, Research, and Independent Study

Independent study for academic credit may be possible in this program. Arrangements are made at the Study Center after arrival.
​

Duration

Go to the Participants section to see current or past calendars.
 
Fall Semester :  
late August to late November

  :  

  :  

  :  

  :  

  :  

  :  

  :  


You are encouraged to extend your EAP participation in Japan to ICU year.​

Housing

UC students live on campus in shared rooms.
​

On-site Support

EAP students are supported by UC’s network of EAP offices at every UC campus and partnerships with EAP host universities throughout the world. UC faculty and local staff abroad help students integrate into the culture of Japan and provide assistance with academics, housing, safety, and other issues.
​
See the EAP Program Guide (PDF) for program-specific details about host institutions, program structure, and courses; academic culture and conduct; internships, research, & independent study; units, exams, and grades; orientation; housing; and information about the intensive language program (if applicable).​

Host Institutions

International Christian University, Tokyo

International Christian University, Tokyo
International Christian University (ICU) is a relatively small institution (approximately 2,800 students) located in Mitaka, a western suburb of Tokyo, on a peaceful and spacious campus.  ICU was founded by Japanese and North American educators shortly after World War II and has earned a reputation as a truly international university. Strong fields include Japanese language and literature, linguistics, history, art history, area studies, psychology, and international relations.
 
ICU has a university center with clubrooms, a small lounge and snack bar, bookstore, post office, and auditorium. The Mildred Topp Othmer Library is a state-of-the-art facility with computer resources, expanded materials, and the first fully automated storage and retrieval system in Japan. 
 

Estimated Cost

Participation in UCEAP is a great value! The cost of studying abroad on UCEAP programs is typically less than that of non-UC study abroad programs. The dollar figures listed in the chart represent: 1) the amount of the fees that are paid directly to UCEAP in the current year, and 2) an estimate of the amount needed to cover personal living expenses in this location. Personal travel and entertainment are not included here.
 
Don't forget that you take your financial aid with you and the amount of your financial aid package will take into account the estimated TOTAL COST of this experience, as it is estimated below.
 
These expenses are estimated for 2012-13. Amounts will vary for 2012-13 participation due to potential changes to UC fees, exchange rate fluctuation, etc. Non-Resident Fees apply: If you are subject to out-of-state tuition at your UC campus, you will pay the same fees on UCEAP. For a more detailed breakdown of 2012-13 payment information, visit the Participants Portal and select the appropriate program. 
 
Here’s what is included in the estimate:
 
  • Predeparture expenses (visa, etc.)
  • Round-trip transportation from California
  • UC fees
  • Tuition at partner institution
  • Accident and medical insurance
  • On-site orientation
  • Room and board
  • Program excursions
  • Books and other incidental expenses
  • Automatic transfer of credits and grades to your UC transcript
​

Estimated EAP Costs*

Options Cost
  • Fall Semester
  • $16,100
*Based on most recent costs to the nearest $100.

Scholarships

UCEAP scholarships for the 2012-13 academic year are available. Please visit our scholarships overview page for general information and details  regarding eligibility requirements and application deadlines.

Application Requirements

Class Level:

Sophomore, Junior, Senior

Language Prerequisites:

None

GPA:

3.00 cumulative GPA at the time of application and maintained through the end of the last term prior to departure.

Other Eligibility Requirements:


Applicants must have a cumulative UC GPA of at least 3.0. Transfer GPAs will not be accepted for this program.

Minimum Criteria:

 All applicants must also have:
  • Serious academic goals and a clear plan for integrating EAP studies into the student's UC degree program
  • Social and cross-cultural sensitivity; maturity; ability to adapt successfully to a different environment and an new education system; ability to assess and exhibit appropriate behavior in a variety of situations
  • A willingness to abide by program regulations
  • An endorsement by the Campus EAP Selection Committee and completion of all campus-specific requirements (an interview may be required)

Deadlines

Application deadlines and information on the application process are available through your Campus EAP Office. Supplemental predeparture materials will be required for many programs, including, but not limited to, host institution applications, visa and housing applications, medical clearances, etc.

For participation in the program, you must meet all deadlines and submit complete application materials.

Visit your Campus EAP Office for more information: