UMMER & INTER K YOTO, J APAN

Transcription

1 R I T S U M E IKAN UNIVERSITY UMMER & INTER K YOTO, J APAN

2 Contents 02 About Ritsumeikan 03 Program Outline 04 Curriculum 05 Japanese Language Classes 06 Japan Studies 07 Interviews 09 Campus Facilities / Program Fee 10 Accommodation 11 Program Schedule 12 How to Apply 13 Detailed Information 14 Custom Programs 08 Buddies / International Center 1

3 About Ritsumeikan Ritsumeikan was founded in 1900 as the Kyoto School of Law and Politics, an evening law school for working people. The school was founded by Nakagawa Kojuro, former secretary to Prince Saionji Kinmochi, a liberal statesman in late 19 th and early 20 th century Japan. With Saionji's blessing, the name was changed to Ritsumeikan Private University in Following the end of World War II, then university president Suekawa Hiroshi proposed Ritsumeikan's educational philosophy of Peace and Democracy, based on the Japanese Constitution and the Fundamental Law of Education. Ritsumeikan has now become an integrated academy with a rich culture of individuality and international awareness, accommodating a total of 49,000 students. The current Ritsumeikan Academy has campuses in Hokkaido, Shiga, Kyoto, and Oita and encompasses two universities, four high schools, four junior high schools, and one primary school. Since Ritsumeikan's establishment, approximately 300,000 people have graduated from Ritsumeikan University, 5,000 from Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU), and 90,000 from its affiliate schools. Ritsumeikan fosters learning and the development of individual talents in order to nurture just and ethical global citizens. 2

4 Program Outline The Ritsumeikan Summer Japanese Program (RSJP) and Ritsumeikan Winter Japanese Program (RWJP) are designed for undergraduate or graduate students with minimal knowledge of the Japanese language, providing a comprehensive introduction to Japanese language and culture. These programs are held in the ancient city of Kyoto, known for its traditional festivals such as "Gion Matsuri," one of the largest and most famous in Japan. It is home to many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, of which the famous Ryoanji Temple and Golden Pavilion are located within walking distance of Ritsumeikan. At the same time as being an ancient city with a rich cultural heritage, the city of Kyoto is also progressive and modern. The old and the new aspects of Kyoto co-exist in perfect harmony which provides program participants a unique learning environment for short-term intensive language study and the opportunity to experience cultural exchange and exploration. 3

5 Curriculum RSJP and RWJP are programs consisting of two major subjects. Participants are enrolled in an intensive Japanese language class which provides them with a thorough introduction to the language. Students also participate in Japan Studies classes to learn about Japanese culture and take part in fieldwork excursions. The following is an example of the weekly schedule during the program period. SCHEDULE 1 st Period 9:10~10:00 2 nd Period 10:10~11:00 3 rd Period 11:10~12:00 Lunch Afternoon 13:10~16:00 Monday Tuesday Wednesday Japanese Language Class Thursday Friday All schedules are subject to change. Japan Studies Japan Studies Japan Studies 4

6 Japanese Language Classes Japanese language classes are conducted for three hours every weekday morning, maintaining an overall balance between conversation, reading, and writing, with the goal of improving overall communication skills. Lectures in class will focus on topics such as business, history, sociology, and traditional culture to gain an understanding of the finer aspects of Japanese culture. Program participants will create a strong foundation for their future studies of Japanese through these lessons. Students will be placed into one of the following class levels according to the result of a placement test held on the first day of class. Level Description Beginners I Beginners II Beginners III Intermediate Advanced About 100 hours of previous study Able to read and write Hiragana, and carry out conversation using simple sentences and words Completed Genki L1~L5, NAKAMA I Ch.1~7, Minna no Nihongo L1~12 About 150 hours of previous study Able to carry out conversations using simple sentences and words. Has studied Kanji. Completed Genki L6~L12, NAKAMA I Ch.8~ NAKAMA II Ch.4, Minnna no Nihongo L13~L25 About 200 hours of previous study Knowledge of 200 kanji. Able to read sentences containing Kanji. Completed Genki L13~L23, NAKAMA II Ch.5~10, Minna no Nihongo L26~L50 About 350 hours of previous study Completed beginner level textbook such as Genki, Minna no Nihongo, etc. Have started studying with intermediate level textbook such as Intermediate Japanese, Tobira: Gateway to Adavanced Japanese, etc. About 500 hours of previous study In process of or have completed intermediate level Japanese, Tobira: Gateway to Advanced Japanese, Shin Nihongo no Chukyu etc. Note: Class offering is subject to a sufficient number of participants with similar level of Japanese language proficiency. All classes will be conducted at the Kinugasa Campus in Kyoto. An Introductory class may be offered for those who have not reached the level of Beginners I class. 5

7 Japan Studies Japan Studies classes are held two to three times a week in the afternoon. In addition to the lectures on Japanese culture held in the Japanese language classes, participants are given the opportunity to take part in various fieldwork excursions and receive special lectures on Japanese culture from masters who are well respected in their field in order to reinforce what they have learned. What is Chado? Chado, the way of Tea provides one of the best ways to come in the heart of the traditional Japanese spirit. Through experiencing tea, we learn about crafts, cuisine, architecture, etiquette, aesthetics, as well as philosophy, history, and Zen. But most of all, we experience tranquility and relaxation, and gain a new outlook on our modern way of life and thinking. Bruce Hamana, Instructor Midorikai Foreign Students Division Urasenke Gakuen Professional College of Chado Washi Chado Kinkaku Temple Wagashi Sake Museum Kiyomizu Temple What is Zen? Zen is investigation and clarification of the self. We live our whole life reacting to outside situations and yet so often have no idea what the self is that is reacting to things. By Zen meditation, you are turning the light of the mind back in, on itself and seeing how exactly the mind gives rise to its thought. Thomas Kershnner Tenryuji Institute for Philosophy and Religion, Researcher Hanazono University International Research Institute for Zen Buddhism, Researcher Zen Meditation 6

8 Interviews The RSJP program at Ristumeikan was amazing! The staff and students here were always friendly and welcoming. Also, being in Kyoto I got to experience things I will never forget because of all this history the city has to offer. Where else can you leave school and then 10 minutes later be in the Shogun's castle? My time studying at Ritsumeikan and living in Kyoto is something I will take with me for the rest of my life. If you are even considering doing this, just do it! It is something you will never regret! Paul Bigenho Florida International University Q A Q A INTERVIEW WITH PAUL Why Japan? I wanted to experience something completely different than where I am from, also to improve my Japanese language skills. Did the program help you further your Japanese language skills? Yes! I have heard from other participants, and I feel personally that my speaking has improved substantially! I completely agree with those who say you need to go to the language's home country to truly learn a language. Kim Ji-ae Hankuk University of Foreign Studies The Japan Studies were all interesting. I created the famous Japanese confectionary on my own and that was one of the fascinating experiences I had which I wouldn't have in my everyday life. I really enjoyed and have learned a lot from the language class. It includes not only textbook, but also some practical knowledge such as Kansai dialects, the things we should do in case of earthquakes or how to categorize garbage in Japan. The best thing about the program was making friends in Japan. Thanks to the buddies for being really friendly and helpful! Bian Yang Shenzhen University Yuhui Wang Alberta University 7 Comments are from participants

9 Buddies Ritsumeikan students play a great part in this program through their roles as volunteer buddies. Buddies will introduce participants to life on campus as well as provide assistance with daily life in Japan outside of class. They will also join participants on most fieldwork excursions for Japan Studies classes and also participate in the Japanese language classes as teaching assistants. By spending time with the buddies, participants can practice everyday conversation and at the same time make friends, both of which are highlights of the program. International Center The International Center handles all incoming and outgoing student exchanges at Ritsumeikan. We offer RSJP and RWJP participants assistance with all aspects of academic and student life, as well as providing comprehensive support on everything from initial application procedures to sending out the final transcript at the end of the program. We hope that studying abroad with the RSJP and RWJP will help you immerse yourself further in Japanese culture and strengthen your language skills while in Japan! 8

10 Campus Facilities Participants are able to make use of the many facilities available at Kinugasa Campus. Libraries Over 2.3 million books in Japanese, Chinese, English, and other languages are housed in the Ritsumeikan libraries. Each participant will be given a library card and will be able to borrow books during the program period. Medical Service Center The Medical Service Center offers medical assistance to students with health concerns. Consultations are available in English during certain times of the day. Cafeteria A wide variety of food is available at the cafeteria at reasonable prices. Gymnasium The university gymnasium houses a training room with a variety of exercise equipment and can be used free of charge by all participants. Internet Access Participants will be given a login ID and password, giving them access to the internet. The university also provides a campus-wide wireless network. Co-op The University Cooperative (Co-op) offers everything from food, books, CDs, and even a travel service. Program Fee Program fee and the items included are provided in this page. Participants are notified of payment details and procedures upon acceptance of the application form. 5 Week Program Fee 190,000 JPY Items included in the program fee are: tuition, textbook(s), fieldwork excursion, bus commuter pass, and liability insurance. Lists of additional expenses not included in the program fee that may be necessary are listed below. These expenses may vary depending on individual lifestyle. Estimated additional expenses (not included in the program fee) Accommodation Airport Shuttle Food 80,000 JPY 7,000 JPY 50,000 JPY Personal expenses and airfare are not included in the abovementioned costs. Accommodation fee will vary depending on the room type. 9

11 Accommodation Ritsumeikan will provide support in booking a room at the following accommodations at the participant's request. Seed in Kyoto Nijo / Seed in Kyoto Horikawa Seed in Kyoto Nijo and Seed in Kyoto Horikawa are furnished apartments located in the center of Kyoto City. They are conveniently located for sightseeing, easy to reach by public transportation, and in close proximity of several grocery stores and convenience stores. Twin and triple rooms are available to RSJP and RWJP participants and must be shared. Rooms include an air-conditioner, TV, bed(s), closet, bath/shower, toilet, wash basin, laundry machine, refrigerator, kitchen, and a balcony. Seed in Kyoto Nijo / Horikawa Monthly Fees Toilet/Wash basin Refrigerator Bath/Shower Kitchen Laundry Dryer Bedding Provided Internet Access Approx. 80,000JPY Private Private Private Private Private Communal Yes (additional fee for extra bed linens) Free The staff at Seed in Kyoto are happy to make your stay in Japan comfortable and more meaningful by first greeting you in Japanese. We are capable of handling matters in English in case of emergency or trouble, but would like you to take this opportunity to visit the reception desk for a little chat as a place to practice your Japanese conversation! Seed in Kyoto Nijo: Seed in Kyoto Horikawa: 10

12 Program Schedule RSJP SUMMER 2011RSJP 1 (May 31-July 1) Admission 2011 RSJP 2 (July 5-August 5) Admission 2011 February 22 nd Application Period Begins 2011 March 29 th Application Period Begins March 22 nd Application Deadline April 26 th Application Deadline April 12 th Program Fee Due May 17 th Program Fee Due May 30 th Arrival Date th July 4 Arrival Date May 31 st Orientation Campus Tour July 5 th Orientation Campus Tour June 1 st First Day of Class Welcome Party July 6 th First Day of Class Welcome Party Last Day of Class Last Day of Class July 1 st Closing Ceremony August 5 th Closing Ceremony Farewell Party Note: all dates are subject to change. RWJP Level Description Farewell Party Note: all dates are subject to change. WINTER 2011 RWJP (January 17-February 17 ) Admission October 4 th November 1 st November 22 nd January 16 th January 17 th January 18 th February 17 th Application Period Begins Application Deadline Program Fee Due Arrival Date Orientation Campus Tour First Day of Class Welcome Party Last Day of Class Closing Ceremony 11 Farewell Party Note: all dates are subject to change.

13 How To Apply 1 Download the Application Form from the RSJP/RWJP website 2 Fill out and send the application form to Ritsumeikan along with the following documents. 1. Original certificate of enrollment from the institution you are presently attending 2. Most recent original academic transcript from the institution you are presently attending 3. Photocopy of the information pages of your passport indicating the passport number and period of validity. 4. Two photographs (3cm X 4cm) with your name written on the back NOTE: All applications must arrive at Ritsumeikan by the deadline. See the program schedule on page 11 for the appropriate deadline. 3 Mail Applications To: International Center at Kinugasa Campus, Ritsumeikan University 56-1 Toji-in Kitamachi, Kita-ku, Kyoto , JAPAN TEL: 81-(075) FAX:81-(075) Visa Procedures Participants are responsible for contacting the Japanese embassy or consulate in their home country directly to determine if they are required to apply for a visa in advance. If it is determined that you need to obtain a visa, please notify the International Center. International Traveler Insurance We strongly recommend that all participants enroll in international traveler insurance before their departure to Japan. 12

14 Admission Requirements To be eligible to enroll in RSJP or RWJP, applicants must meet all the following requirements: 1. Be enrolled as a full-time undergraduate or graduate student at the commencement of the program. 2. Have the ability to communicate in English OR be able to communicate in basic Japanese. 3. Are encouraged to study hiragana and katakana before the commencement of the program. Grading System Grades for Japanese language classes are assessed according to a combination of class participation, quiz and final examination, assignments, and attendance. Japan Studies classes are assessed solely on attendance. Standard Class Hours Assessment Criteria Program Duration Japanese Language Class (JLC) (1 day x 1 class 50min. x 3) min. Japan Studies (JS) (1 JS x 90min.) min. Total Class Hours (JLC + JS) *2 weeks *3 weeks *4 weeks 5 weeks min min min min. Program Transcript Participants who have successfully completed the program will be issued a certificate of completion and program transcript listing hours of participation and grades for Japanese language classes and Japan Studies. Credit Transfer RSJP and RWJP is a non-degree program. Therefore, participants should consult with their home institutions about converting class hours conducted during the programs to credits in advance. Other Accomodation The International Center will provide support to participants when booking accommodation at Seed in Kyoto Nijo and Horikawa. Other options are also available to those who would like to stay at a different location; however, arrangements must be made by participants themselves. Other possible accommodation locations near Ritsumeikan are listed below. Hotel Chrysantheme Kyoto The Palace Side Hotel 13

15 Custom Programs The International Center offers not only standard programs but also customized programs to universities overseas who are looking to send groups of students to Japan. What is a Custom Program? Custom programs are expressly tailored Japanese language programs that are coordinated by the staff of the International Center. A program coordinator will arrange a 2-week to 5-week program starting anytime of the year according to the standard RSJP and RWJP programs. Arrangements for programs lasting longer than 5 weeks are possible by contacting the International Center. Why customize? Requests that standard programs may not provide, such as designating the program period, will be possible by customization. A program coordinator will support and correspond with the utmost care to customize a program to meet the needs of students, teachers, and administrators. If you can't spend a full semester to study abroad but would still like to experience studying in Japan, this custom program will be a great opportunity! What support? The International Center provides support for custom programs by offering a variety of services including: Program design Accommodation support Visa assistance Post-program administrative support Getting Started For more detailed information or to begin the process of creating a custom program, please contact the International Center as listed below. Contact Information International Center at Kinugasa Campus, Ritsumeikan University 56-1 Toji-in Kitamachi, Kita-ku, Kyoto , JAPAN Address intl-kic@st.ritsumei.ac.jp RSJP/RWJP Website 14

16 Copyright 2011 Atsushi & Haruko Sakaguchi International Center at Kinugasa Campus Ritsumeikan University 56-1, Toji-in Kita-machi, Kita-ku, Kyoto JAPAN TEL : FAX : Cover Picture The cover image, from the ukiyo-e collection of Ritsumeikan University s Art Research Center intl-kic@st.ritsumei.ac.jp