Introduction to the JTW Program

The JTW program is a comprehensive study program designed for international students to understand Japanese culture and society in today's world. The program is offered by Kyushu University and provides a unique opportunity for students to immerse themselves in Japanese culture while earning academic credits.

Program Structure

The JTW program offers two study period options:

• Option 1: Academic Year Period (October - July)
• Option 2: One Semester Period (October - February or April - July)

The program is designed to help participants achieve the core objective of understanding Japanese culture and society over the course of one academic year. However, students can also participate in the program for one semester.

Academic Learning

The JTW program offers various academic learning opportunities, including:

2.1. Academic Policies & Requirements

• JTW M6C ENROLLMENT REQUIREMENT: Students must enroll in a minimum of six for-credit courses each semester.
• AWARDING OF CREDIT: Students earn official credit upon successful completion of courses and projects.
• CREDIT TRANSFER: Credit transfer is possible, but subject to approval by the home university.

2.2. JTW Core Courses Required

• At least two JTW core courses are required per semester.
• Each course comprises 15 class sessions, meeting once a week during a 15-week period.
• Each course is worth 2 credits (upon successful completion).

2.3. Japanese Language Courses (JACs) Optional

• JACs offer four types and up to eight levels of Japanese language lessons.
• Each JACs course runs as a series of small-group, interactive, and practical sessions.
• Per semester, students can attend JACs courses for two consecutive quarters, totaling 15 weeks.

2.4. Independent Study Project (ISP) Optional

• An ISP is a semester-long, topic-driven research project.
• Students work under faculty guidance and meet with their supervisor two or more times per month.
• The ISP is worth 2 credits (upon successful completion).

2.5. Advanced Laboratory Research (ALR) Optional

• An ALR project is an opportunity for students to design and carry out a research project in a laboratory setting.
• ALR projects are conducted in English and are available to students majoring in science or engineering.
• The ALR project is worth 2 credits (upon successful completion).

2.6. Regular Faculty Courses Optional

• Regular faculty courses are offered outside the JTW program by standard faculties.
• Students can enroll in these courses for credit, with up to two courses counted towards the JTW M6C enrollment requirement.

Experiential Learning

The JTW program offers various experiential learning opportunities, including:

3.1. JTW Field Study Trips

• Field study trips are conducted on a monthly basis, with 8-10 trips over the course of a program year.
• Trips include physical activities, such as rice reaping and planting, and cultural experiences, such as visiting a Buddhist temple.

3.2. Student Tutor Program

• The program arranges a student-to-student partnership between international students and Japanese students.
• Student tutors provide one-on-one assistance and support throughout the study period.

3.3. Japanese Conversation Partner Program

• The program arranges a student-to-student partnership between international students and Japanese students.
• Students can interact with their conversation partner in English, Japanese, or a combination of both.

3.4. Home Visit Program

• The program introduces international students to a Japanese family living in the Fukuoka City area.
• Students can experience standard Japanese family life firsthand and develop warm friendships.

3.5. On-Campus Exchange Activities

• The program arranges and conducts activities or events to facilitate experiential learning of Japanese culture and society.
• Students are encouraged to take the lead in planning and conducting activities based on their interests.

Kyushu University