Click here for a brief overview of the Kansai Gaidai University Asian Studies Program!
Exchange Model:
Note that this is an exchange program. In the exchange model, participating Gustavus students enroll directly in courses offered by a partner college or university located abroad or elsewhere in the US. In these programs, there is less direct support for participating students when compared to programs run by Gustavus or by partner organizations with US staff members and offices. The model requires some extra effort on the student's part, to navigate an unfamiliar institution and its systems, but the rewards are demonstrably greater (research shows this), as students who complete such programs experience the most immersive form of study away.
The application deadlines listed are the l
ast day to apply to KGU (a second step after the Gustavus application); you are encouraged to apply early. Kansai Gaidai's open application periods are as follows:
For Fall Enrollment: January 10 - May 15
For Spring Enrollment: August 1 - November 1
Kansai Gaidai University Exchange Program
This program is a Gustavus exchange and is Gustavus' longest running exchange program. Students are highly encouraged to meet with Professor Toshiyuki Sakuragi or Professor Lianying Shan of Gustavus' Japanese Studies program prior to applying for this program.
University and City
The unique quality of this study abroad experience is a combined result of the exceptional Kansai area, the immersion in Japanese family life, and solid classroom instruction. The Gustavus-Kansai Gaidai exchange program offers liberal arts students the opportunity to explore Japan in depth.
Kansai Gaidai is located between three cities representing Japan's rich past and present: Nara, the ancient capital; Kyoto, a cultural center where arts thrive and excel; and Osaka, a bustling merchant city where the foundation of economic power was laid. This extraordinary location of Kansai Gaidai, within an hour of each of these cities, allows for endless side trips. The staff are available to help the international students with anything they require, including travel arrangements.
Academics and Internships
Kansai Gaidai is a University which offers a diverse course selection. Gustavus exchange students will study as part of the Asian Studies Program at Kansai Gaidai.
The Curriculum of the Asian Studies Program is two-fold: rigorous Japanese language studies and courses in the Social Sciences, Humanities, and Business/Economics pertinent to Japan and Asia. All courses except the Japanese language courses are taught in English. Note that not all courses are offered both fall and spring terms. Check out the
current course listings for more information. You can also find
course syllabi here.
KGU now also offers an
internship opportunity that can earn course credit through KGU (and then credit transfer to Gustavus).
All credits transfer to Gustavus. All students must complete one semester of Japanese language or its equivalent before arrival in Japan. Students with sophomore standing or above, 3.0 cumulative GPA, and in good standing at Gustavus are eligible to participate.
Pre-approval is required to meet major/minor requirements or specific area requirements. Students studying at Kansai Gaidai generally receive between 3.75 and 4.25 Gustavus units. Four Kansai Gaidai semester credits are equal to 1 Gustavus course unit.
Accommodation
There are two main
housing options at KGU.
The Kansai Gaidai International Education Office strongly advocates their
Homestay Program. It offers a great opportunity to develop Japanese language skills and to understand Japanese culture in more depth by experiencing daily life. The families are experienced in the Homestay Program, and Gaidai will assist the student in solving any difficulties should they arise. Japanese Studies majors and minors are strongly advised to choose the Homestay Program.
If you are not a Japanese Studies major or minor and are specifically interested in a global setting with cohabitants from all over the world, the
Global Commons option may appeal to you.
Application & Deadlines
Students may apply for fall or spring semester or the academic year. The Gustavus Adolphus College application deadlines are:
- March 1 for fall or academic year
- September 15 for spring
Students must first apply for Gustavus approval through StudioAbroad (click "Apply Now" at the top or bottom of this page). After approval, students will work closely with their CICE advisor on their Kansai Gaidai University application.
Cost
Students pay their Gustavus tuition plus a Program Fee equal to Gustavus room & board. Students are responsible for transportation, passport, visa and other costs. Generally, all financial aid applies, except student employment and certain scholarships which require participation on campus. A deposit is due upon acceptance into the program.
Dates
Kansai Gaidai Asian Studies Program fall semester is in session from late August to mid-December; spring semester is in session from late January to late May. Note that since the Japanese academic calendar differs from that of the Asian Studies Program, few Japanese students will be on the main campus during the first three weeks of September, or during the months of February and March.