Study Abroad in Kyoto, Japan

Itinerary & Calendar

The 2010 Summer Study Abroad Program will take place June 4 to July 5. Enrollment is limited to 15 students. Application deadline is March 31.

The objective of this program is to experience the unique cultures, politics and historical sites of Japan and the Korean Peninsula.  Through both classroom learning and extensive field study students will gain a “global literacy” that cannot be matched by more traditional study abroad programs. Within a single month, participants will have the chance to visit numerous World Heritage Sites around Kyoto, contemplate the significance of the atomic bomb site in Hiroshima, catch a Japanese baseball game, take a ferry across the Straits of Tsushima to Korea, and stay overnight at a Korean Buddhist temple. The capstone experience of the program is a day trip through the demilitarized zone (DMZ) and across the border to the North Korean city of Gaesong.  Throughout the program, the course reading and lectures will emphasize the principles of conflict resolution and empathy as tools for peace and social enrichment. 

The program is conducted through the cooperation of the Center for the Study of Global Issues (Globis), Ryukoku University in Japan and Yeungnam University in Korea. Globis will offer advanced undergraduate courses in East Asian Cultures (CMLT 3180) and International Security in East Asia (INTL 4360).

The program is open to undergraduate students in good academic standing. There is no language requirement and all courses will be taught in English. Students are required to take six semester hours.

Kyoto and its vicinity are rich in world-celebrated cultural heritage. Since the foundation of the Heian-kyo capital in 794 A.D., which is now called Kyoto, the city flourished as the seat of Japan's imperial court for over one thousand years, until 1868, when the capital was transferred to Tokyo. At the foot of the mountains surrounding Kyoto, magnificent structures and gardens created during various periods since the 8th century have been well preserved. In December 1994, a total of 17 buildings comprising temples, shrines and a castle in the Kyoto region were recognized by UNESCO as World Cultural Heritages. All have structures designated as National Treasures and beautiful gardens. These historic properties and their environs are now preserved as designated scenic areas.

UGA students and faculty will have the cooperation of the Faculty of Intercultural Communication (FIC) of Ryukoku University in such areas as computing and electronic communication facilities, transportation for educational tours in the region, dining facilities and libraries. Ryukoku is one of the oldest universities in Japan, well-known for its academic excellence and exemplary social and spiritual values. Today over 18,000 students, from all over Japan and from many countries around the world, study there.

The Global Studies Certificate in Global Studies

Both courses offered in the program can be used toward the requirements for the Certificate in Global Studies. This certificate is designed to increase global literacy through the study of issues and problems associated with globalization. Contact the Globis office for further information on the certificate requirement.

Summer 2010 calendar will include:
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