Business Communications in Japan

Students fly independently to Tokyo and travel on the bullet train to Hikone, home to feudal castles, and located on the eastern shore of the huge and beautiful Lake Biwa. In Hikone, students study at the Japan Center for Michigan Universities. Orientation and cultural visits cover a range of topics and introduce the group to the school, the Japanese language and culture. 

By learning about Japanese business culture and new language skills, students gain a competitive edge in the global business world. The program offers specialized Japanese language training tailored for business communication to learn key phrases, expressions, and language etiquette necessary for effective interaction in professional settings. 

Students attend business communication workshops and participate in interactive activities and role-playing exercises, practice various business scenarios, email communications, presentations, and networking skills using newly learned Japanese language skills and enhanced communication styles. Courses focus on business etiquette, customs, and traditions. 

Weekly visits to prominent Japanese companies and organizations include observation of work culture, strategies, and management practices with the opportunity to engage in discussions with executives and employees to broaden understanding of Japanese business dynamics. Students will enhance adaptability, global mindset, and interpersonal skills and navigate the challenges and opportunities of conducting business in a diverse and dynamic global market.

Students have the opportunity to collaborate with local Japanese students on group projects that promote cross-cultural teamwork and foster international friendships. 

Students explore fascinating landmarks, historical sites, and natural beauty of Japan during organized cultural excursions. Excursions include visits to ancient temples, participation in traditional tea ceremonies, and navigating the bustling streets of modern cities.

Following the program, students will fly back independently from Tokyo.

Requirements: No minimum GPA is required. No prior knowledge of Japanese is necessary.

Course:  COM 3401: Business Communications in Japan (3 credits) The course fulfills the School of Business communication requirement. Students who have already fulfilled the requirement can earn credit as IS 2200 Perspectives on Japan which meets General Education Global Perspectives requirements.

Students who have previously taken COM 3401 can receive an alternate course designation and should speak with the program leader. 

Students will attend class in-person with OU faculty for four weeks in Japan. The course is conducted in English.

Students who are studying business, engineering, finance and disciplines in the College of Arts and Sciences can benefit from the course.

The Japanese language training module is open to students of all levels, from beginner in the Japanese language to proficient.

Students will have a chance to communicate and exchange ideas with Japanese business professionals while enhancing understanding of other cultures and cultural diversity.

Students will stay in the JCMU Residence Hall throughout the program, with double occupancy. Each room has a private bedroom, plenty of closet/storage space, a shared kitchen and a shared bathroom. Kitchenware comes standard in each room, as does bedding. The kitchen is equipped with a stove, sink, cupboards, mini-fridge, rice cooker, microwave and toaster oven.

For one weekend while in Japan, students will stay with a Japanese host family and experience family life.

The JCMU campus features an onsite restaurant. Students can also purchase lunches and dinners independently at the many restaurants, cafes and tea houses throughout the region with local variety that includes sushi, udon, ramen, yakitori, dessert and more. Preparing meals in the residence hall is an economical and cultural option for dining.

Program Fee: $5,000

The program fee will be charged on your eBill.

The fee includes: tuition, housing and some meals, and excursions while in Japan, as well as health insurance.

Additional Costs: $4,375

You will need additional funds for these expenses not covered by program fee. Amounts are estimated.

Airfare: $2,800

Meals: $850

Local Transportation: $250

Incidental personal expenses: $300

Passport (if you don't have one): $175

Scholarships and Financial Aid: You are able to use financial aid to cover your full cost of attendance to this program (tuition, program fee and additional costs). Scholarships are also available through your study abroad application.