Miyazaki, Japan

Be part of a cohort group of 24-28 students from Edmonds College and other Colleges to live and study in Japan in this 10-week study abroad program. Earn 15 Edmonds College transfer credits in Japanese Language, and two Art classes.

A Washington Community College faculty member will lead the group and teach the curriculum along with local Japanese faculty members. 

Japan offers a rich environment of arts, culture and history where centuries-old traditions exist in contrast with ultra-modern life-styles. You will be based in the small city of Miyazaki, located on Kyushu island, and be hosted by Miyazaki Municipal University. Your faculty leader will lead two multi-day academic trips in Tokyo and in Kyoto. 

Program Dates:  September 23-December 3, 2024 (dates are subject to change)

Application Deadline: June 3, 2024

Program Fee Deadline: June 24, 2024

Tuition Due: check academic calendar

Eligibility: 2.5 GPA or higher, Students 17 or older, students under 18 must obtain parent/guardian permission

APPLICATION LINK HERE

Our office will review this application and let you know how to proceed.

Please note that students that have been sanctioned by the college are disqualified from applying to, or participating in, an Edmonds College study abroad program.

This is a study program, so you must carry a three-course, 15 credit load. You are also expected to fully participate in all activities. 

Japanese Class (Various levels)- 5 Credits

Japanese Language classes are offered in various levels (basic-intermediate). Students will take a placement test to determine their language level and placement. It is required to learn the Hiragana and the Katakana alphabets before your trip. These classes will be taught by a Miyazaji Municipal University faculty member.

Digital Photography (Various levels)- 5 Credits

"Introduction to Digital Photography in Japan" is a beginner-level course aimed at students interested in exploring the fundamentals of digital photography within the context of Japan's unique geographic and cultural setting. The course will cover essential photography principles, including camera operation, composition, lighting, and post-processing, while providing students with the opportunity to apply these skills in real-world settings. Through field trips, guided photography sessions, and cultural immersion, students will gain a deeper appreciation for Japan as a subject of photographic art.

Art Appreciation- 5 Credits

Art Appreciation in Japan" offers an immersive exploration into Japanese art, aimed at students with an interest in understanding how art reflects and influences culture and society. The course covers a wide range of artistic mediums and periods, emphasizing the historical context, thematic elements, and techniques employed by Japanese artists. Students will learn to appreciate the aesthetic principles that underlie Japanese art, from the simplicity and elegance of wabi-sabi to the vibrant and dynamic forms of contemporary anime and manga.

FACULTY

CHAD WHITE
Bellevue College Faculty - Art Department/Photography

Chad White is an award winning educator and national speaker with over 17 years of experience teaching in higher education. He received a B.F.A. in Fine Arts from the University of New Mexico and an M.F.A. in Fine Arts from Arizona State University. Chad currently serves as the Chair of the Art Department and the faculty head of photography at Bellevue College where he has taught courses in intro to film and digital photography, art & technology, studio lighting, and advanced photography. Previous experience includes leading art and photography workshops at the Phoenix Art Museum, island sailing tours within the Puget Sound, and at Olympic National Park to name a few. Recently, Chad has been extensively traveling throughout Japan for a new photographic series based on the intersection of art & technology and cultural and social phenomenon. His professional work is exhibited and published internationally and is held in numerous public and private collections.

WHERE YOU'LL BE STUDYING

While in Japan, the group will be hosted by Miyazaki Municipal University, located in the vibrant city of Miyazaki. This university campus specializes in offering comprehensive education in various fields, particularly engineering and architecture, catering to the needs of first and second-year students.

Miyazaki city is renowned for its academic atmosphere, housing Miyazaki Municipal University alongside other esteemed educational institutions. Surrounded by picturesque landscapes, Miyazaki city boasts a stunning natural setting, bordered by mountains and offering breathtaking views. Situated in the southern part of Japan, Miyazaki city provides a unique cultural experience distinct from urban centers, yet remains easily accessible by various modes of transportation.

Explore Miyazaki Municipal University's campus through their promotional materials and gain insight into student life in Miyazaki by following social media hashtags such as #MiyazakiMunicipalUniversity and #Miyazakivisit.

ACCOMMODATIONS

At Miyazaki Municipal University, students have various food options on campus and in Miyazaki city. On campus, there are diverse dining choices, including traditional Japanese and international cuisine. Miyazaki city offers affordable food options such as pizza parlors and French-style bakeries. Local noodle shops serve delicious dishes like tempura, sushi, and bento boxes at reasonable prices, allowing students to enjoy authentic Japanese flavors without overspending.

ACTIVITIES

The program includes cultural activities and several organized field trips which may include: TBD

Additional Optional Activities: Other field trips are optional and may require an additional fee. There will also be plenty of opportunity to do your own exploring using convenient public transport or tour specialists.

Program Fee: $7,800

• Program cost includes roundtrip airfare and transfers to/from Miyazaki airport, and trips to Tokyo and  Kyoto from Miyazaki.
• A $450 (non-refundable) deposit is required to be paid within 2 weeks of your acceptance to hold your place in the program.

Included In Cost: 

Round trip group airfare on program dates from Seattle/Miyazaki/Seattle
Round trip group airfare on program dates from Miyazaki/Tokyo/Miyazaki
Round trip group airfare on program dates from Miyazaki/Kyoto/Miyazaki
Group transfers to/from Miyazaki airport
Student housing accommodations while at Miyazaki Municipal University
Some cultural activities and excursions
Pre-departure and arrival orientations
Some Local transportation
Student basic medical insurance

Not Included

College tuition and books
Passport and visa fees (If applicable)
Meals
Curriculum activities admissions
Personal and entertainment expenses
Independent travel and expenses 
US and Japanese airport fees and taxes (if applicable)
Anything not specified as included in the program

It is important that before planning your trip to Japan, consider all the medications you need to take with you, in case you have any medical condition or need to take a certain medication.

For this, it is necessary that you go to a trusted doctor so they can give you a certificate that you certainly need these medicines, so Japanese customs do not confiscate your medications, and if you need to get more of these and are not available in Japan, you can import them.