The University
Akita International University (AIU), within the Akita prefecture, in the northeastern part of Honshu Island on the Japan Sea, 400 miles north of Tokyo, lies Akita City, the capital of Akita prefecture. From various mountain ranges and nearby cedar forests, to colorful rice fields and the Omono River (one of the largest rivers in Japan), AIU is surrounded by natural settings including ancient cherry trees and snow-capped mountains, which can be seen from the campus each Spring.

The Program

The virtual AIU Summer Intensive Japanese Language program is a rigorous program designed to improve language skills in a small classroom setting, over a period of 6 weeks. Each student will receive 6 credits in one of two levels of Japanese language. The virtual summer program is designed for students at beginner Japanese level and includes cultural classes such as Tea-Ceremony and Ikebana, as well as a virtual trip to a famous historical and cultural resource in Akita. This program is a great way for students to improve or begin to learn Japanese language while deepening their understanding of Japanese culture.

Review the summer program schedule for more information on program specifics. Please note the time difference between Japan and your location when reviewing the schedule. 

The Courses
This 6-week program offers 2 levels of beginner Japanese language courses taught both synchronously and asynchronously. 

The classes are conducted primarily in Japanese. Students who have problems during the classes are strongly encouraged to consult with the instructor. 

Participants will enroll in one of these courses: 

JPN 105 - 6 credits (Click to view syllabus)
This course is designed to acquaint students with grammatical structures and vocabulary appropriate for beginning learners. The first six chapters of "Genki", Vol.1 will be covered in this course. Instruction will focus on the development of all four skills (speaking, listening, reading and writing) and cultural knowledge. Through a variety of communicative activities, students will learn how to express their own ideas and to use the language creatively both orally and in writing. 

At the end of the course, the successful students will be able to:

• Read and write all Hiragana and Katakana, and approximately 60 kanji characters.
• Understand basic Japanese grammar and its function necessary to greet, introduce themselves, talk and ask about their everyday routine, describe basic characteristics of people and things, talk and ask about one’s preference, suggest plans, make requests, give and deny permission, explain reasons and offer assistance. 

• Read and write all Hiragana and Katakana, and approximately 90 new kanji characters.
• Understand basic Japanese grammar and its function necessary to greet, introduce themselves, talk and ask about their everyday routine, describe basic characteristics of people and things, talk and ask about one’s preference, suggest plans, make requests, give and deny permission, explain reasons and offer assistance.

At the end of the course, the successful students will be able to:

• Read and write approximately 150 kanji characters.
• Understand basic Japanese grammar and its function necessary to talk and ask about their everyday routine, describe basic characteristics of people and things, make comparisons, describe one’s plans, hopes, and aspirations, explain reasons, talk about past experiences, and make inquiries and requests appropriately.

 Costs (budget sheet)
Select your term of interest for the latest budget information.

Financial Aid
Students currently receiving financial aid can use their aid for overseas study, and may, in some cases, have their awards increased. Students not currently receiving financial aid may be eligible. Those interested in financial aid for this program should contact the financial aid office on their home campus.

Applications
Late applications are accepted on a space-available basis. Please contact the program coordinator for further details.

A non-refundable deposit of $250, applicable to the program cost, must be paid within 14 days of acceptance to the program in order to secure program participation. Any deviation from program requirements must be requested in writing and authorized by the Director of International Education and Programs before the final payment date.

Updated: 1/7/22