A.01Once you are out in society, daily conversation-level fluency is not enough. To excel in language proficiency, you need a correct understanding of the pronunciation, grammar and vocabulary of the language, as well as a broad knowledge of the language, the society where the language is used, and the cultural background of the language. The ability to think and express ideas logically and analytically fostered during the process of learning about the language, culture and society will also help you greatly in whatever job you choose. If you have strong communication skills, a broad knowledge, and the ability to think logically and put ideas into practice, you can prove your worth in society.

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The Faculty of Global Communications admits international students through entrance examinations designed for international students (I and II), and examination for admission by recommendation. Entrance examinations for international students are conducted not only at Doshisha University but also overseas (e.g. Korea and Taiwan). If you have a strong desire to study in the Japanese Course, you may apply for admission through the recommendation of your teacher. For details, refer to the Entrance Examination page on the official website of the Faculty.

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Doshisha University offers various types of scholarship programs to enable students to focus on their studies without financial worries. For example, Doshisha University Reduced Tuition Scholarships for Self-Funded International Students can reduce tuition by 100%, 50% or 20%.The reduction rate is determined based on the entrance examination results. About 10% of international students are not eligible for this tuition reduction. However, various other scholarship programs are also available under different conditions. For details, see the “Financial Aid” page on the website of the Office of International Students.

A.04In the Japanese Course, students study not only the Japanese language, but also Japanese culture and society systematically and in depth, and through comparison with the language, culture and society of their own country. Many foreign people, even if they are fluent in Japanese and work for Japanese companies, feel that there is a communication barrier between them and Japanese people. The Japanese Course guides students to explore why such a barrier exists from the perspectives of language, culture and society, through both theoretical analysis and practical experience. Students can also take English-language subjects according to their proficiency levels. The Japanese Course aims to help students develop the ability to play a leading role in global society by leveraging their proficiency in Japanese, English and their own languages.

A.05Of course, the required qualities differ from company to company but in general, companies look for personnel with academic skills, specialized knowledge, and good social skills. Of these qualities, undergraduate students seeking employment should have good academic and social skills, but do not necessarily need specialized business knowledge, because this will be taught during graduate studies. Good social skills means the ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds in the workplace and the local community. International students are required to have the ability to communicate in Japanese and adapt to Japanese culture (e.g., a correct understanding of Japanese values and customs and adaptability to Japanese society). The main purpose of the Japanese Course is to help students develop this ability.

A.06Of course we do. The staff of the university’s Career Center provide advice to international students individually. The Center also organizes various seminars for international students to help them find jobs. The Japanese Course of the Faculty of Global Communications offers subjects that help international students find employment in Japan. Business Japanese, helps students to acquire the knowledge and communication skills necessary for finding a job and working at a Japanese company, and Workshop on Modern Japanese Society, helps students foster the ability to think and act together with co-workers and local residents. Furthermore, the small-class education at the Faculty of Global Communications enables us to identify the needs of individual students and provide support tailored to their needs.