learning and curriculum

INDEX
 
Learning

Learning in the International Department

4 year steps

1Annual
2Annual
Learn the basics of international relations and local culture in preparation for studying abroad,
Intensive study of each language
3Annual
4Annual
Utilizing the language skills and diverse perspectives cultivated through studying abroad
Deepen your understanding of your area of ​​expertise

Areas of specialization that can be learned

multilingual
English (required) + optional languages: French, German, Spanish, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, Japanese (international student track only)
International society and multicultural coexistence
Comparative culture theory, international society theory, etc.
Japanese Studies
Modern Japanese history, Japanese subculture theory, etc.
Area studies
America, Europe, Asia etc.
International Contribution/Regional Contribution
NGO activities and international contributions, development aid and economics, etc.
global career
Overseas Internship A/B etc.
International/Area Studies
International/Area Studies, Graduation Seminar, etc.
Curriculum Vitae

Curriculum

Acquire multilingual skills (English + 1 other language) and develop multifaceted thinking skills

An intensive language curriculum will develop students' language skills to a level where they can use them practically. Students will develop their English skills in ability-based classes, and after returning from studying abroad, all students will take English classes ("Study Abroad in Japan (DIS)") at TUJ (Temple University, Japan Campus). Students will thoroughly study the other language from the basics after enrollment, and while studying abroad, they will improve their language skills to an advanced level at a partner university. Before studying abroad, students will learn about the history and culture of the host country, while also broadening their knowledge of the international community and intercultural exchange. In Asia, Europe, and the United States, students will gain the ability to identify and solve problems through collaboration with local people. After returning home, students who have had various study abroad experiences will study together to cultivate diverse perspectives and deepen their learning. In the "International and Area Studies" course in the third and fourth years, students will hone their flexible and multifaceted imagination, thinking, and communication skills required in the international community.
1745487656069
*The host university may be subject to change.
*There are criteria and selection procedures for participation in the double degree program.
※The Korean curriculum study abroad destination will be decided through a selection process (some criteria apply).
*There are criteria and selection criteria for participation in exchange and privately funded study abroad programs.
*Students in the international student track are voluntary and cannot participate in double degree programs.
1744947150073
*This table shows only major subject names.Course names, etc. are subject to change.
*A track for international students will start in 2025.
*1 Students in the international student track will select Japanese.

Topics: Get a feel for the current state of the department 

Study Abroad in Japan
--In principle, all students will hone their English skills at TUJ in the second semester of their third year!

In the second semester of their third year, after returning from their study abroad, all students will study abroad in Japan at the Academic English Program at Temple University, Japan Campus (TUJ) in the Setagaya Campus. English is the official language at TUJ. Students will acquire real English skills through discussions and presentations.
1744950614699

Became a national civil servant after completing the Double Degree Program (DDP) at Sookmyung Women's University

At Sookmyung Women's University, I focused on Korean literature and Korean language education. In addition to improving my Korean language skills, I also gained specialized knowledge about Korea, the ability to see things from multiple perspectives, and the ability to act proactively. I am confident that I have been able to achieve results, such as winning an award for my graduation thesis on international Korean language education. I plan to start working as a national civil servant from this spring.
I would like to utilize the language skills and specialized knowledge I have acquired through the Sookmyung DDP to contribute to maintaining peace in East Asia. (Haru Sasaki, Class of 2024)
(Sookmyung vertical photo candidate②) International Topics Topics 6-2

International student track now open!
-Increased opportunities for international exchange within the department

The Department of International Studies has started a track for international students from the 2025 academic year. International students will take the curriculum of the Department of International Studies, but the foreign language for this track is "English + Japanese." Here in Setagaya, through the classes and activities of the Department of International Studies, students on the track for international students and regular track students who study "English + one language selected from Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, Spanish, German, or French" will have the opportunity to support each other and encounter and deepen their understanding of diverse cultures and values.

Click here for details on the International Student Track
Department of International Studies, International Student Track (Japanese)
Department of International Studies Specialized Course for Foreign Students (Chinese)
International Topics Topics 6-1

From the challenge of studying abroad in two countries to contributing to food culture

I studied abroad at Showa Boston and the language school attached to the University of Caen-Normandy in France. I was involved in a variety of activities, including volunteering and participating in local school clubs. Purchasing and cooking ingredients I had never seen before at a market was an unforgettable experience. My experience of a different food culture led me to aspire to contribute to international food culture exchange. During my job search, I received a job offer from a high-quality supermarket operator that specializes in imported foods. (Ishida Arisa, 4th year, International Studies Department)     
International Topics Topics 6-3
Project

Project-based learning

Showa Women's University conducts project-based learning in which students use their specialized knowledge to come up with solutions to problems that have no answers.
The department incorporates project-based learning in classes, exercises, and seminars.
Questions without answers
Utilizing our expertise
think of a solution
Project
  • International Symposium: "Interdisciplinary Research on Silk Road Sites in Mongolia: Focusing on Dogsheen Vargas"
  • Online Course (Korean Writing)
  • Tutoring by TUJ students
Graduation Theses

graduation research

Graduation research theme example

  • A look at Japan's official development assistance aimed at improving maternal and child health services
  • Have Indian casinos really enriched Native American tribes?
  • Spanish tapas culture and Japanese izakaya culture: A comparison of food cultures
  • Renewable energies and populism in Germany
  • A comparative study of female writers, Higuchi Ichiyo and Xiao Hong
  • Differences between the Chinese and Japanese views of "good wives and mothers" as seen in ancient documents
  • The transition of Japanese radio broadcasting in Korea
  • Effectiveness of supporting Japanese language education for children with foreign connections