The Study in Kyoto Program (SKP) at Ritsumeikan University (RU) offers students a wide variety of courses in the ancient capital city of Kyoto. RU is one of the most internationally-focused universities in Japan, and SKP attracts students from every corner of the globe. Students who participate in SKP will improve their Japanese skills, learn more about Japanese culture, and meet people from all over the world.

Academic Calendar

Spring (first) Semester

April - July

Fall (second) Semester

September - March

Due to the differences between the AU and RU academic calendars, students are only able to to participate in the spring semester or for the academic year beginning in the fall.

Courses

Students will enroll full-time for either one semester or one year alongside RU undergraduate students. Students can choose to enroll in one of three program tracks as detailed below:

• Intensive Japanese Language (IJL): Open to all students who want intensive language classes. Students take 9 hours of Japanese language coursework per week in addition to English-language electives offered through the Japan and World Perspectives (JWP) track.
• Open Study in English (OSE): Open to all students. Students take English language courses on various international relations topics and may enroll in a beginner-level Japanese language class.
• Business (BT): For students with a background in business, but little or no experience with the Japanese language. Students take courses taught in English by the College of Business Administration. 

Students in the Program also have the opportunity to enroll in a Japanese Traditional Arts class.

Language Requirement

Proficiency in Japanese is not required, as many courses at SKP are conducted in English. However, students should study the language before going to Japan to gain communication skills for daily life in Kyoto.