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JCMU - Teaching English in Japan (Outgoing Program) Print  Save  Share
  • Locations: Hikone, Japan
  • Program Terms: Spring/Summer
  • Homepage: Click to visit
  • Program Sponsor: Japan Center for Michigan Universities 
  • Dates / Deadlines
Fact Sheet:
Fact Sheet:
Language of Instruction: English Minimum GPA: 2.5
Housing Options: Dormitory Subject(s): Education
Program Description:

PROGRAM DETAILS

Length: 4 weeks, May-June (see Academic Calendar)
Credits: 6
Location: Shiga Prefecture, Japan
Housing: JCMU Residence Hall
Eligibility: Minimum 2.5 GPA, open to students of all majors
Program fees: Teaching English in Japan budget sheet
Tuition discounts: Students attending a JCMU Consortium school pay a discounted rate 

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

Learn the needs and characteristics of ESL students in Japan while exploring the country's culture. Explore about the unique cultural differences between how English is taught in Japan, and compare it with English language classrooms in the United States.

You will get a chance to observe all levels of English classrooms, from elementary to post-high school. Are you an upper-level TESOL student? Then consider taking the practicum option while you are on the program.

CLASSES

You will take the following classes while you are on the program: 

  • (3 credits) TESOL Methods Course/Practicum: You will participate in a course focusing on national and international approaches to ESL teaching while observing various ESL classrooms and settings. Rather than merely studying about TESOL methods from a textbook though, you will have the opportunity to actually travel to and observe various English language classrooms both at JCMU and at local school! Upper-level TESOL students can choose to take a TESOL practicum course in lieu of the normal TESOL methods course.

    While taking this course, you will gain a deeper understanding of the characteristics and needs of ESL education in Japan, providing you with practical skills and knowledge for a career in TESOL. This experience will be especially useful if you are planning on teaching English in Japan on the JET program (or other similar teaching opportunities) in the future. 
     
  • (3 credits) Japanese Culture & Society Course: This course will present you with the opportunity to further explore the foundations of Japanese culture and society and how they shape the lives of the Japanese people, which will help you fully understand the similarities and differences in teaching methods that you notice in your TESOL methods course. Classroom lectures will be enhanced with guest lectures, site visits, and Japanese cultural demonstrations and activities.

ALUMNI TESTIMONIALS AND MORE

Want to learn what past students have said about their time in Hikone? Or do you want to read about what our recent students have been up to? Then visit the Alumni Testimonials and Events sections of the JCMU Official Blog!

College Classroom VisitationExploring Japanese NatureWorking w/Elementary SchoolersHigh School Classroom Visit



Dates / Deadlines:
Dates / Deadlines:
Term Year App Deadline Decision Date Start Date End Date
Spring/Summer 2026 02/15/2026 ** Rolling Admission TBA TBA

** Indicates rolling admission application process. Applicants will be immediately notified of acceptance into this program and be able to complete post-decision materials prior to the term's application deadline.