Academics

Fields of Study: Social Sciences

As an international student, you can become part of the academic community at Hitotsubashi University, an engaging Japanese campus environment. Hitotsubashi University offers coursework taught in Japanese and English, and its undergraduate programs include five faculties for UCEAP students: Commerce and Management, Economics, Law, Social Sciences and Social Data Science.

Unique study opportunities

  • Get the complete Japanese university experience with an international community of students.
  • Enjoy small class sizes on a campus with the ambience of an Ivy League institution.
  • Access strong coursework taught in English in the fields of business, economics, international studies, and sociology.

Language

Language of Instruction: English, Japanese

Japanese Language Study: Optional

Japanese language study is available from beginning to advanced levels (placement exam after arrival). Course units range from 2 to 10 Hitotsubashi units (3 to 15 UC quarter units).

Courses and credit

Requirements While Abroad

To successfully complete this program:

  • Take a full-time course of study: Minimum 21 quarter/14 semester UC units; usually 7 to 10 courses.
  • You can take a third (33%) of your courses per term for pass/no pass credit.

Current Program Courses

You will finalize your study plans and register for classes after arrival.

There are three types of courses available to UCEAP students:

  • Hitotsubashi Global Education Program (HGP)—Interdisciplinary courses, typically lower-division, taught in English. Choose from a variety of courses in the social sciences in the fields of Business, Economics, Law, Sociology, IT and others. The program also includes courses specifically designed for exchange students.
  • General Education—Courses are mainly taught in Japanese and include foreign languages, mathematics, information, natural science, sports, general courses, Japanese language, and Japanese affairs.
  • Undergraduate Courses—Courses are mainly taught in Japanese through the five faculties of Commerce and Management, Economics, Law, Social Sciences and Social Data Science. 

Each Hitotsubashi faculty categorizes courses differently. For example, the School of Social Sciences categorizes courses as introductory, intermediate, advanced, seminar, and other. The introductory and many intermediate courses are usually assigned lower-division UC credit. The advanced and seminar courses are usually upper-division. The Global Education Program offers general education courses which are typically lower division or specialized courses which are typically upper division. 

Research

Research and independent study are possible at Hitotsubashi University. Arrangements are made after arrival in Japan.​

Catalogs and resources

Academic culture

Japan's collectivist culture places a high value on punctuality, courtesy, and proper conduct. As an exchange student, it's crucial to be sensitive to these societal norms and values. To ensure a smooth and enriching experience in Japan, it's essential to prepare for the country's academic and cultural norms. Even learning a few basic Japanese greetings can foster more meaningful connections with the people you meet.

If you're unsure about appropriate behavior in Japan, research different facets of Japanese culture before arrival; observe how locals conduct their daily lives, and/or consult the Study Center. Japanese professors and acquaintances are unlikely to point out cultural missteps directly, but your actions will be noticed and can reflect on both you and the program. 

Compared to the UC system, Japanese universities have a different academic culture. Japanese and other international students tend to be less focused on grades, and courses are often less structured; professors may not provide a detailed syllabus or might alter the content mid-term. However, classroom expectations are more formal. Attendance is mandatory, with tardiness often counting toward an absence. The student-professor relationship is also more hierarchical, where professors are viewed as the ultimate authority and are seldom challenged. 

Grades

You will earn direct UC credit and grades for all coursework. Final grades for this program are usually available in October.  Requests for early grades cannot be accommodated. If you intend to put yourself on your campus degree list for graduation while on UCEAP, consult your campus advisors before departure about possible delays in the degree verification process. 

In Japanese universities, professors typically do not provide detailed rubrics; provide feedback on written work, or return final exams. The grade you receive is generally considered sufficient feedback. Language courses are known to be more demanding than at UC and focus more on reading and writing, often with rigorous grading. 

Poor grades are often caused by tardiness, excessive absences, missed assignments, and a lack of communication with instructors. Attendance at all classes, field trips, and academic events is required and is often factored into your final grade, unless you are formally excused for a valid reason.