Academics

Fields of Study: Science, Engineering

The Engineering and Science Program at Tohoku University offers science, engineering, and Japanese language and culture courses taught in English through the Junior Year Program in English (JYPE). You can also take courses taught in Japanese or English from other departments.

All UCEAP students participate in a research group (lab) with Japanese and international students under the supervision of Tohoku University faculty. Tohoku University has a wide variety of research groups to meet student interests. You will be placed in a group based on your research proposal (statement of purpose) submitted prior to departure.

Unique study opportunities

  • Learn research techniques, like fluorescence, electron, and infrared spectroscopy.
  • Practice tissue and micro-organism culture techniques.
  • Participate in breeding, growth, and rearing experiments.

Language

Language of Instruction: English, Japanese

Language Study: Optional

Japanese language study is available. Courses taught in Japanese are open to UC students with the requisite language skills (near native fluency).

Courses and credit

Requirements While Abroad

To successfully complete this program:

  • Take a full-time course of study: Five courses for a minimum of 21 quarter/14 semester UC units. Taking more than 27 units is not recommended.
  • Take a lab research course for 8 quarter/5.3 semester or 15 quarter/10 semester UC units each term. Taking this course for a letter grade is recommended.
  • You can take up to 1/3 (33%) of your units for pass/no pass credit.

Current Program Courses

This program has a required lab research component. Available labs are in various disciplines through the following faculties. Click on the name of the faculty and the respective departments for the list of researchers and research fields available.  Previous lab placements are noted in the parentheses below.  

You may participate in the regular research component for 15 to 20 hours per week (8 quarter/5.3 semester UC units) or you may participate in a more intensive research opportunity for approximately 30 hours per week (15 quarter/10 semester UC units). The intensive lab option requires the approval of the lab supervisor.

To fulfill the remaining program requirements, students may choose Japanese language and culture courses, STEM courses taught in English from JYPE, or courses taught in English or Japanese from other departments.

JYPE is intended for juniors and seniors and many courses are advanced and are assigned upper-division UC credit. The language and culture courses are typically assigned lower-division UC credit.

Graduate level courses are not open to undergraduate students. Graduate students may participate in the Tohoku University Cooperative Laboratory Study Program (COLABS). COLABS offers a wide range of research topics in all fields of natural science.

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 and prepare for these societal norms and values. 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. 

Anticipate that this program will be different from previous classroom or research experiences at the UC.  It will require a high degree of self-efficacy, cultural acumen, and resilience. Each lab research group is unique and has its own culture and dynamic depending on the leading professor, the research assistants, and the research subject area. Follow your supervisor's instructions, observe your peers, and be proactive about asking questions if anything is unclear. 

Grades

You will earn direct UC credit and grades for all coursework. Final grades are usually available in late 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.

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. Assessments are typically based on oral presentations, seminar presentation and participation, and written lab reports.