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Academics

Fields of Study: Humanities and Social Sciences

At Keio University program, you have two programs to choose from: the Keio International Program or the Economics program (for economics and business majors only). You will explore topics on Japan and Asia or focus on business and economics, while simultaneously building your Japanese language skills.

Unique study opportunities

  • Build your career as an international professional through a program focused on law and economics.
  • Discover Japanese traditional arts, cinema, and history through Keio International Program courses.
  • Elevate your Japanese language skills through Keio Japanese Language courses.

Language

Language of Instruction: English, Japanese

Language Study: Optional

Language study is available from beginning through advanced levels. Your language level is determined by your score on a self-assessment test.

If you have advanced Japanese language proficiency, you may take courses taught in Japanese.

Courses and credit

Requirements While Abroad

To successfully complete this program:

  • Take a full-time course of study: Minimum of 21 quarter/14 semester UC units; usually 7 or 8 courses.
  • You may take up to one-third (33%) of your courses for pass/no pass credit.

Current Program Courses

Undergraduate UCEAP students choose from one of two tracks—the Keio International Program (KIP) or the Economics Program. 

Keio International Program (KIP)

Program specifically designed for exchange students with coursework that focuses on Japan and Asia. You can also take regular Keio University coursework taught in English or Japanese from the various faculties and graduate schools.

Students enrolled in KIP are able to take courses from any combination of:

  • International Center Courses
  • Courses offered by Faculty/Graduate schools
  • Keio Japanese Language Courses (KJC) 
Economics Program (Short-term International Students)

For economics and business majors only, this track offers a unique opportunity for UCEAP students to focus on economics coursework taught in English at Keio University. The main benefit of the economics track is that it gives you priority enrollment for courses in economics. 

In this track, you take courses from a combination of:

  • Faculty of Economics courses (at least four courses must be taken from the Faculty of Economics per semester)
  • International Center courses
  • Keio Japanese Language Courses (KJC)

Catalogs and resources

Keio University program and course information:

Other catalogs and resources:

  • UCEAP Course Catalog: See a list of courses students have taken on this program. This is not a current representation of course offerings on this program. Reference the above links to review recent course offerings. 
  • Campus Credit Abroad: Learn the types of credit (major, minor, general education, elective) students from your campus received at this location.

Academic culture

Japan is a country where courtesy and behavioral propriety are extremely important in all social interactions. Be respectful toward teachers at all times and sensitive to the cultural styles and ethics of Japanese society.

Most locals and Japanese professors will avoid correcting unacceptable behavior. Follow the example set by the Japanese students. If you have questions about what is considered acceptable behavior in Japan, talk to the study center staff.

Keio University has a western-style academic culture. Language courses are very small—approximately 20 students. Other courses are lecture and seminar style, focusing on class discussions, research projects and practical skills.

To be successful academically, you must take the initiative. Professors may not provide syllabi and, even if they do, may change the content of the course during the term. Check with each professor about specific course requirements, paper deadlines, exam dates, and any other matters related to your academic responsibilities.

Grades

You will earn direct UC credit and grades for all coursework. Final grades for this program are usually available in mid-October.

Some courses are similar to UC in their standards and grading system. Language courses in particular can be more demanding than at UC and the grading is often rigorous. Poor grades are often the result of excessive absences, tardiness, missing assignments, and lack of communication between UC students and instructors. Grading is typically conducted by detracting points for errors, rather than rewarding points for correct work. 

Tip: 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.