STEM Research in Osaka

Unique study opportunities

• Learn how to read scientific papers and apply the latest information to your research projects.
• Design and conduct your own independent research project with a faculty mentor’s guidance.
• Discover the best ways to present your research and make it accessible in cross-cultural settings.

Language

Language Study: Optional

Courses and credit

Requirements While Abroad

To successfully complete this program:

• Take a full-time course of study:
  • Fall and spring: Lab research for a total of 21 quarter/14 semester UC units.
  • Summer: Lab research for a total of 12 quarter/8 semester UC units.
• Letter grade required for research course. 

Current Program Courses

In this intensive research program, you will participate in The University of Osaka Frontier Lab for approximately 30 hours per week.

Fall and Spring Lab Placement Examples:

• Engineering (Mechanical Engineering, Electrical and Electronic Engineering)
• Engineering Science (Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering)
• Information Science and Technology (Data Science, Computer Science, Information System Engineering)
• Natural Science (Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, Earth and Space Science)
• Medicine (Immunology, Bioscience, Neuroscience, Pharmaceutical Sciences)

During the fall or spring semester, you may take one or two international exchange subjects through the University of Osaka Short-term Student Exchange Program (OUSSEP), or regular university courses, in addition to the lab research. All courses through OUSSEP, except Japanese language courses, are taught in English and are mostly lower-division. While the number of courses offered in English is limited, regular undergraduate University of Osaka courses are open (prerequisites still need to be met, and graduate level courses are not possible). 

The University of Osaka also offers Japanese language courses from introductory to advanced levels. 

Summer Lab Placement Examples:

• Engineering Science
• Information Science and Technology (including Statistics, Data Science)
• Mechanical and Electrical Engineering (including Robotics)
• Natural Science

Additional coursework for academic credit is not available during the summer program. 

Catalogs and resources

• The University of Osaka Frontier Lab Outline: All UCEAP students participate in Frontier Lab D.
• The University of Osaka Research Fields: Learn about current research at the university.
• Courses Taught in English at The University of Osaka: Browse additional course options available during the fall and spring terms.
• UCEAP Course Catalog: See a list of courses UC students have taken on this program.
• Campus Credit Abroad: Learn the types of credit (major, minor, general education, elective) students from your campus received at this location.

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. Grades for fall are usually available in mid-April. Spring and summer grades are usually available in mid-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.