Are you interested in studying at Japanese universities? Do you want to learn about Japan’s university application and enrollment processes, as well as the types of programs on offer?
This course will help you to both discover great programs offered by different Japanese universities and prepare a study plan through project-based learning.
We introduce a number of options to match a variety of goals, from full degree to non-degree programs, programs taught in English, as well as short-term programs in Japan. During the course, international students at UTokyo will provide you with useful information and advice to start you on the path to studying in Japan.
At the end of this course, you will produce a draft of your action plan for applying to Japanese universities. The overall goal of the course is to start you off on the right foot to a happy, productive and fulfilling student life in Japan!
Welcome! This module introduces Japan's higher education system, explaining why it is a top choice for international students. You will learn about diverse Japanese universities and hear directly from current students at the University of Tokyo about their experiences. By the end, you will identify key reasons to pursue education in Japan and prepare for your learning journey. Consider what you hope to gain from studying in Japan.
What's included
8 videos2 readings4 assignments
Show info about module content
8 videos•Total 29 minutes
Introduction•2 minutes
Japanese School Education System part 1•3 minutes
Japanese School Education System part 2•1 minute
Why Japan? part 1•3 minutes
Why Japan? part 2•7 minutes
Student Voices part 1•8 minutes
Tips for learning•3 minutes
Why Japan?•2 minutes
2 readings•Total 20 minutes
Welcome to Studying at Japanese Universities - Guidance Information•10 minutes
Guiding Questions for week 1•10 minutes
4 assignments•Total 74 minutes
Week 1 Quiz•20 minutes
Why Japan?•30 minutes
Week 1: Practice quiz 1•12 minutes
Week 1: Practice quiz 2•12 minutes
Japanese University Application Process
Module 2•3 hours to complete
Module details
This module covers the different types of programs and the application process for Japanese universities. You will learn about various program options in Japan, understanding that application requirements differ. By the end, you will identify suitable programs and begin your research. Share your findings to refine your choices. Focus on program details and application deadlines.
Other topics: Research student (kenkyusei)•2 minutes
Selecting your program•1 minute
Typical questions from students•4 minutes
2 readings•Total 40 minutes
Guiding Questions for week 2•10 minutes
Find a school you are interested in•30 minutes
2 assignments•Total 90 minutes
Week 2 Quiz•30 minutes
Find your target program•60 minutes
1 discussion prompt•Total 20 minutes
Activity 3: Share your thoughts part 2•20 minutes
Student Life and Culture in Japan
Module 3•2 hours to complete
Module details
This module explores key aspects of student life in Japan, from settling in and managing daily life to building friendships and enjoying campus activities. Current University of Tokyo students share their experiences with housing, language support, transportation, cultural adjustment, scholarships, living costs, and part-time work. By the end of this module, you will have a clearer picture of what student life in Japan can look like and what to expect as you prepare for your own experience.
What's included
12 videos1 reading1 assignment1 discussion prompt
Show info about module content
12 videos•Total 66 minutes
Settling in Japan part 1•12 minutes
Settling in Japan part 2•5 minutes
Student Voices part 3•5 minutes
Social Life and Recreation•8 minutes
Tuition & Living Costs part 1•6 minutes
Tuition & Living Costs part 2•8 minutes
Part-Time Jobs•8 minutes
Cultural issues•3 minutes
Part-time jobs, internships, and employment•2 minutes
Student life in Japan•4 minutes
Tuition and scholarships•2 minutes
Your typical weekday and weekend schedule in Japan•3 minutes
1 reading•Total 25 minutes
Guiding Questions for week 3•25 minutes
1 assignment•Total 16 minutes
Week 3 Quiz•16 minutes
1 discussion prompt•Total 30 minutes
Activity 4: Share your thoughts part 3•30 minutes
Planning Your Japanese Education Journey
Module 4•2 hours to complete
Module details
In this final module, you will hear from students about academic life at Japanese universities and learn practical advice for preparing to study in Japan. Their experiences highlight classroom expectations, language learning, academic challenges, and ways to make the most of university life. By the end of this module, you will bring together what you have learned across the course and develop a concrete action plan for your study journey in Japan.
What's included
7 videos1 assignment1 discussion prompt
Show info about module content
7 videos•Total 24 minutes
Academic Life in Japan part 1•5 minutes
Academic Life in Japan part 2•7 minutes
Advice from Students part 1•4 minutes
Advice from Students part 2•4 minutes
Course Wrap-Up•1 minute
Next steps after course•0 minutes
Starting a new life in Japan•4 minutes
1 assignment•Total 60 minutes
Planning to study in Japan•60 minutes
1 discussion prompt•Total 15 minutes
Activity 5: Share your thoughts part 4•15 minutes
Instructors
Instructor ratings
Instructor ratings
We asked all learners to give feedback on our instructors based on the quality of their teaching style.
The University of Tokyo was established in 1877 as the first national university in Japan. As a leading research university, UTokyo offers courses in essentially all academic disciplines at both undergraduate and graduate levels and conducts research across the full spectrum of academic activity.
"To be able to take courses at my own pace and rhythm has been an amazing experience. I can learn whenever it fits my schedule and mood."
Jennifer J.
Learner since 2020
"I directly applied the concepts and skills I learned from my courses to an exciting new project at work."
Larry W.
Learner since 2021
"When I need courses on topics that my university doesn't offer, Coursera is one of the best places to go."
Chaitanya A.
"Learning isn't just about being better at your job: it's so much more than that. Coursera allows me to learn without limits."
Learner reviews
4.8
455 reviews
5 stars
82.85%
4 stars
14.06%
3 stars
2.19%
2 stars
0.43%
1 star
0.43%
Showing 3 of 455
R
RJ
5·
Reviewed on Sep 16, 2017
Detailed and very helpful! This course really helped me gain insight on what to prepare to apply for Japanese universities and also Japanese culture and lifestyle!
F
FS
5·
Reviewed on Oct 15, 2018
It is very helpful for people think about studying in Japan. It helps for culture, lifestyle, food and how much life is cost. Thanks to all.
D
DC
5·
Reviewed on Oct 11, 2018
I did enjoy the course but the videos got a little tedious. It's great for those who are interested in studying in Japan
What types of programs are available for study in Japanese universities?
Japanese universities offer various programs, including full degree programs, non-degree options, and short-term study. Many programs are taught in English, catering to international students.
What is the application process for higher education in Japan?
The application process for Japanese higher education involves researching specific university requirements, preparing necessary documents, and submitting applications. This course guides you through planning your application.
Can I pursue a degree in Japan if I only speak English?
Yes, many Japanese universities offer full degree programs taught entirely in English. This course helps you identify these English language programs and prepare for your studies.
What should I expect from student life in Japan?
Student life in Japan offers a unique cultural and academic experience. You will learn about daily life, campus activities, and support services for international students to ensure a smooth transition.
How can this course help me achieve my education goals in Japan?
This course provides clarity on Japanese education options, builds confidence in your application planning, and offers a low-risk starting point for your learning journey toward a degree in Japan.
When will I have access to the lectures and assignments?
To access the course materials, assignments and to earn a Certificate, you will need to purchase the Certificate experience when you enroll in a course. You can try a Free Trial instead, or apply for Financial Aid. The course may offer 'Full Course, No Certificate' instead. This option lets you see all course materials, submit required assessments, and get a final grade. This also means that you will not be able to purchase a Certificate experience.
What will I get if I purchase the Certificate?
When you purchase a Certificate you get access to all course materials, including graded assignments. Upon completing the course, your electronic Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile.
Is financial aid available?
Yes. In select learning programs, you can apply for financial aid or a scholarship if you can’t afford the enrollment fee. If fin aid or scholarship is available for your learning program selection, you’ll find a link to apply on the description page.