Faculty of Global Culture Department of Global Studies グローバルスタディーズ学科

Connecting the World through Culture

We aim to become people who connect the world through culture, transcending differences in countries, regions, cultural backgrounds, and values. While conducting fieldwork overseas, students in the International Cultural Studies major acquire practical English language skills and the ability to take action in order to learn about global issues, make changes, and live in harmony with the world. The International Japanese Studies major deals with a wide range of Japanese culture, including manga, anime, games, music, and movies, and also deepens students' understanding of the Japanese language and broadens their perspectives. One of the major features of both majors is that students can learn about the traditional culture of each country and region, its background history, religion, society, and all other subjects from a variety of perspectives. Students can deepen their understanding of different cultures and their own culture based on their own interests and concerns, and gain the ability to think about themselves in a relative perspective. To survive in an increasingly complex global society, it is important to accept different values and to change flexibly. The Department of Global Studies nurtures students throughout their four years of study to become people who can act proactively and change society based on their own themes, without limiting their field of study.

A Unique Curriculum

  • Develop an international mindset by learning about cultures

    By studying and comparing different regions and cultures, students can gain the multifaceted perspectives needed in an international society. Thinking from multiple perspectives gives you the power to explore new paths through dialogue, without denying values and cultures that are different from your own. In an increasingly complex global society, students will hone their true internationality toward harmonious coexistence.

  • Decide on your own theme and conduct research in various parts of the world

    Students spend approximately six months conducting research in the U.S., Canada, New Zealand, the Philippines, South Korea, Taiwan, France, and Spain, or in Kyoto, Kanto, Hokkaido, and Okinawa. Students deepen their research themes through actual visits and encounters with a wide variety of people and places.

Choosing one of three courses in the second year

A Unique Curriculum

Long-term fieldwork worldwide (Year 2)

In Second year, by staying in various parts of the world for an extended period of time and communicating with a diverse range of people, students deepen their understanding of different cultures. By living in local communities, we examine the issues facing not only Japan but also the world in more concrete terms. We will explore ways to overcome language and cultural differences and live in affluence, based on local experiences. Those interested in Japanese culture may choose to base their studies in Kyoto or other parts of Japan.

Learning Outcomes

■ Practical language skills and a breadth of knowledge and experience through the fieldwork at the center of the learning process
Students gain a breadth of knowledge and experience by preparing for, carrying out, and reflecting on the long-term fieldwork overseas central to their studies. They fearlessly tackle the unknown to gather necessary information during fieldwork and forge their own path.

■ Faculty with rich international experience oversee the supervision of students
The supervising faculty are active field workers who are engaged in research in many countries and regions worldwide. They pass on the knowledge and skills they have gained through their extensive experience to students, including effective research techniques and safety tips.

Careers

  • International business (trading companies, manufacturers, and foreign companies)
  • Companies promoting Japanese and global cultures (event planning, travel, and tourism)
  • Publishing, advertising, and mass media- Education (junior/senior high school teacher)
  • NGOs/NPOs, social enterprise, research


and many more