Welcome to the official JCMU website

The Japan Center for Michigan Universities (JCMU) study abroad program is a product of the strong sister-state relationship between the State of Michigan and Shiga Prefecture. It is located on the shore of Lake Biwa in the City of Hikone, Shiga Prefecture, Japan. Our programs are dedicated to building relationships between Japanese, Americans, and other nationalities through active learning and participation in language, culture, family life and society. JCMU has been welcoming students of all majors since 1989. Students do not need to attend a member university to participate.

Visit our Newly Admitted Students Page for additional important information on how to prepare for your program.

Pre-Departure Orientation for May, Summer and Fall Programs will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2008 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the MSU International Center. Both students and Parents are welcome to join. Please RSVP to the JCMU office if you plan to attend.

JCMU Applications Deadlines:

What's New @ JCMU...

Now Online - JCMU YouTube Videos!

and 2008 May Short Course Offerings

• Join JCMU's E-mail Listserve, JCMUNET.
• Predeparture Orientation (May, Summer, Fall, and Academic Year Programs) information updated on the Newly Admitted Students page.
• JCMU Hosts MI Governor Jennifer Granholm and Presidents Coleman (UoM), Reid (WSU), and Simon (MSU) - On July 26, 2005 JCMU hosted a reception for Michigan's Governor Granholm, MSU President Simon, UofM President Coleman, and WSU President Reid.  All the VIPs had a wonderful experience meeting with JCMU students, US Pavilion Guides, MSU Freshman Seminar participants, and JCMU faculty and staff.  On the 27th, the Governor and Presidents hosted at biotech seminar in Osaka.  This visit was a wonderful opportunity for these VIPs to see JCMU and enhance their understanding of the program.
• The JCMU-Hikone Office has created an excellent new website. Please check it out for general program information.
• Additional Items of Interest:
• Learn about Japanese holidays from a JCMU alum.
• Check out the adventures of Dan in Japan, a former JCMU student.
• The Shiga Project is a great site created by JCMU students in 1996.

Emergency Contact Information

In case of emergency, please use the following contact information for JCMU:

• During weekday business hours contact the JCMU Program Office in E. Lansing - 517-355-4654
• To contact the JCMU Hikone Office (in Japan) directly call - 011-81-749-26-3400
• MSU Emergency Assistance line - 517-353-3784

• Japan Center of Michigan Universities
• 110 MSU International Center, E. Lansing, MI 48824-1035 U.S.A
• Tel: (517) 355-4654 Fax: (517) 353-8727
• Email: JCMU@msu.edu
• Please include your mailing address and phone number when corresponding.