In addition to the option of doing a full academic year, semester long programs are also available for fall and spring. The curriculum for both fall and spring (winter) semesters is made up of a 10-credit Japanese language course and one 3 or 4 credit elective course.
Intensive Japanese language is taught at four different levels, from beginning to advanced. No prior Japanese language study is necessary. Japanese language courses are 10 credits, covering a standard academic year's worth of material in one semester. Placement tests given at the beginning of the program are used to determine the appropriate level for each student. More information on the four levels may be found on the Japanese Language Course Academics page.
Elective courses are taught in English, either at JCMU or the neighboring Shiga University and University of Shiga Prefecture, and cover a range of Japanese culture related topics. More information on these courses, including syllabi, may be found on the Elective Course Academics page.
Beyond classroom training, JCMU students are able to apply their increasing language skills in the local community and throughout Japan. Field trips, demonstrations, and other activities, whether organized by the JCMU staff or initiated by students, complement language study.