Program
The Study in Kyoto Program (SKP) brings together students from around the world.  It offers numerous courses in Japanese language and culture, utilizing the extensive historical and cultural resources of the ancient city of Kyoto.  The program also offers courses in English regarding both Japan-related and business subjects.  

Location
Kyoto is home to some of Japan's most important World Heritage Sites such as the Ryoanji, Ninnaji and Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) Temples, which are located right at the doorstep of Ritsumeikan University.  It enjoys a harmonious blend of the ancient and the modern, thus giving students the unique opportunity to experience all aspects of Japanese society.  By studying in the SKP at Ritsumeikan University, students are able to take advantage of the rich academic and cultural environment of this city, leading to a truly fruitful and memorable study experience in Japan.

Course Information
The Study in Kyoto Program (SKP) offers three different tracks for students, but only TWO (IJL and BT) are open to W&M Students:  

• Intensive Japanese Language (IJL)
  • Created in 1988, the Intensive Japanese Language Track has a long history of providing high-quality intensive Japanese language instruction to international students.  Class sizes are kept small, between 10 -15 students, allowing our experienced instructors to cater to the needs of each student individually.
  • IJL offers well balanced language skill courses in listening, speaking, reading, and writing at a variety of levels from Introductory to Advanced.  Students without any previous experience with the Japanese language can enroll.  Students enrolled in the IJL Track may also take courses offered in English through the Open Study in English Track and Business Track.
     
• Business Track (BT)
  • Launched in 2009 at Biwako-Kusatsu Campus, the Business Track features a fascinating combination of courses offered by the College of Business Administration.  Instruction is held entirely in English, giving you a first-hand, insider's look at business in one of the world's largest economies.  The program offers you a unique opportunity to study business with an international and intercultural perspective as you study alongside your fellow students from all around the world.  As a Business Track student, you are also eligible to take courses from the OSE class offerings in English by other faculties at RU.  The Business Track and the Faculty of Business Administration are at the Osaka-Ibaraki Campus, approximately an hour from the main Kyoto campus.

W&M students may enroll in either of the above tracks.  

Students may take courses, depending upon availability, in the Open Study in English Track (OSE), but not as their main track.  

Students will receive direct credit from Ritsumeikan University for all courses.  Please note that any courses transferring as Japanese credits (language or otherwise) can only be post-approved.

Accommodations
Ritsumeikan International House (I-House) Dormitories.
Ritsumeikan manages three International Houses.  One of the best parts of the Study in Kyoto Program is the sense of community that develops among the students.  Students from around the world share one living space, giving you the opportunity to learn about other customs and cultures on top of experiencing daily life in Japan.  I-House TOWIKA, UTANO, and TAISHOGUN are all equipped with everything a college student would need:  fully furnished rooms, laundry facilities, lounges, kitchens, free internet access, and computer rooms.

The sense of community is further accentuated by the live-in managers and buddies.  Each I-House is taken care of by Japanese house parents who also act as managers, so assistance is always just a few doors down.  The Japanese I-House Buddies assist you when you first move in, help you as you adjust to living in Japan, and organize dormitory events throughout the year.  Together, the managers and the buddies provide a unique and enjoyable cross-cultural living experience.  All dormitories are located within 30 minutes of Kinugasa Campus by public transportation and are within easy access to bicycle.  

More information on the individual houses can be found on their website above.

Application
Students will apply directly to their SKP program of choice (IJL or BT for W&M students) directly to Ritsumeikan University.   Information can be found here.

Students will need to register through the Global Education Office at W&M by the respective deadlines for Fall and Spring semesters.