Sophia University
Introduction
Tokyo, Japan is home to Sophia University. The university's central location within the city puts students a short distance from any number of local attractions: the National Diet (Japan's congress) and the administrative district, the Imperial Palace, the National Guest House, and much more. Shinjuku, one of the most exciting areas in Tokyo, is a 5-minute train ride away from Yotsuya, the nearest station to campus.
Academics & Curriculum
Applicants to this program should be aware that 4 Sophia University (SU) credits equal 3 CUA credits. For that reason, most participants enroll in 20 SU credits. There are courses available in English and Japanese, the majority of which will be worth 2 (90 min./week) or 4 (180 min./week) SU credits. Additionally, students in this program are required to enroll in a Japanese language course. Options include the 4-SU credit regular language course or the 8-SU credit intensive language course. Students may only take 12 of their total SU credits in Global Studies, one of the four graduate programs offered at Sophia University.
Students looking for information on the available courses, including course syllabi, should look here.
Accommodations & Meals
Accommodations are guaranteed for exchange students. There are seven off campus housing options: five of which are co-ed dormitories, two are single-sex dormitories – all women and all men. Additional information about housing is available.
All housing options include a single room and are furnished with internet, air-conditioner, bed, desk, chair, closet, bookshelf, lighting, desk lamp, curtains, refrigerator, washroom, and a trash can. The shared facilities are cafeteria, lounge, gym, tennis court, music room, kitchen, shower room, laundry room, and a bicycle parking area. The all-men’s dormitory includes 2 meals per day: breakfast and supper.
Sophia University is located in the heart of Tokyo, making the cost of living near campus very expensive. Reasonable housing is located in the suburbs and so exchange students should expect a 45-90 min. commute to campus. The train and subway systems in Tokyo are well-developed but will be very crowded during the morning rush hours.
After acceptance, exchange students may have the opportunity to apply for an additional scholarship through Sophia University to assist with housing and living expenses.
Scholarships
Additional information and scholarship options can be found on the the study abroad
scholarships webpage.
Exchange Scholars
Exchange Scholar programs at The Catholic University of America provide an immersive international experience for a limited number of highly qualified students. This exclusive opportunity enables students to study at a select group of prestigious universities worldwide. Exchange partner schools are selected on the basis of mission, academic excellence, dedication to internationalization, and a commitment to research.
