University

Faculty of Social Sciences

Department of International Communication

The Department of International Communication seeks to cultivate students who can understand the complex changes in global society and can respond positively, and with a global perspective. Based on this objective, the curriculum has been constructed so that students may acquire the specialized knowledge and broad perspective necessary to become independent, internationally-minded women.

Classes are offered in the areas of regional studies, Japan studies, and intercultural understanding. In the classes on regional studies, students examine the society, culture, and history of various regions, including Asia, the Middle East, North and South America, Europe, and Africa. In the classes on Japan studies, students examine the characteristics of Japanese culture, society, and language from global perspectives. In the classes on intercultural understanding, students study issues relating to multiculturalism and learn skills for intercultural communication.

Many classes aim to develop students’ ability to communicate in English. English education classes include basic classes for re-learning the fundamentals of English, advanced classes that aim at a high level of English language competence, and classes that help students prepare for overseas study. Students also have the opportunity to study issues such as politics, international problems, and gender in English. In particular, overseas study programs have been incorporated into the curriculum, and all students have the opportunity to participate in overseas language study programs in the second half of their second year. Through language study that raises their communication abilities and through the experience of studying with people from around the world, students learn how to live and participate actively in foreign countries.

All students in the Department of International Communication participate in small seminar classes from their first through their fourth year. Through intellectual exchanges with their seminar professors, students develop their capacity for problem-solving and logical thought. In their fourth year, they complete their university education by writing a graduation thesis.