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Who can study there?
Marquette students with junior standing may study at Sophia University.
What are the programs dates?
The fall semester runs from late September to mid-February, and the spring semester runs from mid-March to mid-July. Because of the incompatibility of the dates, students will most likely not be able to attend Sophia University during the fall semester only; however, if combined with the spring, students may spend an entire academic year there.
Do I need to know Japanese?
No, although a background will be helpful. Courses are taught in English, but the national language is Japanese. However, you will be required to take a Japanese language class each semester.
Will my financial aid transfer?
Because this is a Marquette-exchange program, most financial aid generally applies. To learn more about how this program will affect your specific financial aid package, please see the Office of Student Financial Aid.
Do I need a visa? How do I get a visa?
Yes, you need to apply at least 3 months in advance for your visa.
Do I need vaccinations before I travel?
Visit the Center for Disease Control's Traveler's Health Web site and/or SOS International for vaccination information.
Who will my classmates be?
Your classmates will be students from Japan and the rest of the world.
How many classes are taken per semester, on average?
Students usually take four classes per semester.
How many credits can I earn?
The number of credits for these classes ranges from 12 to 16 credits.
What subjects are offered?
Business, Economics, Japanese language, Philosophy, Political Science, History, Theology, Psychology, and Sociology are a few. A list of classes will be available when you apply.
Will my grades transfer? What are passing grades?
Sophia University has a different scale than Marquette. Students will need to earn a grade of C (79%-70%) or above in order to transfer credits back to Marquette. Please note that students will only transfer the credits and not the grades from these classes.
Where will I live?
There are three off-campus dorms, two for women and one for men. All rooms are fully furnished and provide compact but comfortable accommodation. Dormitory life at Sophia is encouraged as a way to meet and interact with students. However, the university Office of Student Affairs will assist students in finding private apartments if desired. Rentals are signed for annual periods of time
Is there an orientation?
Yes, there is an orientation before the classes begin each semester.
What is public transportation like?
Travel around Tokyo is relatively easy with its efficient, extensive subway system that supports 4 to 5 million commuters a day. Nearly all station stops are marked in English. Although buses and taxies are available, students will likely find little need to use them.
How do I get around?
For travel throughout Japan, there are various train options. The high-speed Shinkansen train covers the distance from Kyushu to Hokkaido. The Shinkansen has two systems: the Hikari super-express train, and the Kodoma, which makes intermediate stops. The rides are very smooth even at speeds of 136 miles per hour. The trains have buffet cars and telephones. Tokyo's huge Ueno Station is the bullet train service of the Tohoku and Joetsu Shinkansen to the northern regions of Japan's main Honshu Island.
What is the weather like?
The climate in Japan varies greatly. Most of the country experiences four seasons; winters bring crisp cold in Tokyo, while summers are raining and humid. The average daytime temperature from April to October is around 60° F.
What is the cost of living compared to the United States?
As of June 2005, the currency rate was 1 USD for 109 Japanese Yen. It should also be noted that tipping is not a common practice in Japan. Gifts and other small tokens of appreciation are often given, however. Also, you will not find items made in Japan to be less expensive than in the U.S. In fact, many items are more expensive.
How can I learn more about the city?
Tokyo is best described as a bubbling city of bright lights. Best of all, however, is the opportunity to hide away in the city’s many tranquil gardens, shrines, or temples. Tokyo, north and east of the Imperial Palace, embodies the city’s history and traditional way of life, whereas the contemporary section is more in the south and west. The nightlife is crazy and also somewhat hazardous to your wallet. Few bars and clubs have printed price lists, and those who do rarely have lists in English. Drinks can be expensive, and there can be hidden cover charges. For more information, please see Fodor's online guide.
What is the application deadline?
Applications must be received by October 1 for the spring term, and March 1 for the fall term.
How do I apply?
Program specific applications are available from Dr. Jamshid Hosseini in Straz
Hall 101.
Required Materials for Marquette University
See the Applying for Study Abroad Page to see Marquette's requirements.
Marquette Requirements Deadline
October 1 for the spring semester and March 1 for the fall semester, summer term, or academic year.
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