Description

Japan and Its Buddhist Traditions introduces students to Japanese society and culture through the lens of Buddhism with its more than 1,500 year history in Japan. Acting as participant-observers, students study those aspects of Japanese society and culture that have been deeply influenced by Buddhism, particularly Buddhist meditative and cultural expressions. There is an optional opportunity to learn the Japanese language at all levels as well as explore students' own academic interests through a directed research project. Students experience Japanese campus life through classes located at Buddhist-affiliated Ryukoku University while living as lay pilgrims in a nearby temple hostel. Director Brian Victoria, Ph.D. (pg. 2), assisted by professors, practitioners, and local on-site experts, leads students on this journey that provides a unique opportunity to encounter the people and culture of Japan in what has been, for many students, a life-changing experience.

The program offers five courses. Students may take four to receive a total of 16 semester credits:

Core Courses (students must select at least one):
1. Japanese Religions: Buddhism, Shinto, and the New Religions
2. Japanese Society and Cultural Traditions

Language Courses:
3. Japanese Language (Beginning, Intermediate, or Advanced)

Required Courses:
4. Practice and Theory of Buddhism in Japan
5. Field Research: Selected Topics

The application deadline is March 30, but applications are considered on a rolling basis, and late applicants will be considered on a space-available basis.

Highlights

* Earn 16 undergraduate semester credits while learning from scholars, professors, and practitioners in Kyoto, Japan.
* Experience temple and monastic life, while participating in meditation and chanting.
* Complete an Independent Study project related to some aspect of Japanese religions and cultures that follows your interests.
* Enjoy full access to Buddhist-affiliated Ryukoku University facilities, including computer lab, library and student cafeteria.
* Visit the great Buddhist-related sights in the ancient capitals of Kyoto and Nara including Zen gardens, paintings, and architecture.
* Undergo esoteric Buddhist practices in Japan's mountains, including waterfall purification rituals.
* Gain valuable research and critical thinking skills, along with achieving a greater understanding of Japanese society, Buddhist culture, and yourself.

Degree Level

Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Subject Areas

Cost in US$:

The fees for the Fall program are as follows: Tuition: 627 USD/credit hour; Total Tuition: 10,033 USD (16 semester credits); Transportation in Japan: 2,800 USD; Room and Board: 6,645 USD

Program Fees Include:

Round trip international airfare from specific departure cities, tuition, room, board and an international student ID card.

Experience Required

no

Typical Living Arrangements

• Group living

Participants Travel

in Groups

Typically Participants Work

Independently or in Groups of 12 - 20

Scholarships are Available

Information on scholarships is available on AEA's website or by request.

Application Process Involves

• Essay
• Letters of Reference
• Transcript
• Written Application

Typically The Application Process Time is

1-2 weeks

Antioch Education Abroad - Antioch University's Mission Statement

Since the 1950s, Antioch Education Abroad has been a pioneer in global education, offering courses that integrate resourceful academic content with cultural immersion. From Buddhist Studies in India to Arts and Culture in Mali to Brazilian Ecosystems, we develop and offer unique study abroad programs in Africa, Asia, South America, and Europe. Exploring their academic fields in diverse locations worldwide, students are taught, mentored, and led by on-site and AEA faculty who are experts in their respective fields.

Year Founded

AEA was established in 1956.