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Aoyama Gakuin University
| Area: | International Business Exchange |
| Location: | Tokyo |
| Country: | Japan |
| Term: | Spring |
| Website: | AGU School of Global Studies and Collaboration |
UofSC's exchange program at Aoyama Gakuin University is designed to expose USC students to Japanese life and culture. The program is located in Tokyo, part of Japan's capital city. Aoyama Gakuin University is a nationally renowned leader in Japanese higher education. Established in 1949 as the flagship institution of the larger Aoyama Gakuin school system, the university boasts generations of graduates that have become leaders in fields ranging from arts and athletics to business and national politics. Students will attend the School of Global Studies and Collaboration located at the Sagamihara Campus.
At AGU students will use theory-based social science and project-based field work to lead their experience. The ability to use these skills and critically think are key to problem solving across any field. Students are also able to take courses in Japanese language and culture.
Category: 1, no foreign language proficiency requirement, all courses taught in English
Cost: UofSC resident tuition rates + in-country costs
Requirements: junior standing; International Business major
Students on exchange pay in-state tuition directly to USC and do not pay tuition to AGU. All housing, food, and personal expenses are paid by the student in Tokyo. AGU recommends that students budget ¥60,000 for books and supplies, ¥70,000 for personal expenses, ¥35,000 for transportation, and ¥100,000 for additional expenses. To get an idea of life on site, you will find on the numbeo website indications on the cost of living in Tokyo compared to other countries in the world.
Students typically enroll in six classes, each of which are worth two credits. To see courses UofSC students have taken at this university, please reference the Registrar's Course Equivalency Table.
In addition to trips to the countryside coordinated by the International Center, GSC provides exchange students with unique field trips to popular destinations such as Asakusa and Hakone, where students havethe opportunity to experience both traditional and contemporary Japanese culture. These events give students the chance to become familiar with Japan’s vibrant cultural heritage while building lasting connection with peers. There is also a Buddy Program available to exchange students.
Students are required to subscribe to the National Health Insurance provided by AGU at the cost of roughly ¥15,000 a semester. Students enroll in the plan once they arrive in Tokyo.
In addition to National Health Insurance from AGU, per university policy, all UofSC students will be charged emergency medical, evacuation and repatriation insurance for their time abroad. Contact the Education Abroad Office for more details.
AGU's International Center strongly recommends that exchange students choose “Diakonia Hashimoto”or “Dormy Sagamiono” as your housing option, in terms of safety and security (a dorm manager resides in the building), and the total fees are relatively reasonable. Additional housing options are offered by AGU on their International Center Housing Exchange webpage.
At AGU, the Spring semester starts at the end of March and runs through early August. The Fall Semester begins in September and runs through early February. IB students will attend AGU during the Spring semester.
AGU provides students with an on-site orientation approximately one week before classes begin for the semester. Students will receive information that outlines important details and resources for living and studying in Japan.
For programs longer than 90 days, students will need to apply for a Student Visa. All USC students are typically eligible to go through the Atlanta, GA consulate by using their university residence/Carolina Card. If your permanent address in NOT in the jurisdiction for Atlanta, GA, you may also go through the Consulate or Embassy in accordance with your permanent residence. Click here to find your jurisdiction. Students can begin this process once they receive their Certificate of Enrollment from AGU.