Akita International University

Key information

Partner Institution: Akita International University

Location: Akita, Japan

Dates: 17 June - 29 July 2025 

Costs: 250,000 JPY (approx. A$2,500) (more information can be found below)

Funding:

• A$3,206 Cheung Kong Travel Grants available for eligible students
• A$9,893 OS-HELP Loans available for eligible students

Application deadline: 5 February 2025

Overview

Escape Melbourne's winter chill and immerse yourself in the warmth of a Japanese summer with a six-week study program at Akita International University (AIU), one of our esteemed partner universities. Earn academic credit towards your Swinburne degree while participating in an engaging Japanese language and culture course. This program offers a unique blend of academic learning, cultural exploration, and exciting activities and trips that go far beyond a typical tourist experience.

Outside the classroom, you'll have the opportunity to deepen your cultural immersion by joining AIU's vibrant extracurricular scene. Participate in club or circle activities, the Foreign Language Conversation Partner Program, and Japanese Conversation Day (Themed House activities). You'll also connect with AIU degree-seeking students and international exchange peers, making lifelong friends along the way.

About Akita

Located along the Sea of Japan in the northern Tohoku Region, Akita Prefecture is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, from majestic mountains to serene coastlines. The prefectural capital, Akita City, is a hub of culture and tradition. Key attractions include relaxing hot springs, the charming town of Kakunodate, home to one of Japan's most well-preserved samurai districts, and scenic landscapes perfect for exploration.

Courses offered

Japanese Language and Culture Workshop Program

This course offers culture workshops, field trips to local sites, and opportunities to appreciate traditional Japanese culture. Students in previous Summer Programs participated in the following culture workshops and field trips:

• Shodo (Calligraphy)
• Kimono Wearing
• Sado (Tea Ceremony)
• Kendo (Japanese Fencing)
• Zazen (Zen meditation)
• Sight-seeing to Oga Peninsula and Kakunodate
   

View the program calendar

Eligibility criteria

To apply for this program, students must:

• be enrolled into an Undergraduate degree
• meet the overseas exchange program eligibility requirements
• meet any pre-requisites listed by the host institution and for the courses you choose
   

Academic credit

You'll earn 6 AIU credits for completion of this course. You are able to take this program as credit for one of your elective units. 

Credit equivalence

6 AIU credits = 12.5 CP (1 unit) at Swinburne

Costs

Program cost: 250,000 JPY (approx. A$2,500)

This program cost is paid to the host institution and includes the following:

• Accommodation (bedding, cleaning)
• 3 meals per day
• Field trips

Visit their website for further information. The host university will be able to provide further information upon application.

Note: Tuition fees to the host university are waived for students completing a short-term exchange program at one of our partner universities. You will continue to pay your regular tuition fees to Swinburne while you are on the program.

There may be other program costs incurred outside of tuition fees, including living expenses, airfares, and visas (if applicable).