Course Descriptions

Asian Studies 2000: Rebuilding Japan: Social and Political Implications of the Great East Japan Earthquake, Tsunami and Fukushima Nuclear Crisis on Japanese Society

Credits:

3 credits

Faculty:

Kyle Cleveland

Day/Time:

MWF 13:40-15:40

Prerequisite:

English composition or equivalent

The Great East Japan Earthquake and the subsequent tsunami and nuclear disaster in Fukushima have had a profound effect on Japanese society. While the nuclear crisis raised public health concerns internationally, as this immediate crisis has abated, Japan continues to deal with the social and economic implications of this unlikely series of events. As was the case in the post-war era and in the post-bubble economy, the earthquake has come to define an emerging paradigm of social change, with a rising wave of civic engagement among volunteers and NGOs, and the emergence of political activism in the anti-nuclear movement.

In the last decade, the rise of "Cool Japan" has brought increased interest in Japanese popular culture, serving as an impetus to international exchange. Now, in the wake of recent events, Japan is redefining itself domestically, as need-based concerns are taking priority over the transient appeal of pop culture fashion. Will the soft-power "values diplomacy" of popular culture which has brought Japan acclaim now be supplanted by a reconceived national identity, defined through economic crisis and political change? This course will address how the 3.11 Earthquake has impacted Japan, looking at how the Japanese government, public institutions and civil society have responded to the complex issues raised by this crisis and explore how Japan is being considered from abroad in light of these historic events.

Asian Studies 3000: Japanese Popular Culture

Credits:

3 credits

Faculty:

Patrick Galbraith

Day/Time:

MWF 10:20-12:20

Prerequisite:

English composition or equivalent

This course addresses the global attraction of Japanese popular culture, focusing on the inter-related fields of art, music, fashion and design. Students will critically consider the impact of mass media (manga, anime, music, film, TV, cybercultures and innovative modes of communication, such as social media) on Japanese society, and examine how Japanese Pop Culture has grown as a cultural industry to represent "Cool Japan" abroad. These topics are historically situated in the contemporary Japanese political context, examining how social networks develop and are expressed through performative subcultures, and are appropriated in the marketplace of consumer society.

Students are encouraged to reflect on their everyday experiences in Tokyo and to gain analytical perspectives into their experiences throughout the course. The course will include field trips to matsuri and sites of production such as anime studios, seminars with manga producers, and explore the underground economy of Otaku fan culture in Akihabara.

Japanese 3010: Practical Japanese for Non-Majors

Credits:

3 credits

Faculty:

Ryoko Osada

Day/Time:

TR 11:10-14:10

This course will introduce students to "survival" Japanese by assisting them in developing some basic language skills. As a starter, we will introduce the two basic Japanese writing systems, Hiragana and Katakana. We will also focus on pronunciation and useful and practical expressions in a real-life setting. "Survival" Japanese will help students learn how to communicate with native speakers as well as provide some tips on understanding Japanese people and culture. Field trips are mandatory in this class.

Application Procedure

Continuing TUJ students or new TUJ students that are accepted for the full Summer term need not apply seperately, and would follow normal registration procedures to participate in the six-week intensive courses.

To apply, complete the online application form (select "Summer Only: Six-week Courses" for "Type of Admission") and submit all required items for a non-degree-seeking student.

• Admission Application Requirements For Non-degree-seeking Students
• Online Application Form

Tuition and Fees

Single six-week course (three credits):	184,100 yen
Two six-week courses (six credits):	368,300 yen
Three six-week courses (nine credits):	552,500 yen
Student Activity fee:	1,500 yen
Facilities fee:	26,250 yen
Dorm housing or home stay (optional):	210,000 yen
Total for students enrolled in three courses (nine credits) and housing: 790,250 yen