The Ryukoku Japan Studies Program (Magokoro Program), abbreviated it as JSP, is designed for inbound exchange students to study the Japanese language as well as Japanese society and culture.

Ryukoku University is located, has long flourished as a cultural center of Japan throughout history. In this location where tradition and modernity coexist, students can explore Japan from a variety of perspectives. Ryukoku University is the oldest university in Japan and is internationally recognized for its excellence in Buddhist studies. One of the key themes of JSP is the concept of Magokoro, a value rooted in Buddhist philosophy. Magokoro refers to a sincere heart that which focuses on self, reflection, care for others and, altruism activities with the happiness of others in mind.

Another major feature of JSP includes experiential learning, such as field trips to historical and cultural sites in Kyoto, in addition to international collaborative learning through Project-Based Learning (PBL), throughout students work with peers from Ryukoku University to address shared challenges.

Program Overview

1. Gain an understanding of the traditional Japanese spirit which has been nurtured for over a thousand years in the ancient capital as well as spiritual bonds rooted in Buddhism.
2. Learn about the position and characteristics of Buddhism in comparison with other world religions.
3. Deepen connections with Ryukoku University students and local residents, and acquire perspectives and methods for intercultural understanding.
4. Understand the concept of Magokoro and, through its embodiment, contribute to social development and international cooperation.

Curriculum

• ●The curriculum consists of required courses (credits must be earned), compulsory registration courses (all students are required to register, but earning credits is not mandatory), and elective courses.
• ●Elective courses are divided into three groups.

Course Cluster A	Japanese Language Studies	A cluster of courses focused on Japanese language learning. Offers diverse opportunities to study Japanese, ranging from JLPT preparation to linguistic approaches.
Course Cluster B	International Collaborative PBL	A course cluster where international students and Ryukoku University’s domestic students learn together through small-group, Project-Based Learning (PBL) formats.
Course Cluster C	Japanese Society, Culture, and Industry	This course cluster focuses on the Japanese society, culture, economy, and business. It offers a wide range of courses, from casual classes aimed at experience and interaction to more specialized academic subjects.

• ●Courses are offered in both Japanese and English, allowing students to select classes according to their individual needs and language proficiency.
• ●Japanese language subjects are organized into classes based on proficiency levels.

Curriculum Chart (as of May 2025)

Curriculum Chart (as of May 2025)

Program Completion Requirements

To complete the program, students must earn at least 15 credits if enrolled for one semester, or at least 30 credits if enrolled for two semesters. A "JSP Certificate of Completion" will be issued to those who are enrolled for at least one semester and have earned 15 credits (for one semester) or 30 credits (for two semesters) from JSP subjects offered by the university.

Curriculum Model
（following assumes a six-month period of study）

• ◆Model①◆
  For students with no prior knowledge of Japanese who wish to take courses offered in English

Required classes (6credits)	Japanese Religions【2】 Inclusive CommunicationA【2】 Seminar A【2】
Compulsory registration classes (5credits)	Introductory Japanese A【5】
Elective classes (8credits)	※Course Cluster Ａ 　Kanji【1】 　Pronunciation Training A【1】 ※Course Cluster C 　Japanese Media ＆ Arts A【2】 　Japanese Society A【2】 　Japanese Technology【2】

• ◆Model②◆
  For students aiming to work in Japan, focusing on strengthening Japanese language skills and understanding Japanese business practices

Required classes (6credits)	日本の宗教 【2】 みんなのコミュニケーションAⅠ【2】 ゼミナール A【2】
Compulsory registration classes (5credits)	日本語A【5】
Elective classes (9credits)	※Course Cluster A 　JLPTN1 A【1】 　JLPTN2 A【1】 　関西方言A【1】 ※Course Cluster B 　みんなで学ぶ国際ビジネス事情【2】 ※Course Cluster C 　日本の現代社会A【2】 　国際経済と日本企業A【2】

• ◆Model③◆
  For students who wish to focus on collaborative learning with Ryukoku University students and cultural experiences

Required classes (6credits)	日本の宗教 【2】 みんなのコミュニケーションAⅠ【2】 ゼミナール A【2】
Compulsory registration classes (5credits)	日本語A【5】
Elective classes (8credits)	※Course Cluster B 　みんなのコミュニケーションBⅠ【2】 　みんなで学ぶ国際ビジネス事情【2】 ※Course Cluster C 　日本の伝統文化【2】 　日本の食文化Ａ【2】

Japanese Language Classes

Japanese language classes are conducted with reference to the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages). Classes are divided into five levels based on CEFR proficiency levels. Placement in each class is mainly determined by a placement test. For the JSP-A class, instruction is given in English so students with no prior Japanese language experience can participate.

Class Level	CEFR	Languages
JSP-A	Below A1	English
JSP-B	A2.1	Japanese
JSP-C	A2.2	Japanese
JSP-D	B1.1	Japanese
JSP-E	Over B1.2	Japanese

Enrollment in Undergraduate Major and Other Courses

Students in JSP-D and JSP-E may enroll in regular subjects (major-based and liberal arts-based) In Ryukoku University undergraduate facluty and Graduate school.

The Value of Studying in Kyoto
― 10 Reasons to Choose Kyoto ―

Kyoto, home to Ryukoku University, offers an exceptional learning environment for international students thanks to its cultural charm, rich history, and diverse initiatives.
The “Study Kyoto Network” provides information on international student support, including study opportunities and various support systems available in Kyoto. Please refer to the following links for more details:

Study Kyoto Network