Academics
In 2018, the College of International Relations will
Advance to the Next Level
On the 30th anniversary year of its establishment, the College of International Relations will take a new step forward. Our efforts include rebuilding its faculty structures, as well as renewing the curriculum of each major and its learning systems. We will also introduce a new milestone program jointly organized with American University.
Joint Degree Program with American University
American University - Ritsumeikan University Joint Degree Program
Studying for 2 Years in Japan and 2 Years in the U.S., Totaling 4 Years in One Program
The College will newly establish a joint degree program with American University. This will be the first joint degree program of the College, and within the liberal arts college and private universities in Japan.
Systematic Program of Study Designed by Japanese and American Universities
The curriculum of the program has been designed jointly by Ritsumeikan University and American University. Students will study in a coherent academic curriculum in English for 4 years at universities in Japan and the U.S.
Studying in Washington D.C. —the Center of International Politics— and Kyoto —the Center of Japanese Culture—
The program will deliver active learning through an environment where students can have first-hand experiences at the centers of international politics and Japanese culture.
The U.S. and Asia and Going Beyond Western Centric International Relations
Students will study Global IR, which is the study of world governance through the perspectives of diverse countries and regions including Asian nations, an approach which goes beyond the western centric form of IR.
Upgrading and Expanding the English-Based Global Studies Major
Global Studies Major
Studying with International Students in a Highly Diverse Environment
Students will study in a diverse environment with international students from over 30 nations, including the U.S., U.K., Australia, India, Indonesia, China, and Korea.
Learning in English
The College supports students through courses such as “Academic Skills” and support programs such as the “Writing Tutorial Center”.
Studying in the Same Way as Universities in English Speaking Countries
In the College, students will study, think, express themselves and write, all in English. By studying in the same way as students at universities in English speaking countries, their English abilities will be advanced to the level of writing a specialized graduation thesis at the time of graduation.
Graduation Thesis
All students will be required to write a graduation thesis, which will allow them to gain specialized knowledge within International Relations at the time of graduation.
Study Abroad Program
Many IR College students participate in one year exchange programs. Students may also participate in other study abroad or language learning programs depending on their interests, and at their own pace.
New Changes to the International Relations Major, Keeping with a Tradition as the one of the leading IR school in Japan
International Relations Major
International Administration Program
The International Administration Program will be newly introduced to support students aiming for careers in diplomacy, international cooperative organizations, and international organizations.
Late Specialization
After studying the basics of International Relations for the first year, students will decide their specialization from the 4 fields of Culture and Society, Development and Sustainability, Governance and Peace, and International Administration.
English for International
Studies
Students will learn advanced English language skills in the English for International Studies” program, which will enable them to take courses conducted in English.
Graduation Thesis
All students will be required to write a graduation thesis, which will allow them to gain specialized knowledge within International Relations at the time of graduation.
Global Active Learning
The hands-on Global Simulation Gaming course is conducted in both English and Japanese. While learning in Japan, students will be able to take specialized courses in English.
Study Abroad Program
Many IR College students participate in one year exchange programs. Students may also participate in other study abroad or language learning programs depending on their interests, and at their own pace.
Academic Support
Various support programs to make the most of learning opportunities
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First Year Retreat
FYR is an orientation program for the first year students to plan for their four years of study. With faculty members and graduates, students think about selecting their Advanced Seminar, which is very important when they plan for their four years of study and future career, and other possibilities such as the study abroad to live a productive college life.
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Writing Tutorial Program
Continuous practice and experience are necessary to improve the academic writing skills. The College of IR provides the “Academic Writing Tutorial” as one of such opportunities. Tutors are senior year students in the College of IR and graduate students who have much experience in writing papers. Please take advantage of the program to become better at academic writing!.
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Beyond Borders Plaza
BBP is a global commons for cultural exchange and language study. It offers cultural exchange events, a communication room for foreign languages, a support desk, learning spaces for foreign languages, and places to interact with other students. BBP is open to all students regardless of their major, year, nationality, native language, etc.
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Student Success Program
SSP is a support program to help students become independent and maximize their growth through both curricular and extracurricular activities. SSP provides a variety of seminars, peer support, and individual programs developed by SSP coordinators. Please check the website for details. SSP is currently in Japanese only (SSP in English will be coming soon).