Study Abroad

Nishinomiya in 2015 oyler classroom

Study in the classroom before stepping out to "real Japan." Pitt-in-Japan at Nishinomiya, on Konan University CUBE campus, Japan. Summer, 2015.

Why not study abroad in Asia?

We encourage you to seek opportunities to participate in a study abroad program for at least one semester. Participating in study abroad is one of the best ways to learn the language and culture you are studying. It can be transformative to your personal growth. Language gain during study abroad could be significant and may allow you to skip ahead in the language program or land a job after graduation that would not be possible without the language proficiency. Some non-language requirements can also be fulfilled during study abroad. Contact your advisor and/or Study Abroad Office.

What's best for me?

The great variety of study abroad experiences allow each student to find a program to fit his or her study program. The best person to talk to about Study Abroad in Asia is our Major Asvisor, who will be able to help you identify the best fit for you.  General information about the three types of programs (Panther Programs, Exchanges, and Pitt-Recognized) can be found on the Study Abroad Office website to get you started!

Year-in Japan

The Year-in-Japan at Konan University is a EALL's flagship semester- or year-long program in Kobe, Japan. You will undertake intensive language study and take 6 hours of Japan studies courses. Many students take advantage of the homestay program. JASSO scholarships are also available for qualified students. For more information, contact Stephen Luft.

Pitt-in-Nishinomiya

Pitt-in-Japan (in Nishinomiya), a five week language and culture program at a Konan University campus near Osaka in June. In addition to a introductory course in language and culture of Japan, students will also take another Japan studies course. Six credits. For more information, contact Stephen Luft or Leslie Smedley.

Two Weeks in Kansai, perfect for SEALS Japan students

First offered in 2018, this program offers students the opportunity to try out what they have learned in language study, immerse themselves in the culture, and be inspired to study Japanese at a higher level at Pitt. The study tour is open to anyone who has not studied three years of Japanese, and, of course, SEALS Japan students are strongly encouraged to apply. Two credits.

As part of the instruction (30 hours total), EALL will hold a pre-departure orientation and post-return debriefing. The program is based in Kobe at Konan University and students will take trips to many parts of Kansai as well as receive instruction. You will have an opportunity to interact with Konan students. If your first thoughts of Japan are Pokémon and samurai, prepare to be blown away. A visit to the Kansai region of Japan introduces you to the special mix that thousands of years of Japanese history and culture can produce. Once known as the cradle of Japanese civilization, Kobe, Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka flourish today as castles and temples age alongside skyscrapers and apartment complexes. Travel to Kansai Japan and be surprised by what you can discover from ancient and modern architecture, from visits to art museums, castles, ancient temples, and a bunraku theater. Learn more about popular culture and street food. Reflect on Japan’s remarkable history of yesterday and its place in the globalized consumer culture of today.

A limited number of financial aid is available in order to assist students who might not otherwise be able to participate because of the cost. For financial aid information, go to the scholarship page on this website. Contact Stephen Luft for more information about this program.

Photo Gallery of 2019 trip

Junior year abroad?

What is the best timing for study abroad? Many make it whole year during the junior year. You will have to plan your Pitt career around it so that you are not slowed down by going to, say, China, for a year. Plan ahead.

Shorter stays, a semester, several weeks over the summer, for example, are also beneficial. Whatever the length, you owe it yourself to get more information about study abroad. Shouldn't you do this while you're at Pitt studying an Asian language?