Iwate University
Before you meet with an education abroad advisor be sure to complete the "Advising Form" linked at the top of this page.
Please note that you will not be able to apply for semester or yearlong education abroad program until you've met with an education abroad advisor. To make an appointment, please contact internationalprograms@noctrl.edu or call the Center for Global Education at 630-637-5132.
Program Overview
Spring Semester (April-August)/Full Year
Eligible students must be junior or senior standing with at least two years of college-level Japanese with a preferred GPA of 3.0.
An institution of about 6,000 students, Iwate University was founded in 1949 and consists of four faculties: Humanities and Social Sciences, Education, Science and Engineering, and Agriculture. Situated in Morioka, the capital city of Iwate, Iwate University is located 2.5 hours by bullet train from Tokyo in an area known for its beautiful landscapes and recreational opportunities. The literal translation of Morioka is the “town of forests and hills.”
North Central students coming to Iwate University are affiliated with the Faculty of Education. As a result, students can enjoy a tailor-made program, which takes full advantage of the university’s resources, such as an affiliated kindergarten, elementary school, junior high school and special needs school.
In addition to the regular courses that the Faculty of Education offers, international students can take classes about aspects of Japanese society, which are offered in English, and Japanese language classes. Students are also given opportunities to volunteer in tsunami-affected areas along the coast of Iwate.
A school internship is a required component of the program.
Academics
Students are required to complete GLS 277 in the spring term prior to studying abroad.
Students usually earn between 9-12 credits per term, depending on course load and length of stay. All grades earned abroad affect students North Central College GPA when transferred back. Students cannot take courses pass/fail.
Note: Students must have courses pre-approved by North Central College prior to taking them abroad. If students change their course schedules while abroad, they must get this change approved. Some departments only permit students to take a certain number of courses that count toward their major abroad; by getting all courses pre-approved, this ensures that these courses will count towards their degrees.
Housing and Meals
Students live in University self-catered residence halls.
Meals: Not included in program fees. Students prepare their own meals in a shared kitchen with their roommates.
Estimated Costs
Students pay North Central College tuition and room and board to the host institution. A $30 non-refundable application fee is due at the time of application submission. Students are personally responsible for paying airfare, health insurance, departure tax, books, extra personal travel and spending money, as these items are not included in room and board fees. North Central College financial aid does apply.