Prefectural University of Kumamoto (PUK), Japan
Win a generous UISFL Language & Study Abroad Scholarship to study Japanese for one year at PUK!
Prefectural University of Kumamoto (PUK) emphasizes on moto of Think Globally, Act Globally. PUK's curriculum is based on this particular thought process and is designed to enhance intercultural communication. PUK consists of three colleges: the College of Letters, Environmental and Symbiotic Sciences, and Administration Studies. PUK is a great study destination for students studying literature, writing, English and education because most of the English-offered classes are within the Faculty of Letters.
Kumamoto Prefecture is located in the center of Japan’s southern island, Kyushu. It has a population of more than 1.8 million people and is known for its beautiful landscapes and rich natural surroundings.
PUK Department of English Language & Literature
PUK International Student Guide
Testimonial
"This study abroad program has changed the course of my life. I had my life planned and then it changed my plans."
Emily Harris, PUK, Japan Study Abroad, Summer 2009
Read program testimonials here!
Academic Year
Fall Semester: October - February
Spring Semester: April - August
*Students wishing to study at PUK for a semester should consider the spring semester over the fall semester due to the different academic year schedule.
Courses Offered
Most of the courses at PUK are taught in Japanese but students can find a handful of classes offered in English within the Department of English Language & Literature. Moreover, PUK offers a Japan Studies Program for exchange students. This program has a broad-based curriculum of courses taught in English for students who wish to learn more about the many faces of Japan and of Kumamoto—its society, culture, business, and environment.
In some instances, teachers can accommodate students’ language needs in a Japanese-taught class on a case-by-case basis. For more information about classes offered at PUK, please consult with an advisor in the Office of International Studies.
View the course offerings in English for Spring 2021 and Fall 2021 here.
Accommodations & Costs
MSUB students studying abroad at PUK pay MSUB tuition. Apartments are available within walking distance of the university. A one bedroom apartment costs anywhere from $300-$500 per month and most of the utilities are a separate price. Students pay for accommodation directly to the landlord in country.
Visas
All students who wish to study in Japan for longer than 90 days must have a student visa. A visa application to Japanese Embassy in the United States is needed. A Certificate of Eligibility from the Ministry of Justice in Japan is also required. This process can take a lot of time and so it is important to start as early as possible. Once the Certificate of Eligibility is received, then students will need to apply for a student visa in-person at the Japanese Consulate in Seattle, WA.
Get more information about student visa requirements.
Health Insurance
To ensure comprehensive and quality coverage, all study abroad students are required to enroll in insurance that is provided through the designated Montana University System insurance provider. Please consult with the Study Abroad Coordinator for further information. This insurance is affordable with a typical semester averaging about $300.
