Japan: Musashi University

TokyoOverview

With less than 5,000 students, Musashi University combines the excitement of studying in Tokyo with the warmth of a close-knit campus community. The exchange program is designed to foster meaningful connections between international and Japanese students, creating opportunities for genuine cultural exchange, friendship, and personal growth.

Students can choose courses that match their academic interests regardless of their Japanese language background. Through daily interactions both inside and outside the classroom, participants gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and develop relationships that enrich their study abroad experience.

Program Details

Students without Japanese fluency can take English-taught courses through Musashi University’s East Asian Studies (EAS) program. This program brings international and Japanese students together to explore East Asian cultures and perspectives, fostering cross-cultural understanding, intellectual exchange, and global citizenship.

Musashi University encourages students to become active members of its close-knit campus community through a variety of experiences beyond the classroom. From monthly Tokyo "Walkabouts" to student-led clubs and organizations, exchange students have unique opportunities to form genuine friendships with Japanese students and engage with local culture firsthand.

For more information about the exchange program, click here: https://www.musashi.ac.jp/en/education/global/to_musashi/incoming_exchange.html

Courses Offered

All EAS course classes are taught in English. Each course is worth 2 or 4 units. This course is taught by experts active in a wide range of fields, including:

  • Asian Pacific Studies
  • Business and Economics
  • Communication, Media Studies
  • Global Studies, Foreign Policy
  • History
  • Political Science
  • Sociology, Religion

Courses may also work for GE requirements or free electives.

For a full list of English-taught courses with course descriptions in the EAS, click here. EAS course participants can also take Japanese language classes according to their level (true beginner to advanced). Level placement is based primarily on the results of a placement test administration during on-site orientation.

Available Terms Abroad

  • Fall Semester: late August to end of December
    • Deadline to Apply: February 15
  • Spring Semester: early April to early August
    • Deadline to Apply: August 15
  • Academic Year: mid September to end of July (break during February and March)
    • Deadline to Apply: January 15

Eligibility

  • Current CSUCI student in good academic standing at time of application.
  • Sophomore, junior, or senior standing while abroad.
  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher (students with below a 2.75 GPA should contact the Study Abroad Advisor at courtney.gross@csuci.edu for guidance).
  • No Japanese language skills required, although students are encouraged to take a Japanese language course abroad.

To Apply

Students must complete a CSUCI Exchange Application first. If selected as a nominee, students will then be directed to complete Musashi’s host university exchange application.

Housing

Musashi University offers several housing options for exchange students. Students may apply to live in NEM HOUSE, a modern residence adjacent to campus that brings together Japanese and international students in a shared living community, though placement is competitive.

Additional accommodations include Rikko Kaikan, a dormitory within walking distance of campus with private rooms and shared facilities, and DK House, a larger residential community that houses both students and working adults and is located about 25 minutes from campus.

Students can choose to follow Musashi’s recommendations or find accommodation on their own.

Location

Musashi University is located in Nerima Ward, a quiet residential area in central Tokyo that offers a more authentic glimpse of daily life in Japan. Despite its peaceful setting, the campus is just 20 minutes from major Tokyo hubs such as Ikebukuro and Shinjuku, providing easy access to the city's cultural, entertainment, and business districts.

The neighborhood surrounding campus features a charming local shopping street with restaurants, cafés, and shops that serve the community, allowing students to experience Tokyo beyond the typical tourist destinations.

Budget

Click here to see the Budget Sheet for Musashi for Academic Year 2026-27, Fall 2026, and Spring 2027.

Financial aid may be applied to study abroad. Follow up with the Financial Aid office at CSUCI for specifics regarding your financial aid package. 

Make an Appointment with an Advisor

For more information about this program or others, book a one-on-one appointment with a CSUCI Study Abroad Advisor to discuss this program.

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