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Ritsumeikan University - Biwako Kusatsu Campus

立命館大学

Ritsumeikan University - Biwako Kusatsu Campus

Kusatsu
City
1900
Foundation
11000
Number of students
2016€ - 6315€
Semester Tuition Fees
800€
Ø monthly cost of living
Yes
Scholarships available
November 12, March 10
Application Deadline
9/1
Student - staff ratio
50
Nations represented

Offered Programs

RocApply has partnered with Ritsumeikan University to encourage students to apply for their favorite programs in English or Japanese and become part of Japan's exciting student community.

Ritsumeikan University provides excellent education and has great results with a stream of certifications and years of experience to show for it.

Here at RocApply, every application is responsive and thoughtful to ensure that we remain the latest platform for all your college/university admission needs.

Applicants must meet all three requirements:

1. Citizenship (* Registration only in April),

 2. Qualification for university admission and

3. Knowledge of English.

1. Citizenship

Applicants must meet one of the following requirements:

  • Have foreign citizenship.
  • Have only Japanese citizenship and by the time of enrollment must have graduated or plan to graduate from a high school abroad or an international/foreign school in Japan.

2. Qualification for University Admission

At the time of admission to Ritsumeikan University, one of the following criteria must be met.

Applicants must meet any of the following requirements and must complete the requirements before the admission date. Otherwise, your offer to join will be canceled.

* Registration date: April 1 _ April semester, September 26 – September semester

A. You have completed a 12-year standard curriculum or equivalent curriculum established by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT).

B. Completed a 12-year course at an international school accredited by an international accreditation body (WASC, CIS, or ACSI).

C. Completed a 12-year course of study at a school for Japanese overseas students, which was certified as an overseas high school by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology.

D. Possess an International Baccalaureate, Abitur, Baccalaureate diploma, or GCE A-level qualification.

E. Completed the 11-year standard curriculum in the country designated by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology.

(Example: Belarus, Myanmar, Peru, Russia, Sudan, Uzbekistan)

F. Received school education in the country for less than 12 years and completed a preparatory course before entering Japan, accredited by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology.

G. Have passed an academic aptitude test equivalent to taking a standard 12-year study abroad course and turned 18.

Example: General Education Development (GED)

H. Have passed the High School Equivalent Exam (High School Final Exam) / University Entrance Exam (Entrance Qualification Exam) administered by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology and have reached the age of 18.

I. Through individual selection, Ritsumeikan University must ascertain that an applicant's academic ability is equal to or better than those who graduated from high school over 18 years of age.

* Applicants who graduate from Korean High School are deemed to meet this requirement.

3. Knowledge of English

To demonstrate sufficient English proficiency, you must have passed one of the following tests and achieved the following minimum scores by the time you apply.

TOEFL iBT®Test: 76

IELTS Academic Module: 6.0

TOEIC®L&R Test: 740

Duolingo English Test (160-point scale): 100

*The above English language test result is not required for applicants who were trained and instructed in English only during the last 6 years of formal education before the registration date.

Select your Degree

Application Requirements for Bachelors:

  • A-Level Certificate
  • Language Documents (Where Applicable)

Select your field of study for Bachelors

Engineering.Technology

Select your Bachelor program


Ritsumeikan University - Biwako Kusatsu Campus in Rankings

  • #1 Private University in Japan (THE Impact Rankings)
  • Top 200 universities in the world (THE Global Impact Rankings)
  • #4 Private University in Japan (QS Asia University Rankings)
  • 4-Star Ranking (QS-STARS Ranking System, 2019)
  • Top Japanese University for SDG1 and SDG16

Cost of living at Ritsumeikan University - Biwako Kusatsu Campus

300 - 460 Euro / month
Accomodation
795 Euro / month
Cost of living
190 Euro / month
Food
45 Euro / month
Transportation

About Ritsumeikan University - Biwako Kusatsu Campus

Ritsumeikan University was established in Kyoto in 1900 and is one of the largest private universities in Japan with a history of more than 120 years.

Its main location is Kyoto, where Kinugasa and Suzaku campuses are located. Shigeru is the location of the Lake Biwa-Kusatsu campus, and Osaka is its Osaka Ibaraki campus. The university enrolls approximately 36,000 students in various study programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels.

Today, it has become the third-largest university in Japan. Ritsumeikan University’s vision is to "create a future that transcends national boundaries." Its goal is to build an international campus, so the acceptance rate for international students is high. Currently, students from 68 countries/regions and about 2,000 foreign students are studying here.

Ritsumeikan University currently offers a wide range of advanced research courses on the Onigasa campus in Kyoto, the Biwako Kusatsu Campus (BKC) in Shiga Prefecture, and the Osaka Ibaraki Campus (OIC) in Osaka.

2000 marks the 130th anniversary of the establishment of Ritsumeikan Private School and the 100th anniversary of the establishment of Ritsumeikan University

. In April 2000, to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Ritsumeikan, we opened the Asia-Pacific Ritsumeikan University (APU) international education institution in Oita Prefecture.

As Ritsumeikan continues to maintain its spirit in the 21st century, the addition of APU provides the new impetus. In the first century, the Ritsumeikan Foundation developed into a general educational institution with two universities, four middle schools, four junior high schools, and one elementary school.

Since opening the Department of International Relations in 1988, they have globalized their school. In 2014, the university was selected as a superglobal university by the Ministry of Education of Japan.

Today, under the auspices of Ritsumeikan University, there are 16 colleges, 21 graduate schools, and 5 international institutions.

The university offers nationally and globally recognized courses in the fields of art, engineering, humanities and management, law, economics, and business.

Ritsumeikan University is trained by some top scholars and has more than 1,300 professors and faculty members. The university provides English courses as well as Japanese and Chinese courses for the general public.

SHIGA

Next to Kyoto is Shiga prefecture with Lake Biwa, the largest lake in Japan. Shiga Prefecture is blessed with a rich water source and a natural environment yet also a prefecture that is pouring its energy and resources into supporting a leading-edge technology industry.

As such, it is home to a wealth of advanced tech production factories – indicative of Japan’s place as a world leader in manufacturing.

KUSATSU CAMPUS

The Biwako-Kusatsu campus is located on spacious grounds in Kusatsu City. There are 6 undergraduate and 6 graduate courses offered here, that cross between social science and advanced engineering.

They collaborate with industry and government to actively promote the creation of new industries. There are over 600 international students at the Biwako-Kusatsu campus and this number is growing.

Studies here are used in a global setting and students are educated to become professionals ready to become productive problem solvers, with the experience and knowledge to develop practical and creative solutions to new problems. All classes are held in English and they aim for expertise, as well as a global mindset and teamwork skills.

STUDENT LIFE AT RITSUMEIKAN UNIVERSITY

Academia

a) Project-based training

Starting from the first year, students will be part of many research and development projects and learn modern technology without changing the curriculum every year. By learning by doing, students will learn new technological innovation knowledge and develop systems suitable for the real world and global environment. Students learn to work with people from different backgrounds, but have a common goal.

b) Active learning

In contrast to traditional forms of learning, courses are usually held in small amounts under a system called "active learning", which is included in teaching. Through group discussions, students guide their learning by discussing issues that they think oppose each other. This encourages self-research and independent problem-solving skills. RU students come from different backgrounds, so they will bring different experiences and reactions. Discussing different cultures and situations with each other has a very useful and unique learning effect.

Student Support

Ritsumeikan University offers many opportunities to meet the diverse needs of students. These include a library and peer study room called PIARA, as well as a gym and other student facilities that can relieve the stress of students’ daily lives. Other services include seminar rooms, bookstores, bicycle parking, and an international exchange room called Beyond Borders Plaza.

At the International Center, students can obtain visas, accommodation, health, and daily life support. After freshmen enter Ritsumeikan University, the International Center will conduct a comprehensive entrance training at the beginning of the semester, including lectures explaining the procedures for opening residence, health insurance, and bank accounts.

After helping students complete important official documents, these documents will be submitted to the local government on behalf of the student, or the student will be referred to the local government to fill in the form correctly.

The International Center also provides an index of the problems faced in daily life and a campus map for freshmen, so that students can adapt to life in Japan as soon as possible. The International Center's English and Chinese are native languages, which can meet the needs of students.

Ritsumeikan students can also use the "Student Support Room". Students can enter the building in this room for free and can consult an expert when frustrated or need professional advice or help. The university’s professional consultants speak fluent English and Japanese.

The Career Center not only provides career support for international students majoring in Japanese but also provides career support for international students who want to study English in Japan and work in Japan. They also support overseas employment activities through overseas offices and alumni associations.

Medical Facilities

The on-campus medical service center combines general health support services with clinics specializing in internal medicine to improve the health of students. To ensure good health, all students should participate in an annual health check to assess their overall health and take other tests as needed. Students with persistent health problems are supervised and receive follow-up medical advice until they graduate.


Why Study at Ritsumeikan University - Biwako Kusatsu Campus

Education System

At Ritsumeikan University, the Ritsumeikan learning model enables students to learn and grow throughout their lives, going beyond regular courses and extracurricular activities. The Ritsumeikan learning model is an education system that aims to develop "experience" and the ability to actively learn beyond national boundaries. Its keyword is "obtain information, learn across national boundaries, and learn together".

Globalization

Ritsumeikan University attaches great importance to international education and has been selected as one of the top 30 universities in the world and the world’s top university program. This is a highly competitive initiative of the government and is committed to further developing its global image by providing a world-class education to students around the world. Ritsumeikan University currently has more than 2,400 students from 71 countries/regions. Since the opening of the first English learning course in 2011, the university has been used by students from all over the world, and it is becoming more and more diverse every year.

Faculty Staff

In addition to students, the faculty is also very diverse: in 2016, the university ranked first in the number of foreign teachers. More than 15% of Ritsumeikan University’s faculty come from other parts of the world.

Career Opportunities

From Asia to the world, from the world to Asia, Ritsumeikan is a gateway connecting people and knowledge. Ritsumeikan University provides career planning opportunities and employment plans to further globalize and support students to achieve their goals.

Global Cooperation

The university has established partnerships with educational institutions around the world. Among more than 440 cooperative universities and colleges in 65 countries and regions, the university has conducted exchange programs with 130 universities. During the study period at Ritsumeikan, students have the opportunity to study outside Japan for one semester to one year. International students who come to Japan study abroad, but there are other opportunities to study abroad if needed.

Research

Ritsumeikan University is actively expanding research cooperation with private companies and enterprises. In 2015, they ranked first in the number of commissioned research conducted by the private sector. This means that many companies give high marks to university research. The university also has more than 20 cutting-edge research centers, which are actively committed to any pioneering research and development in Japan.


Accommodation Ritsumeikan University - Biwako Kusatsu Campus

On Campus Accomodation at Ritsumeikan University - Biwako Kusatsu Campus

Near each campus of Ritsumeikan University, there are several international student dormitories called "international residences." Japanese students (resident bilingual tutors) also live in the dormitory and support international students to transition to life in Japan.

Kinugasa (Kyoto): Kinugasa campus has 3 international student dormitories for freshmen (only for students who have never lived in Japan).

Biwako- Kusatsu Campus (Shiga Prefecture): The Lake Biwa Kusatsu Campus has international student dormitories near the campus.

Osaka Ibaraki Campus (Osaka): The Osaka Ibaraki Campus has student dormitories for international and Japanese students.

In addition to international student housing, you can also find information on English campus apartments at NASIC student cooperatives and real estate companies.

Choosing an apartment is a very important step in the initial stage of international students. Usually, a co-signer is required to sign an apartment lease contract in Japan.

Biwako-Kusatsu Campus Dormitory

There is an international student dormitory situated right next to the Biwako-Kusatsu Campus. Due to its quiet location, this modern facility offers students both a quiet environment and the convenience of being close to all of the university's facilities. BKC International House aims to support the transition to Japanese life while providing an environment where international students can adapt to the local language and culture and interact with fellow students from around the world. The hostel has a bilingual Resident Mentor (RM) and a self-locking entrance. These dorms cost 39,000 JP¥ per month and have all utilities (electricity, water, heating, etc.) included. Each of the rooms has a desk & a chair, bookshelf, wardrobe, a bed, a refrigerator, washstand, air conditioning, wireless internet connection, and other convenient room features. Across all three student housing facilities in Biwako-Kusatsu, the university has provided lounge areas, common areas, recreational and entertainment rooms, laundry rooms, living and kitchen areas, indoor gaming facilities, outdoor terrace and relaxation areas, and lots more.

Off Campus Accomodation at Ritsumeikan University - Biwako Kusatsu Campus

On the other hand, off-campus accommodation (within range of the university) with similar features is available, with prices depending on the specific need of the student. Costs also include water and electricity bills. There is also a chance to rent accommodation from a private landlord or estate agent.


Sports at Ritsumeikan University - Biwako Kusatsu Campus

Ritsumeikan University has a long tradition of sports and other extracurricular activities for both Japanese and foreign students.

With more than 450 teams, clubs, and interest groups, you can not only find other activities to complement your learning experience at Ritsumeikan University, but you can also enjoy new and old hobbies while connecting with other students. If you are interested in joining a specific club or community or want to learn about the types available, please visit the International Center on campus.

However, please understand that the time and energy requirements of Japanese University Clubs may be high. Therefore, it is recommended that you carefully check your goals before deciding to become a full member of the club or community.

Some examples of clubs and interest groups that Ritsumeikan University students can use include Aikido, Damien Kinden, Explorers Club, Japanese Tea Ceremony Club, Sumo, Cheerleading Club, Manga, CG and Game Clubs, etc.


Food at Ritsumeikan University - Biwako Kusatsu Campus

The Ritsumeikan University campus offers many dining options for students on the go. From a simple breakfast to traditional Japanese food, sandwiches, pancakes, and even Italian cuisine, everyone can enjoy the food served on campus.

Each of the three Ritsumeikan campuses has several restaurants, cafes, diners, cafeterias, and food vans that students love. The meals on offer are also inexpensive so students can spend time on campus. Students on all RU campuses;

  • 100 yen student breakfast buffet every day from 08:00 to 08:40.
  • English and international menus in various restaurants and eateries
  • Options available for Muslim students
  • Dinner at the Biwako Kusatsu and Osaka Ibaraki campuses

Transportation at Ritsumeikan University - Biwako Kusatsu Campus

All three Ritsumeikan University campuses are located on the bus or train route. Additionally, there is plenty of parking space for bicycles on each campus. Students can use the shuttle bus to travel between the Kinugasa campus,

Biwako-Kusatsu campus, and Osaka Ibaraki campus. Buses run multiple times throughout the day, and you can buy tickets for 300 JPY from university/specialty stores on each campus.

Students are not allowed to travel by car on the Ritsumeikan University campus. If you want to travel by bike or bike, you must first register your bicycle or motorcycle.

Bus Location:

Biwako-Kusatsu Campus: Adjacent to the entrance to Across Wing


About Kusatsu

Shiga-Kusatsu

During the Edo period, Kusatsu was an important transportation hub, and there was a luxury hotel dedicated to privileges for the upper class. Kusatsu is located in Shiga Prefecture, surrounded by Lake Biwa, the largest in Japan.

You can experience Shiga culture in historical sites such as Hikone Castle and Ishiyama Temple, where the famous novel "The Tale of Genji" was written about 1,000 years ago.

The technology centers of companies such as Panasonic, Fuji Technologies, and Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd. introduced the progress of the industry.

Ritsumeikan University’s three-wheeled Kusatsu campus is adjacent to Panasonic’s large factories and residential areas and is also located near the Meishin Expressway at the Kusatsu Tagami Interchange. Starting from the Lake Biwa Kusatsu campus, Ishiyama Temple is one of the best destinations to visit immediately nearby


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