Do you love to travel? Would you like to study abroad for a semester? Have you always wanted to see Japan? If the answer is yes to all three of those questions, then you might be the perfect candidate for Andrews University’s and Osaka Metropolitan University’s student exchange program. Yes, you read it right, Osaka Metropolitan University in Osaka, Japan. I know you probably have several questions, so let's dive into it!
What is this program? And, how is this my first time hearing about it?
Osaka Metropolitan University (OMU) and Andrews University have partnered since 2018 to create cross-cultural experiences for students, with the one-term exchange program beginning in 2019. This arrangement works by having two students from Andrews University switch places with two Japanese students for a fall semester of study. You can go take classes at OMU, which will then apply to your Andrews requirements. You live on OMU’s campus and have the freedom to explore Osaka and its culture, in addition to gaining exposure through classes and the university environment itself. This program has not been advertised as extensively as it should be; however, more students should be aware of this great opportunity!
What about subsidies and scholarships?
The process works as follows: the student will register for a full load of classes here at Andrews, and the Japanese student will do the same. Then they will simply switch places so the Andrews student pays Andrews tuition and gets all their financial aid, and the Japanese student with whom you are exchanging pays for tuition at their university. Yes, all your scholarships and subsidies will still apply, but only towards tuition. Your room and board would be charged separately, but it is less than the Andrews housing and meal plan.
OK, this sounds great, but will they even offer the classes I need?
While you won’t be taking upper-division classes for your specific majors, you will take three intensive mini-classes for a total of four credits (August to late September) on Social Innovation, Social Innovation in Practice and Social Innovation and the Global Classroom that can all contribute to your innovation certification at Andrews. For the fall semester (late September to mid-December), you will take Field Research: Social Innovation, International Collaborative Workshop, Introduction to Japanese Culture and Japan Studies: Language and Society for a total of 12 credits, bringing the semester’s grand total to 16 credits. The fall semester classes will count towards electives in Humanities and Culture, and for Honors, this experience will replace the “What is Other” requirement!
But what if I don’t speak Japanese?
This isn’t an issue as classes are taught in English. While some basic conversational Japanese would be helpful, you don't have to know the language prior to your experience. Just be open to learning from your peers and delve into the language and culture while you are there!
This sounds super cool! Where can I learn more?
Reach out to Aaron Moushon, the assistant dean for Undergraduate Initiatives, at moushona@andrews.edu and ask him about this opportunity. There are currently two slots open to students for the upcoming Fall 2026 semester!
But what if I cannot spend a whole semester?
That is understandable, and I have good news for you! Andrews and Osaka also partner for a short program of about 10 days during spring break every other year. This school year is an off-year, but there is an opportunity in the Spring 2027 semester, so if you will still be a student here at Andrews, reach out to Moushon in fall 2026 about this opportunity to not only visit Japan but also work with students from various backgrounds to identify problems and create innovative solutions regarding different situations!
Something that sets this abroad program apart from other travel opportunities at Andrews is the actual feeling of an exchange program. “To me personally, the most unique thing about this program is that it is a true exchange program in which one of our students goes to Japan and one of their students comes to study here at Andrews, giving each other the opportunity to see what it is like to live in the other’s shoes,” says Moushon, who runs the program. Take advantage of the semester abroad that Andrews University has to offer and discuss your eligibility and potential with Moushon today!
The Student Movement is the official student newspaper of Andrews University. Opinions expressed in the Student Movement are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors, Andrews University or the Seventh-day Adventist church.