Engineering, Technology, and Science
Unique Experiences
IMMERSE YOURSELF IN JAPANESE TRADITION
WITH A PRIVATE TEA CEREMONY AND LESSONS IN THE ART OF IKEBANA (FLOWER ARRANGING)
EXPLORE TOKYO’S INNOVATION HUB
AKIHABARA, AND VISIT CUTTING-EDGE ROBOTICS LABS AND TECH MUSEUMS
CONNECT WITH TOKYO’S VIBRANT STARTUP SCENE
THROUGH NETWORKING EVENTS WITH LOCAL ENTREPRENEURS AND INNOVATORS
200
MICHELIN STARS HAVE BEEN AWARDED TO TOKYO'S RESTAURANTS
4
UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES WITHIN TWO HOURS TRAVEL FROM TOKYO
2,080 FT
HEIGHT OF THE WORLD’S TALLEST TOWER, TOKYO SKYTREE, WITH OBSERVATIONS DECKS AND RESTAURANTS CONTAINED WITHIN
Your Destination
Tokyo, a city of contrasts, is where ancient traditions seamlessly merge with futuristic innovation. As the vibrant capital of Japan, Tokyo offers a dynamic blend of cultural heritage and cutting-edge technology, making it a one-of-a-kind destination for students. From the bustling streets of Shibuya, with its famous scramble crossing, to the tranquil gardens of the Imperial Palace, Tokyo is a city that never ceases to amaze. Students will discover everything from traditional tea ceremonies and kabuki performances to immersive tech hubs like Akihabara, known as the mecca of innovation and pop culture.
Beyond the city center lies Machida, a serene suburban area that provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. Located just 45 minutes from central Tokyo and a short journey to the vibrant port city of Yokohama, Machida offers the best of both worlds: Accessibility to major metropolitan areas and the charm of a green, laid-back environment. With its lush parks, welcoming community, and proximity to cultural and academic landmarks, Machida is the perfect place for students to balance rigorous academics with meaningful cultural exploration.
For those looking to explore further, Yokohama, Japan’s second-largest city, is nearby and boasts attractions like Minato Mirai, a waterfront district filled with museums, restaurants, and shopping. Students can stroll through Sankeien Garden, a beautiful traditional Japanese garden, or visit the Cup Noodles Museum for a playful and interactive experience. Together, Tokyo, Machida, and Yokohama provide endless opportunities for discovery, inspiration, and adventure.
We want all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while interning abroad. Local CIEE staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Monteverde.
Excursions & Activities
- Discover the historic and cultural side of Tokyo with guided visits to iconic landmarks such as the Meiji Shrine, Asakusa’s Senso-ji Temple, and the bustling Tsukiji Outer Market
- Immerse yourself in technology and innovation with excursions to Akihabara, the heart of Tokyo’s tech district, and guided tours of cutting-edge robotics labs
- Visit the beautiful city of Kamakura, known for its Great Buddha (Daibutsu) and serene temples, just a short train ride from Tokyo
- Participate in carefully curated STEM-focused activities such as visits to tech expos, research facilities, and guest lectures by local industry leaders
Experiential Learning
For-credit Part-time Internship: A for-credit part-time internship allows students the opportunity to have practical work experience in a company within the engineering, technology, or science sectors. In addition to the on-site business experience, students participating in an internship program have a weekly classroom component, which provides academic support to their practical experience. Additional application materials and home school approval are required.
Program Blogs
Top 10 Japanese Slang Words & Phrases You Must Know
Textbook Japanese is great and all, but if you really want to impress the locals, you need to know Japanese slang terms. These aren’t the phrases you’ll learn in class... keep reading
How to Study Japanese in Japan: 3 Easy Steps
If you’ve ever dreamed of ordering ramen like a pro, exploring ancient temples, or binge-watching anime without subtitles, studying Japanese in Japan is your next big adventure. With vibrant Tokyo... keep reading
Top 6 Places to Explore While Studying in Japan
By: Helena Shimeles During my experience studying overseas in Tokyo I was exposed to an array of adventures, across Japan. Each destination I explored offered a unique blend of traditions... keep reading
Housing & Meals
Housing
CIEE Tokyo offers a variety of housing options to ensure you feel comfortable and at home during your stay. From homestays to student residence halls, we strive to accommodate your preferences. Additionally, all housing options are located in neighborhoods with convenient access to public transportation, shops, and everything you need to make the most of your time in Tokyo.
Standard Housing: Includes two primary housing options, residence hall and homestays, designed to suit different living preferences while ensuring comfort and convenience during your stay.
- Residence Halls: Students can choose to live at the Oberlin International House, a newly built off-campus residence that offers modern amenities and a supportive living environment. Each student has a private single room equipped with a kitchenette and private bathroom. The residence hall also features shared spaces, including study rooms, meeting rooms, a TV lounge, and laundry facilities, encouraging interaction and community-building among residents. Conveniently located near public transportation routes, the residence halls are easily accessible, and a free shuttle bus takes students to the J.F. Oberlin University main campus in just 5 minutes and walking takes approximately 15 minutes to the J.F. Oberlin main campus.
- If the Oberlin international residence hall is fully booked, CIEE also provides alternative accommodation at a private residence hall which is located around 40-60 minutes by public transportation to the campus.
- Homestays: For students seeking a deeper cultural immersion, homestays provide the perfect opportunity to experience Japanese family life. Host families are located within a 30-minute to one-hour public transport commute from the J.F. Oberlin University main campus. Homestay students have the freedom to explore Tokyo independently while gaining a unique perspective on the country’s culture and traditions through everyday interactions with their host families.
Both options are in safe, accessible neighborhoods, with easy access to public transportation and nearby shops, ensuring students have everything they need to thrive during their time in Tokyo.
Meals
Residence Halls: Meals are not included. You will have shared kitchen facilities to prepare meals or purchase food and drinks at local grocers.
Homestays: Students have breakfast and dinner with their host families, and they are responsible for lunch. This arrangement includes breakfast and dinner every day of the week, giving students the chance to enjoy homemade Japanese meals while fostering meaningful connections with their hosts.
Academics
The CIEE Tokyo STEM program at J.F. Oberlin University’s Machida Campus offers an academically rigorous and immersive experience tailored for students pursuing engineering, technology, or science fields. Designed to enhance both academic and professional skills, this program provides a unique opportunity to study STEM in the context of Japan’s dynamic and innovative landscape.
At the heart of the program is one required course in engineering, technology, or science, ensuring a focused academic foundation. Additional electives allow students to explore a variety of topics, including Japanese culture, history, and society, offered through both CIEE and J.F. Oberlin University. These electives are designed to complement the core STEM curriculum and provide interdisciplinary perspectives that enrich the learning experience.
Classes at J.F. Oberlin University are delivered by experienced faculty and feature modern facilities equipped with state-of-the-art technology. Students also benefit from small class sizes and interactive learning environments that encourage collaboration and active participation. For those seeking to broaden their practical skills, credit-bearing internships in the STEM fields are available, offering hands-on experience and exposure to Japan’s cutting-edge industries.
This program balances rigorous academics with cultural immersion, ensuring students leave with a deeper understanding of their field and the global connections shaping the future of STEM.
Course Information
History, Philosophy, Religion
Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services
Engineering and Engineering Technologies
Natural Resources, Conservation, and the Environment
Psychology
J.F. Oberlin University
Not all courses listed are offered every semester, and some courses have prerequisites. The final list of courses is made available during the course enrollment process.
J.F. Oberlin University at a glance
The following list of courses constitutes a representative sample of course offerings through the university and is subject to change. In some cases, prior background knowledge may be required to enroll in a class.
- Culture & Identity
- Fieldwork in Japan
- Approaches to Japan
- Premodern History
- Japanese Aesthetics
- Jp Theatrical Arts
- Works of A. Kurosawa
- Smartphone Filmmaking
- Multiculturalism
- Issues and Debates
- Modern Cultural History
- US-JP Exchanges
- Japanese Cinema
- Multiculturalism
- Gender Representation
In cases where courses require a certain level of Japanese proficiency, students may be unable to take them if they do not meet that level. Students may also apply for the Chinese language courses, if qualified.
CIEE courses will be offered at Oberlin Machida campus. These courses are only offered to CIEE students.
Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment.
"(GI)" denotes courses that originated at CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple CIEE sites.
Scholarships & Grants
CIEE offers scholarships and grants annually to help students like you make your study abroad dream a reality.
Students who apply to this program are eligible for the following scholarships and grants:
- Wollitzer Merit Scholarships in Area or Comparative Studies
- Ping Scholarships for Academic Excellence
- CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
- MSI Grant
- Trailblazer Grant
To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application.
Dates & Fees
You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with CIEE, because our high-quality programs include everything from excursions to insurance. There are no hidden charges, and no disappointing surprises when you arrive.
Program |
Application Due |
Start Date |
End Date |
Fees & Housing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Program Fall 2025 16 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * |
*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.
To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses. In addition, your college or university may charge additional fees for study abroad, or may require you to receive a transcript via CIEE's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
What's Included
Tuition
Housing
Pre-departure Advising
Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions
Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet
Orientation
Introduction to your program plus practical information about living in your host city
On-site Staff
Full-time program leadership and support in your city
Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities
Excursions and/or Study Tours
Travel Protection
CIEE iNext travel protection
24/7 emergency on-site support
Our Staff
Brendan Delahunty
Center Director
Brendan is a long-time resident of Japan, originally hailing from Sydney, Australia
Saya Nishina
Director of Operations
Saya gained extensive experience in the language education industry, working in various departments including sales/marketing, human resources, academic affairs, new business development, and international operations in Japan for more than 20 years.
Rumi Mizusako
College Program Coordinator
Rumi is passionate about encouraging others to explore beyond what they have always known and to engage in different cultures and values.
Get Started
1
2
Connect With Your Campus Study Abroad Office
Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad.
3
Contact Us
Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.
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