I. Introduction to University of Tsukuba
University of Tsukuba, founded in October 1973, is one of Japan's leading comprehensive universities. University of Tsukuba is located in Tsukuba city of Ibaraki Prefecture. Tsukuba University is one of the oldest national universities (established by the Government of Japan) and is one of the most prestigious universities in Japan. The University has 28 majors with about 16,500 students. Tsukuba's main campus covers an area of 258 hectares and the university has the second largest campus in Japan.
A part of Tsukuba University campus
II. Transcript:
- Marine Biology I (1 credit): Grade A
- Mathematical Economics (2 credits): Grade A
- Introduction to contemporary Japanese society (1 credit): Point B
- Water Environmental Management Technology (1 credit): Point A
- Advanced Mathematics (Advanced Mathematics) (1 credit): Grade B
- Specialized Field Practice III (1 credit): Grade A
- Specialized Field Practice V (1 credit): Grade A
- Specialized Field VI practice (1 credit): Grade A
- Global Issued Internship (1 credit): Point A
- Basic global society (1 credit): Grade A
- Trans-ASEAN Global Agenda Debate (1 credit): Point A
III. Life in Japan
The beginning of the spring semester at Tsukuba University starts in mid-April, when it is still very cold in Japan, so you should prepare clothes to stay warm and also protect your health when you come to study on this occasion. The weather turns hot after around 1 to 2 months, so there's no need to bring too much cold clothing.
Near the university there are many supermarkets selling items such as food, drinks, and household goods (Kasumi, Welcia, Lawson, Seven Eleven, and second-hand stores, 100-yen-price shops (20,000 VND).
The price is generally quite expensive so in order to save money; you should buy food and cook yourself. One month living expenses including meals, accommodation and outings is about 70,000 yen (14 million VND).
The campus is very large and there are bus routes around the school. Annual bus tickets cost about VND 1,800,000. Alternatively, buy a bike around the school if you do not travel by bus. Taxi in Japan is very expensive so i suggest to travel by subway if going out.
English ability of Japanese people is very limited so it is difficult to communicate with native speakers in English. But Japanese people are very willing to help.
IV. Extracurricular and study at University of Tsukuba:
1. University tour:
TAG-AIMS students will be guided by a Japanese student at Tsukuba University to visit the campus around the school.
2. Meeting with high school students in Saitama Prefecture
As part of the classroom, meet and interact with high school students to better understand Japanese culture and the difference in the education system in Japan.
3. Asian Coffee
Each Thursday, this event takes place. A new country will be scheduled each week. Activities include introducing the country and culture, and arranging games of cooking to give you a better understanding of the culture of the nation.
Some pictures of Asian Coffee:
Hanging out with student from other countries in TAG-AIMS program:
IV. Conclusion
Living and studying for only 5 short months at Tsukuba University, but for me it was a valuable experience. I've learned more about Japan's human, country and culture. I would like to express my sincere thanks to Thuyloi University and School of International Education for giving me the opportunity to have a great experience in Japan.