Joint degree programme with Japanese University in the works

Visiting Musashi University in Tokyo, Passau's Vice President for International Relations, Professor Ursula Reutner, discussed a future joint degree programme modelled on Passau's highly successful International Cultural and Business Studies programmes (ICBS), among other things.

Vice President Ursula Reutner received a warm welcome from Professor Tetsuya Yamazaki and representatives from the various faculties of Musashi University. Source: Musashi University

With about 4,500 students, Musashi is one of the smaller universities in Japan. 'Academics at Musashi University achieve excellent places in research rankings and still put a lot of effort into the education of their students. That makes Mushashi a promising partner for our University,' said the Vice President. The academic profile of the university is a good fit with that of the University of Passau in terms of research and teaching focus.

The Japanese side showed particular interest in the highly cross-disciplinary ICBS degree programmes. 'This is why both universities agreed to establish a double degree programme,' said Ursula Reutner. ICBS is one of Passau's hallmark degree programmes. Currently, Students enrolled in the programme have double degree options with universities in Argentina, France, Scotland and Turkey. The Vice President added that it would be exciting to export this successful concept to Japan next. Professor Jürgen Kamm, Chairman of the Board of Examiners and Programme Convenor, agreed: '"Exporting" ICBS to Japan would constitute a significant enrichment for the University of Passau, not only because Japan is an important economic power, but also because of the Japanese culture.'

Students from disciplines other than International Cultural and Business Studies also stand to benefit from the partnership with Musashi University, for instance, by completing the one-year East Asian Studies programme at Musashi University, which does not require prior knowledge of the Japanese language. The programme is comprised of Japanese language lessons in the mornings and afternoon courses on Asian culture, business and law.