Courses in Japan

Academic Program

Green River College tuition is not included in the program fee.

This is a study program. Students must carry a 15-credit load and are expected to fully participate in all class activities. The courses offered are specially chosen to give participants interesting, valuable and relevant instruction that exposes students to the historical and cultural differences that are unique to Japan.

Note: Since a Japanese language course is being offered in this program, it is required for the student to memorize the Hiragana and Katakana alphabet before the trip! Having a foundational knowledge of the alphabet and the language will help students feel more comfortable navigating the class and will greatly enhance their cultural immersion experience. 

Course Descriptions

Japanese Class (Various levels)

5 Language Credits

Japanese Language classes are offered in various levels (basic-intermediate). Students will take a placement test to determine their language level and placement. It is required to learn the Hiragana and the Katakana alphabets before your trip. These classes will be taught by a Miyazaji Municipal University faculty member.

Digital Photography (Photo 111, 112 or 113)

5 Fine Arts Credits

"Introduction to Digital Photography in Japan" is a beginner-level course aimed at students interested in exploring the fundamentals of digital photography within the context of Japan's unique geographic and cultural setting. The course will cover essential photography principles, including camera operation, composition, lighting, and post-processing, while providing students with the opportunity to apply these skills in real-world settings. Through field trips, guided photography sessions, and cultural immersion, students will gain a deeper appreciation for Japan as a subject of photographic art.

Art Appreciation (Art& 100)

5 Fine Arts Credits

Art Appreciation in Japan" offers an immersive exploration into Japanese art, aimed at students with an interest in understanding how art reflects and influences culture and society. The course covers a wide range of artistic mediums and periods, emphasizing the historical context, thematic elements, and techniques employed by Japanese artists. Students will learn to appreciate the aesthetic principles that underlie Japanese art, from the simplicity and elegance of wabi-sabi to the vibrant and dynamic forms of contemporary anime and manga.

Faculty

Meet the faculty.

Chad White

Bellevue College Faculty - Art Department/Photography

Chad White is an award winning educator and national speaker with over 17 years of experience teaching in higher education. He received a B.F.A. in Fine Arts from the University of New Mexico and an M.F.A. in Fine Arts from Arizona State University. Chad currently serves as the Chair of the Art Department and the faculty head of photography at Bellevue College where he has taught courses in intro to film and digital photography, art & technology, studio lighting, and advanced photography. Previous experience includes leading art and photography workshops at the Phoenix Art Museum, island sailing tours within the Puget Sound, and at Olympic National Park to name a few. Recently, Chad has been extensively traveling throughout Japan for a new photographic series based on the intersection of art & technology and cultural and social phenomenon. His professional work is exhibited and published internationally and is held in numerous public and private collections.