Keio University
日本語
日本語

Plurilingual and Pluricultural Studies

Plurilingual and Pluricultural Studies is a program within the Faculty of Economics that cultivates a broad cultural understanding beyond economics, beginning with second language acquisition. The program actively fosters diversity through Japanese, the study of English and other languages, thereby encouraging students to think from multiple perspectives. Students develop a global perspective by delving into linguistic, cultural, and social issues specific to various regions. To complete this program, students are required to successfully finish mandatory second foreign language courses and deepen their understanding of the culture and social issues of specific regions through approved lectures. Furthermore, they must either submit an academic paper as part of an Independent Research Project or participate in an approved faculty exchange program in one of the aforementioned specific regions.

Four program tracks will be opened in 2026: German, French, Chinese and Spanish. Please refer to "General Information for Each Course" including the teaching staff in charge of Independent Research Project, completion requirements and the list of exchange program destinations.

Courses and Requirements for a Certificate

The Plurilingual and Pluricultural Studies curriculum consists of the following three types of courses.

1. Mandatory second foreign language courses (8 credits)

* However, if credits are earned for a third foreign language, this requirement is reduced to 4 credits.

2. Approved lecture and seminar courses (8 credits or more, selectable from types i, ii and iii)

i. Lectures focused on topics relevant to the program

ii. Seminars offering in-depth discussion on relevant topics

iii. Language courses beyond mandatory classes

* Please refer to "General Information for Each Course."

3. Independent Research Project / Study abroad (i or ii)

i.  An Independent Research Project supervised by a second language teacher (this project is worth 6 credits referring to Independent Research Project ab and C)

ii.  Study abroad via an approved faculty exchange program in a specific linguistic region (a report is required upon return from studying abroad)

* Please refer to "Procedures for Program Completion via Study Abroad" and "Study Abroad Program Completion Application"

General Information for Each Course
Procedures for Program Completion via Study Abroad
Study Abroad Program Completion Application

Eligible Students

Both Type AB students and PEARL students may apply.

Application Guidelines

  • Application period: In principle, students should submit their application as soon as they satisfy the program's completion requirements, immediately following the announcement of final grades. However, if a student does not submit an application after completing all relevant coursework in their 3rd year, they may apply at the end of their 4th year.

  • Application method: Applications must be submitted via prescribed form on K-Support (Please note that the application window is typically limited to a few days. Detailed instructions will be posted on K-Support when grade reports are published)

  • Documents to be submitted: Academic transcript.

  • Note: If you need to have courses approved that are not listed as "Approved courses," you must verify the validity of such courses by contacting the program coordinators at least two months prior to the publication of grade reports.

Contact information for inquiries

Plurilingual and Pluricultural Studies coordinator

plus-group@keio.jpFor questions related to the curriculum, program requirements, or other academic matters, please contact the Plurilingual and Pluricultural Studies Coordinator.