Learning Japanese can be a daunting task as it is considered one of the most challenging foreign languages. However, have you considered the many advantages of mastering Japanese? For instance, a good command of Japanese could facilitate travel to Japan.
Furthermore, those interested in pursuing higher education in Japanese universities – which are globally renowned – can then establish themselves in Japan professionally. By acquiring proficiency in Japanese, one’s job prospects and skillset value can rise significantly.
We will introduce you to one of Yokohama’s esteemed Japanese language schools, located in Japan’s second-largest city, renowned as a significant port city famous for its awe-inspiring views. This school can help you kick-start your career aspirations in Japan. Please explore the advantages of enrolling with the Yokohama Design College (YDC) below!
In addition, if you are interested in finding another college or vocational schools in Japan that offers education in engineering, design, business, and other majors, the following reading recommendations may be of use to you.
Read more:
Yamano College of Aesthetics
ECC Kokusai College of Foreign Language
Kansai College of Business and Languages
Contents
A Brief Overview of Yokohama Design College (YDC)
Yokohama Design College (YDC) Vocational School, was founded in 1948 and recognized by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT) in 2014 as an applied professional post-secondary course. Since 2001, the school has included Japanese language courses as part of its general program. Two years later, the course was transformed into a specialized program. In 2010, the school expanded its Japanese language program into a comprehensive course.
What sets this college apart is not only the chance to study Japanese, but also the chance to acquire skills in manga design, visual design, and fashion. These proficiencies carry significant weight in today’s job market.
Educational Policies & Philosophy
What are the educational policies and goals of this school? What is the educational philosophy guiding the establishment of this school? If you’re curious, keep reading for an overview of some key points.
1. Educational Goals
The creation of this Japanese language school has two primary objectives: enhancing Japanese language proficiency and enriching Japanese culture. Yokohama Design University’s mission is to advance Japanese language education for students from around the world. This enables students to cultivate critical language and cultural competencies that are beneficial both professionally and personally.
2. Tailored Guidance
The College provides an education that is responsive to the needs of each individual. Students receive easy-to-understand learning and instruction tailored to their needs. For those who wish to attend college, graduate school, or the like, for example, the College offers preparatory courses for EJU and JLPT. It also provides balanced training in reading, writing, speaking, as well as listening skills.
3. Providing Education and Guidance with Sincerity
YDC aims to inspire a greater appreciation for Japanese culture and history among individuals. As such, our sincere commitment to educational excellence offers guidance and support for students looking to enroll in this college.
4. A Variety of Classes
YDC provides classes that concentrate on mastering Kanji and conversational skills. Classes differentiate between students from countries that use Kanji and those who do not. Moreover, YDC organizes various events within schools to boost students’ proficiency in Japanese language skills.
The Main Service and Facilities of YDC
Student Support
The Yokohama Design College offers numerous services to aid its students. Of particular significance, the International Center furnishes a secure and pleasant atmosphere for learning. Additionally, a Career Support Center assists students in fulfilling their ambitions. Please peruse the following list for additional information and particulars concerning the support that is accessible.
1. Classes and Events
At this college, you can participate in a range of events held throughout the year and receive intensive support in preparing for JLPT exams, post-graduation exhibitions, and other exciting programs. Monthly, multiple courses and events are available to connect with friends from all around the world and share your aspirations. Furthermore, these events can help you gain a deeper understanding of Japan and emphasize the significance of language and communication.
2. International Center
The Yokohama Design College International Center provides a plethora of support services to foster a secure and pleasant learning atmosphere for international students. Whether you need assistance with daily life challenges or advice about your future endeavors highly dedicated and professional staff are always at your disposal to provide sincere help.
3. Career Support Center
At YDC, you will receive intensive support from teachers and a Career Support Center. Both support individual student skills and those related to the job fair. The Career Support Center will support students until they are able to plan their future, be independent, as well as able to find the right company to build a career.
Environment and Facilities
The environment and facilities are essential factors that strongly influence a person’s development. Therefore, a safe and comfortable learning environment is very important. Moreover, YDC provides a comfortable learning environment. Here you will also get high-quality facilities. This will surely stimulate your creativity as well as enhance your growth while being a part of this college.
| Facilities | Details |
| 1. General Classrooms | The classrooms are bright and spacious. There is a projector to support presentations and others. |
| 2. Lounge & Terrace | An open patio and indoor lounge where instructors, teachers, and students can keep each other company. |
| 3. Computer Lab | A digital lab with workstations and various types of professional software for design instruction. |
| 4. Drawing Studio | A studio for drawing theme sketches for students taking art classes. |
| 5. Manga Workshop | A room with individual partitions equipped with magazines and comics for reference. |
| 6. Sewing Room | The room is equipped with industrial sewing machines, ironing machines, and work tables for designing and sewing. |
The Course and Price at YDC
Japanese Language Courses
At Yokohama Design College, you can choose 2 courses in Japanese. They are the Japanese language course in the special course or the special course (comprehensive course). These two courses have different objectives and programs. You can choose according to your needs. Please read the following descriptions of the specifications of each course.
(1) Japanese Language Course in Specialized Courses
For this course, the target JLPT level is N5 to N1. Then, there are 2 kinds of special courses, such as college and career preparation courses in Japan, and short-term courses. In learning, this college divides students into small groups to make learning more effective. In this way, the course can help students achieve their own goals. Moreover, YDC also welcomes all non-students to learn Japanese.
(2) Specialized Courses (Comprehensive Courses)
In specialized courses or comprehensive programs, on the other hand, the goal for the JLPT is N2 or equivalent. With this course, students will receive help in finding a job in Japan or a Japanese company in their home country. In addition, students can also learn various skills such as translation, interpretation, accounting, commerce, and more.
Japanese Language Course Expenses
Course expenses at YDC vary depending on the type of course and the length of the course you wish to take. Thus, please read the following table to know the expenses for the Japanese Language Course in Specialized Courses.
Expenses for the Japanese Language Course in Specialized Courses
| Course | 2-year Course | 1.5-year Course | 1-year Course | Short-term course |
| Program Schedule | April 2021 to March 2023 | October 2020 to March 2022 | From April 2021 to March 2022 or October 2020 to September 2021 | From 1 to 6 months |
| Application Period | From early August 2020 to late October 2020 *for April enrollment | From early March 2020 to late May 2020 **for October enrollment | Refer to * or ** | The program starts in any month |
| Expenses in Total | ¥1,455,000 or $11,264 | ¥1,116,000 or $8,634 | ¥785,000 or $6,077 | ¥66,000 or $511 for 1 month, ¥117,000 or $906 for 2 months and ¥168,000 or $1300 for 3 months |
In addition, note that certain courses may incur extra expenses for study materials. Also, please keep in mind that the aforementioned fees are subject to change.
Reviews
According to some of the information, we have gathered, the Yokohama Design College (YDC) has received a rating of 4.5 stars and above. What are the advantages of this school? The reviewers have mentioned the following points:
- Affordable expenses.
- Very kind and supportive teachers.
- Very convenient location to study.
- Professional and supportive staff.
Furthermore, what do you think about it? Do you have any experience learning Japanese at this school? We would be very happy if you would share your review directly with us. Please leave your feedback in the comment column below.
FAQ about Learning Japanese at Japanese Language School
Below we summarize frequently asked questions by prospective students regarding Japanese language and language schools in Japan. Please review and gain a better understanding.
These FAQs have been compiled to assist in answering any questions or curiosities you may have. We hope you find them helpful.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we would like to ask you to reconsider some of the above points. Please let us know what you think of the information presented. We are also very happy to receive any comments. As well as the suggestions for our next improvements. Hope you get a helpful insight about the Yokohama Design College (YDC).
