International College of Liberal Arts at Yamanashi Gakuin University

iCLA equips its students with essential skills for success in the global workforce. Through its interdisciplinary curriculum, students develop critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving abilities highly valued by employers. With a strong emphasis on cultural diversity, iCLA fosters adaptability and cross-cultural competence. Hands-on opportunities, including internships, research projects, and optional study abroad programs, provide real-world experience.

ICLA’s small class sizes encourage collaboration, and personalised guidance is provided to each student by professors, helping students define their career goals. The university offers a structured career support program throughout the four-year degree, including regular sessions with alumni and HR professionals, career forums and job fairs, and career counselling to prepare students for the Japanese job-hunting process that typically begins in 3rd year. By combining academic knowledge with practical skills, iCLA ensures graduates are well-prepared to thrive in diverse professional environments.

iCLA is in the city of Kofu, the capital of Yamanashi Prefecture. Surrounded by mountains and nature, the picturesque landscapes of Yamanashi are a perfect location to enjoy the varied beauty of Japan’s four seasons.

The area around Kofu is home to sizable jewellery and robotics industries, whilst also being a major agricultural hub known for its high-quality fruit farms and vineyards. Yamanashi is Japan’s top producer of grapes, peaches, plums and wine.

To the south of Kofu lies Mt Fuji and its Five Lakes area. A popular tourist destination, it is also home to Fuji Q Highlands, a mecca for rollercoaster enthusiasts.

Living in Kofu provides students with all the convenience of living in a modern Japanese city at a greatly reduced cost of living compared with Tokyo. Kofu has great access to Tokyo, with Shinjuku station in the heart of Tokyo reachable by train in 90 minutes.

At iCLA, student support is a top priority, ensuring that every student feels empowered to succeed both academically and personally. iCLA provides a wide range of services designed to assist students throughout their university journey. Academic advisors offer personalised guidance to help students plan their pathway through iCLA’s majors and stay on track for graduation. Faculty members are approachable and available to provide extra support through small, interactive classes.

For international students, iCLA offers comprehensive support, including assistance with visas, housing, and adjusting to life in Japan. The dedicated Student Affairs Team can assist with general daily support, and counselling services are also available. Career Support advisors offer resources for resume building and finding internships and job placements.

Clubs, events, and cultural exchange programs also create opportunities for students to build friendships and feel part of a vibrant, inclusive community. Whether through one-on-one mentoring, academic workshops, or social activities, iCLA ensures students have the support they need to thrive in all aspects of university life.

In iCLA’s affordable on-campus housing, international and Japanese students live together, creating natural opportunities for global friendships.

Residence halls feature a thoughtful balance of private and shared spaces. Dormitories are divided by gender, with each floor containing three units, and each unit housing a maximum of eight students in private rooms that share common facilities including a mini kitchen, shower rooms, and toilets. Residents have 24-hour access to laundry facilities.

This living arrangement is specifically designed to provide students flexibility in managing their privacy and social interactions according to their personal preferences and lifestyle needs. Living in dormitories and being enrolled in iCLA’s meal plan, which provides 3 meals a day on class days, is mandatory for all first-year students, giving them the smoothest landing possible into Japan.

Yamanashi Gakuin University offers a wide range of modern, high-quality facilities designed to support student life, learning, and wellbeing. The iCLA building itself features bright, open spaces, group study areas, and comfortable lounges that encourage collaboration and creativity. Students also have access to a well-stocked library with both English and Japanese resources, as well as a music studio, art studio, and a traditional Japanese dojo and tea room for cultural activities.

As part of Yamanashi Gakuin University, iCLA students can also use the wider campus facilities, including a the on-campus gym and various sporting grounds. On-campus dormitories provide a safe and convenient living environment, designed to foster a strong sense of community among students from around the world. Dining halls, cafés, and convenience stores are also available on and around the campus, making daily life easy and comfortable.