Temple University honor cords are prepared ahead of a commencement ceremony at Main Campus. Photo by Joseph V. Labolito.
The Japan campus of Temple University (TUJ) is amplifying its commitment to student success by launching its first-ever Honors Program and a cutting-edge undergraduate certificate program in English language teaching, starting in Fall 2025. These new developments, along with a strengthened psychology major, underscore TUJ’s dedication to providing a dynamic and relevant educational experience.
“The introduction of an Honors Program at TUJ reflects our commitment to providing academically ambitious students with a rigorous and enriching learning experience,” said Yasuko Taoka, associate dean of academic affairs at TUJ. “Alongside this, the new certificate in English language teaching offers valuable career-building opportunities, while the strengthened psychology major responds directly to student requests for a clearer and more comprehensive program. These initiatives ensure that TUJ students are well-prepared to excel in their fields and make meaningful contributions in Japan and beyond.”
The Honors Program will cultivate intellectual curiosity, community, social courage, and leadership, preparing students to be impactful global citizens through enriching academic and extracurricular opportunities. All incoming first-year students are invited to apply, with current and transfer students also able to apply after their first semester.
The English language teaching certificate will give students a competitive edge in the job market, particularly in Japan, where bilingual talent is in high demand. The four-course program is taught by faculty from Temple University’s renowned Graduate College of Education, which offers a master’s program in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) and a doctoral program in Applied Linguistics. It provides practical teaching strategies and a strong foundation in English instruction.
Building on this momentum, TUJ is also enhancing its psychology major, formerly psychological studies, with new courses and increased credits to provide students with a more in-depth and focused education. Temple University’s psychology program is highly regarded nationwide and is ranked No.68 in the best undergraduate psychology category by U.S. News and World Report.
TUJ’s commitment to innovation extends beyond Tokyo. With the recent opening of TUJ Kyoto, the university will offer Honors Program courses in Kyoto, expanding opportunities for students from Tokyo and visiting students from overseas. This follows the 2023 launch of a bachelor’s degree in Tourism, Hospitality, and Event Management and an esports certificate program, further solidifying TUJ’s position as a forward-thinking institution.
TUJ is the oldest and largest branch campus of a foreign university in Japan. A branch campus of Temple University, a distinguished U.S. institution based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (Carnegie R1), TUJ hosts a diverse student body from about 80 countries and regions. With a student body exceeding 2,900, TUJ continues to grow, marked by the opening of TUJ Kyoto in January 2025 and a growing portfolio of undergraduate and graduate programs.
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