Questions and answers about Senmon Gakko in Japan
What is a Senmon Gakko?
Senmon Gakko, or vocational schools in Japan, are specialized institutions where students can gain practical skills in a specific field. The programs offered at these schools typically last 2 to 3 years, focusing on hands-on learning rather than theoretical education. They are designed for students who know which profession they want to pursue, providing training that leads directly into the workforce. They are a bit similar to Community Colleges in the USA.
Popular Programs at Senmon Gakko
Senmon Gakko schools offer a wide variety of programs, including fields such as:
- Anime and Animation
- Manga and Illustration
- Game Design
- Fashion Design
- Graphic Design
- Culinary Arts
- Music Production
- Photography
- Hospitality and Tourism
- Information Technology
- Nursing
These programs are structured to meet the demands of specific industries, ensuring that students graduate with relevant skills and knowledge for their chosen field.
What are the prerequisites for Studying at a Senmon Gakko?
To be eligible for admission, international students generally need to:
- Graduate from high school: You must have completed at least 12 years of formal education in your home country.
- Japanese Language Proficiency: Most programs are taught in Japanese, so students need to have passed the JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) at N2 level or higher to demonstrate their fluency.
- Complete a Language School: Many students first attend a Japanese language school, which can help them reach the required language level before applying to a Senmon Gakko. This can take 40 to 80 weeks, depending on the student's starting level and commitment.
How Can Language Schools Help You Apply?
If you're not yet fluent in Japanese, attending a language school in Japan is the first step toward getting accepted into a Senmon Gakko. These schools provide intensive Japanese language courses, often including preparation for the JLPT. They can also assist with the application process by helping translate necessary documents and submitting visa applications on your behalf.
Your language school can often help you to find and apply to a suitable Senmon Gakko once your Japanese is starting to get good enough.
Post-Graduation Rights to Work in Japan
After completing a program at a Senmon Gakko, you can apply for a work visa if you secure employment in your field of study. Graduates typically find jobs in industries like IT, fashion, culinary arts, or animation. You are allowed to stay in Japan for up to a year after graduation while searching for a job, and once employed, your employer can sponsor your work visa.
Compared to university graduates, Senmon Gakko students often find it easier to get work in practical industries because their training is directly applicable to job roles.
What Degree Do You Get After Senmon Gakko?
The two-year courses at Senmon Gakko usually lead to a Diploma, while the three-year courses result in an Advanced Diploma.
Differences Between Senmon Gakko and University Education in Japan
While universities focus on broad academic learning and theoretical knowledge, Senmon Gakko schools concentrate on practical, career-oriented training. University degrees typically take four years, with a focus on research and theory, whereas Senmon Gakko programs last two to three years, emphasizing hands-on skills needed for specific jobs.
Can I Transfer From Senmon Gakko to a University in Japan?
Yes, some universities allow you to transfer directly into the third year after completing a two-year diploma at Senmon Gakko. To do this, you often need to take the 3nenji hennyuu shiken exam, which replaces the EJU exam that international students typically take when applying to Japanese universities from the first year.
However, this transfer process can be complicated. If you already know that you want to study at a university, it may be better to apply directly from the first year. Senmon Gakko is primarily designed for those who want to acquire practical skills and enter the workforce immediately after graduation, while the universities have a more theoretical approach.
Notable Senmon Gakko Groups
Akademeia 21st Century (formerly Adachi Education Group)
Akademeia 21st Century is a well-established group of Senmon Gakko schools across Japan. They are particularly known for programs in creative industries such as animation, fashion design, and game development. The group has campuses in Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka, making it accessible to students across Japan. Their schools are recognized for their strong industry connections, ensuring students get internships and real-world experience while studying.
Aso College Group
The Aso College Group is another major player in the vocational education sector, with campuses in Fukuoka. They offer popular programs in fields like IT, nursing, design, and automotive technology. Aso College is known for its practical training and job placement success, boasting a high employment rate among graduates. Their focus on both technical skills and personal development makes them a solid choice for students looking to enter the workforce quickly.
Why Choose These Schools?
Both Akademia 21st and Aso College Group offer practical programs tailored to meet the needs of today’s job market. With strong industry links, modern facilities, and a focus on real-world skills, they prepare students to transition seamlessly into their careers. Their programs are ideal for students who are clear about their professional goals and want to build a career in fields like animation, IT, fashion, or design.
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