Futaba College of Foreign Languages
Dr. Ryuji Hayashi founded East West Institution Group, which includes Futaba College of Foreign Languages (FCFL), in March 1960. FCFL is conveniently located in Chiba City, approximately 35 minutes from Tokyo on the JR Sobu rapid train line, and close to parks and other peaceful areas recommended for studying and sightseeing. The central location of the school also makes it ideal for locating part-time jobs and even securing a house in which to live.
Chiba is famous for its rich historical and cultural background, as well as the high-concentration of technology-related companies in, and around, Makuhari Messe. The cost of living in Chiba is also approximately 30% cheaper than living in Tokyo. With over 40 years of experience in teaching foreign languages and international exchange, Futaba College of Foreign Languages has welcomed over 3000 students from more than 30 countries. The following are some important dates in the school's history:
In September 1989, FCFL was granted visa proxy certification from the Ministry of Justice. As a result, FCFL staff is able to handle the process of visa renewal and/or status change by visiting the immigration office on behalf of its students (foreign students are required to renew their visas every 6 or 12 months).
In April 1990, FCFL was approved as a founding member school of the Association for Promotion of Japanese Language Education.
In January 1994, the name was changed from East West College of Foreign Languages to the current name of Futaba College of Foreign Languages.
In April 1997, on account of: a history of good report submissions; quality of curriculum and students; and high-standard facilities, FCFL was approved as a school capable of issuing students a one-year visa.
Curriculum
Futaba College of Foreign Languages not only focuses on developing Japanese proficiency, but also provides students with a fundamental understanding and appreciation of Japanese culture. FCFL offers a wide curriculum for those students wishing to continue on to vocational colleges, colleges, and universities in Japan. FCFL's faculty is also devoted to teaching, interacting with students, and respecting each individual's uniqueness.
Class Information & Lesson Content
Morning and afternoon classes are 4 hours per day from Monday through Friday (800 hours per academic year) and provide students with well-balanced instruction in the 4 basic abilities of reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
First Term: Beginner Level Course (the first 6 months of study)
The primary focus of this class is to practice conversational ability for daily life including basic grammar, vocabulary, listening, pronunciation, and writing. (Target Level: Level 3 of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test)
Second Term: Intermediate Course (6 months to 1 year of study)
The primary focus of this class is on Japanese comprehension and its practical usage including grammar and sentence patterns, communication ability, short essay construction, personal and business letter writing, and preparation for the Japanese Language Proficiency Test. (Target Level: Level 1 & 2 of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test). As electives, students planning on entering universities can take examination preparation courses in English, Mathematics, and World History.
Third Term: Advanced Course (more than 1 year of study)
The primary focus of this class is more advanced sentence comprehension and production, understanding and appreciation of Japanese literature, understanding Japanese society and culture, debating and discussion. (Target Level: Japanese Language Interpreter Test) .
Other Lessons and Extracurricular Activities
Each year, a broad range of cultural classes such as Flower Arrangement, Tea Ceremony, and Japanese Cooking are offered. In addition, the school organizes a number of extracurricular activities such as hiking trips, bus tours (e.g., Mt. Fuji), sporting events, and attending theatrical performances. Many students also participate in speech contests sponsored by the school, Chiba City and/or Chiba Prefecture.
Professional and Academic Guidance
Futaba College of Foreign Languages' knowledgeable teachers and staff have extensive experience in counseling students about universities and professional schools. Moreover, their teaching expertise plays an important role in the large number of students who pass the entrance examinations to top-ranking universities and Level 1 on the Japanese Language Proficiency Test. Finally, students who have outstanding academic records and strong studying abilities may be able to receive recommendation letters of the president and could be considered for entry to our affiliated universities and vocational colleges with special conditions.