Exploring the diverse world of British novels
The course is characterized by its academically in-depth exploration of British novels. Beyond world-renowned authors, students delve into a diverse range of genres, including historical and mystery novels reflecting unique British customs and class systems, as well as horror and children's literature. The joy of learning lies in appreciating the nuances and fascination of English expression, and gaining insight into the realities of British society, customs, and culture through the scenes and dialogues depicted in the novels. New doors of knowledge will open before your eyes. Akutagawa Prize-winning author Atsushi Sato, a graduate of the program, later revealed that he was greatly influenced by his mentor, Professor Yasuo Uematsu's lectures and textbook selection.
Learn English, and practice communication in English
Tohoku Gakuin was founded as a seminary to train pastors for Christian evangelism. At the time of its founding, proficiency in the four English skills—reading, writing, listening, and speaking—was essential for attending lectures given by American missionaries. The curriculum for acquiring these four skills developed into Department of English, and even today, learning "in English" is fundamental, not just learning "English." In addition to study abroad programs, including short-term study abroad programs, numerous international exchange events are held on campus where students can interact with international students, allowing them to test their practical English communication skills in a variety of settings.
What emerges from Shakespeare's works
Real life in the English Renaissance
Using Shakespeare's plays as a basis, this course explores how playwrights grappled with the British political system and international affairs from the late 16th to the 17th centuries. What were the underlying factors that led to the creation of numerous tragedies, exemplified by "Romeo and Juliet"? By delving into the divine right of kings, patriarchy, and the church system, we will deepen our understanding of British society at the time and consider the questions that the playwrights tried to raise about society. This intellectual experience of touching upon the realities of the British Renaissance that were not recorded in official documents is one of the greatest joys of university learning.
Unveiling the "musical notation" of pronunciation
Learning English from a phonetic perspective
We speak unconsciously in our daily lives, but there are common ways of pronouncing words and rules. The study of "phonology" explores this mechanism, which can be called the "musical score of pronunciation." In this department, students first learn the basics, such as phonetic symbols and how to use their mouths, in "English Phonetics," and then delve deeply into the regularity and theory of sounds through phonology. Learning English from the perspective of "sound" not only stimulates intellectual curiosity but also greatly helps improve listening skills, which are often a weakness for Japanese speakers.
Passionate faculty, supportive peers, and fulfilling lessons.
I found my dream at my ideal school.
3rd year student, Aika Sugano
(From Fukushima Prefecture / Graduate of Fukushima Minami High School)
There are many universities where you can study English, but I chose this university because I was attracted to the bright and open atmosphere I felt at the open campus and the professors. Now that I've enrolled, I've found the professors' instruction to be passionate and meticulous, and there are many motivated and serious students who can help each other grow. It's the ideal environment I had envisioned.
Initially, I vaguely thought, "I want to work using English," but now I'm clearly aiming to become a middle school English teacher. In the teacher training courses, I felt the rewards of the job from hearing the experiences of teachers with extensive field experience. Through volunteering to support children at school, I realized the joy of interacting with children. The "English Camp," a volunteer program where a group of students aiming to become teachers conduct English classes for elementary school students, was particularly meaningful. Like the teacher I admired in middle school, I want to become a teacher that students can talk to about anything.