An Interdisciplinary Approach - Soka University Faculty of International Liberal Arts

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Program Features
An Interdisciplinary Approach

Jobs of the 21st century will require an individual to examine issues, problems, and solutions from an interdisciplinary perspective. To prepare for this complexity of today’s global issues, students will have a variety of academic choices that provide both breadth and depth. In Years 1 and 2, students will be able to choose from a variety of principles courses such as Philosophy, History, Sociology, Economics, Business, Politics and International Relations (and others). In Years 3 and 4, students will be able to gain more in-depth content knowledge through specialized courses such as: Modern Political Thought, Transnational Migration, International Bargaining, Development Economics, and Management Science (19 courses are offered). Furthermore, a small-group classroom environment (Faculty-student ratio is 1 to 20) is conducive to active discussions, further developing students’ academic, research, presentation and English communication skills.
Professors will offer their individual perspectives and methods of analysis, resulting in the students’gaining a deeper understanding of different academic disciplines. Tying together the different strands from these fields will weave the fabric of an organized knowledge base. Collaborative learning implemented to induce creative problem-solving methods will lead to the development of analytical thinking and improved communication skills.

Courses

Examining "Theories and Models of Development through Education" and the Possibilities of Learning and Education

Globalization has led to more sameness than differences in national educational policies and systems. It is necessary to consider issues such as whether this is the right thing to do and whether it is related to cultural, ethnic, and national contexts. This course examines the theory and practice of sustainable development of education in developed and developing countries. By examining theories and models of development through education, students will consider the possibilities for learning and education from locally rooted knowledge and other sources.

Examining the importance of diplomacy and intergovernmental negotiations in a globalized world

This course will study diplomacy and intergovernmental negotiations in a globalized world. In particular, the course will focus on cases in which the international community has developed effective diplomacy to avoid war and respond to international crises, and cases in which foreign countries have failed to do so. The course will focus on how to maximize the effectiveness of international negotiations, how to combine diplomacy and the use of force, and how international institutions such as the United Nations can function effectively to avert human rights abuses and war.

Knowing the realities of human relations, organization, and the environment in international transactions in the age of globalization

In the age of globalization, businessmen need to know about human relations, organization, and the environment in international transactions. The primary goal of this course is to guide students on the path to doing business effectively in the age of globalization, whether or not they actually work for an international company. This course will help students become educated citizens and understand government policies and key issues affecting globalization. Upon completion of the course, students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the realities of international business.