Pepperdine University has announced plans to launch its newest academic program in
Kyoto, Japan, for the 2026–27 academic year. This marks a bold step forward in its
mission to develop globally minded leaders through immersive, purpose-driven education.
Students in Seaver College’s Japan Perspectives program
Currently, Seaver College’s Japan Perspectives program offers students a four-week summer program split between Kyoto and Tokyo that integrates
travel, classroom learning, curated excursions, and purposeful social engagement.
Based on its success, Pepperdine will expand to a semester-based residential program
for one year, with the potential to grow into a full academic-year opportunity for
Seaver College students in subsequent years.
“This exciting new opportunity in Japan reflects the University’s enduring commitment
to academic excellence, Christian values, and equipping students to lead lives of
purposeful leadership around the globe,” says president Jim Gash (JD ’93). “Pepperdine’s
international programs are not just opportunities for study. They are gateways to
cultural understanding, collaboration, and lifelong connections. I look forward to
the transformative experiences that lie ahead for our students in Kyoto and the ways
they will carry those lessons into communities around the world.”
Set to welcome its first cohort of students in fall 2026, the Kyoto program joins
the University’s network of international sites as part of Pepperdine’s International Programs, which is currently ranked #11 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report and #1 among doctoral universities by Open Doors for its 95 percent undergraduate study abroad participation rate.
Students at the Otowa Waterfall at Kiyomizu Temple in Kyoto, Japan
“In Kyoto our students will experience a living classroom and be immersed in the traditions,
innovations, and beauty of Japan while engaging with world-class faculty and global
peers,” says provost Jay Brewster. “These encounters will inspire perspectives that
can only come from stepping beyond one’s own borders and shape students’ personal,
professional, and spiritual journeys for years to come.”
The Kyoto program will offer students a uniquely immersive academic experience in
one of the world’s most historic and culturally rich cities. The program plans to
host 30 semester-only students in fall 2026, spring 2027, and summer 2027 under the
leadership of a full-time Pepperdine program director, who will oversee the program
from Japan and work with University partners to ensure that the program meets Pepperdine’s
standards and mission. A faculty-in-residence will also be appointed to support academic
continuity prior to the arrival of the students. The University is working with a
trusted international education partner to secure high-quality residential and classroom
facilities, which will be announced in late fall 2025.
Following this trial period, the University will consider the development of a long-term
campus-based program in Kyoto.
“The Kyoto program represents a remarkable addition to Pepperdine’s tradition of transformative
global learning,” says Ron Cox (MDiv ’96), dean of International Programs. “Our students
will be inspired by centuries of culture and innovation, challenged to see the world
through new perspectives, and empowered to carry those lessons into lives of purpose
and leadership.”
The program’s curriculum will align with Seaver College’s core academic requirements,
with an emphasis on humanities, religion, social science, and language. All courses
will be approved by Seaver College’s academic divisions and taught by expert faculty
to maintain the rigorous academic standards for which the University is known. As
with all Pepperdine international programs, Kyoto will offer students opportunities
for co-curricular learning, cultural engagement, and community-based service under
the guidance of a Pepperdine-led team.
More information about Pepperdine’s Kyoto academic program, including course offerings
and housing details, will be available in fall 2025.
Photo Credit
Feature image: courtesy of photographer Dane Malzahn
Inset images: courtesy of Charlie Engelmann
AloJapan.com