Japanese Specialization in the MIBS Program: Business Japanese and Internship Training.

The University of South Carolina added the Japanese specialization to its Master of International Business Studies (MIBS) program in 1982. The small group of students in the 3-year specialization are chosen competitively from a large applicant pool. While no Japanese language knowledge is required for entry to the program, many students have some experience with the language. By program completion, students have spent at least 3 years in intensive Japanese language study, including 1.5 years in Japan. The language program's five phases include: (1) an 8-week intensive summer training course; (2) two semesters of intensive international business courses and Japanese business language studies; (3) a second 8-week intensive summer program; (4) two semesters of study at a Japanese university; and (5) use and continued learning of business Japanese through a 6-to-7-month internship. Emphasis is on development of oral skills. The program is rigorous and demanding. The structure and assignments of the overseas internship vary according to the employer's needs, but tend to offer more generalized training than American internships. Companies evaluate the students at the end of the internships. The program has been very successful in establishing good relationships with companies and in placing graduates. (MSE)