Area studies typically examine the development of a particular population or region. While other, similar interdisciplinary studies, such as gender, disability, and ethnic, may have some part in course discussions, these are not considered area studies.

Japan has one of the highly integrated higher education systems in Asia. Japans approach to science and technology is highly rated thus their education levels very structured from childhood to primary through secondary to tertiary levels. With 126 million people living in Japan it has a cultural rich environment. Greater Tokyo area is the largest metropolitan area in the world, with over 30 million residents.

A certificate is a short scholastic program that helps provide students with the education and training they need to qualify for promotions at work or to supplement their existing academic records. These programs are usually completed in less than a year.