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Soka University of America is one of the premier additions to higher learning institutions across within the United States. This private, four-year college offers students a challenging liberal arts education with vital life preparing professional and vocational programs. Foreign Language Communications is also a highly popular program that students pursue each year, the majority of which continue on to study abroad in the foreign country of their choice. Located in the beautiful setting of Aliso Viejo California, students can take advantage of the inspiring sunny weather and friendly support of both the local residents and their peers. Since the Soka University of America campus is located within one mile of the beach, many student activities and community service fundraisers are held on the boardwalk and local vendors – a unique addition to the college experience.
The small student-faculty classroom ratio (9:1) at Soka University of America offers students an advantage over their professional competition, receiving direct attention from teachers in a smaller class size provides a more personal learning style that has proven effective in job placement. Providing students with more creative opportunities that stimulate intellectual growth and curiosity is important at the College. For this reason, all students are given the opportunity to study abroad for one semester during their undergraduate program. As this opportunity is included in tuition, students can incorporate their journey into their schedule at their own leisure, optimizing their college experience with both coursework and hands on learning.
School History
Soka University of America is one of the various educational facilities that make up Soka Gakkai International, an organization operated under the presidency of Daisaku Ikeda, a Japanese Educator and founder of Soka University of America. Ikeda has dedicated himself to providing quality education to students across the globe, establishing the University as modeled by Soka University in Japan. The Soka schools consist of facilities educating kindergarten and grade school students, as well as high school and college programs. Founded on the core values of student development and ability to create the value in their goals – Soka University of America was developed to help American students engage in a vigorous and challenging curriculum, as well as offer international students an opportunity to obtain such an education in the States.
Soka University of America is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, more commonly referred to as the WASC.
The development of the Soka education was inspired and structured by a skilled Japanese educator and known Buddhist leader, Tsunesaburo Makiquchi. His legacy and strength was most famously acknowledged by his imprisonment during WWII for his opposition to the war based on religious freedom. His death while incarcerated in 1944, created a stronger focus on developing educational facilities to honor his legacy and teachings to all students. His founding organization and loyal followers have since developed one of the largest Buddhist organizations in the world, continuously growing and developing educational, cultural and social opportunities for students and young adults.
Campus Life
Campus life for each student is intended to be well-rounded, secure and versatile – helping the student body adjust effectively to their transition into maturity and independency. A New Student Orientation is traditional held each year to welcome incoming students to the campus family, as well as introduce them to the various amenities and opportunities offered on campus. The Soka University of America community encourages and embraces multicultural diversity and acceptance – showcasing their dedication to unity and community service through each student operated club and organization. With over 40 special interests groups and organization available on campus, students will not have a problem finding a place to call home. The Office of Student Activities is available to assist students find the opportunities that best suit their individual needs, as well as connect them to the resources needed to create their own.
Maintaining the close-knit community that truly represents the Soka culture is showcased in daily campus life and residential living facilities. Each of the residence halls resembles an apartment-like atmosphere that offers a house sharing experience rather than the traditional dorm room environment. This enables students to experience the true essence of independence with the support of their peers. Students enjoy living amongst each other as well as supporting each other in extracurricular activities and interests as well, such as the Soka athletic teams. Faculty and staff members are dedicated to providing students with a culturally enriching atmosphere that stimulates open-minded and free thinking.
Due to the ideal location of the campus, Soka students often gather together to participate in the Outdoor Adventure Series, a program that sponsor traditional outings and activities for students, friends and families to enjoy. Many students also take advantage of the intramural and recreation activities offered at the health and Fitness Center throughout the year. Student Services is available throughout each semester to assist students in the various aspects of college life, ensuring an easy transition.
Financial Aid
Soka University of America provides a wide variety of financial aid funding options for the various types of students that attend. International Student Services are available that can help accommodate students with funding towards travel expenses, as well as guidance throughout the school year. Undergraduate students are eligible for a variety of merit-based scholarships and awards that can help alleviate the financial stress on students. Soka University also offers assistance to graduate students as they enter into a crucial time period in their education.
There are several offices available at Soka University of America that can help assist students in affairs relating to financial aid. Students are encouraged to visit the Registrar Office to create their semester schedules and explore their funding options. Student recruiters are available to offer peer mentorship during the application and financial aid process for incoming students. The Office of Financial Aid and International Student Services are also available to assist students with their individual funding options.
