Anaheim University and Bunkyo Gakuin University Strengthen Cooperation Beginning with TESOL Programs

Bunkyo Gakuin University Chancellor Masakazu Shimada with Anaheim University Chancellor Peter Langenberg

Bunkyo Gakuin University Chairman Masakazu Shimada with Anaheim University Chancellor Peter Langenberg

Anaheim University and Bunkyo Gakuin University (BGU) in Tokyo, Japan, are working to expand educational cooperation, beginning with initiatives in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) and Teaching English to Young Learners (TEYL).

As part of these efforts, representatives of the two universities gathered in Tokyo on October 9, 2026, to discuss opportunities for collaboration and strengthen ties between the institutions.

The discussions focused on developing educational opportunities that combine Anaheim University’s expertise in online TESOL education with Bunkyo Gakuin University’s commitment to international education and English language teaching.

Anaheim University has a long history of providing online graduate degree and certificate programs in TESOL, serving educators from Japan and around the world. Through its internationally recognized faculty and flexible online learning model, the university provides professional development opportunities for English language teachers seeking to enhance their teaching knowledge and skills.

Bunkyo Gakuin University, a private university in Tokyo with a history dating back over 100 years, offers undergraduate and graduate education across several disciplines and emphasizes international exchange, practical learning, and the development of globally minded graduates.

The cooperative initiatives under discussion are expected to begin with opportunities for Bunkyo Gakuin University students and educators to participate in Anaheim University’s TESOL and TEYL certificate programs. These programs are designed to provide participants with practical knowledge of English language teaching methodologies, curriculum development, and instructional approaches for learners of different ages and proficiency levels.

Beyond TESOL and TEYL, the universities are exploring opportunities to broaden their cooperation in ways that support international education in other fields, professional development, and academic exchange.

The October 10 gathering brought together senior representatives of both institutions, including Bunkyo Gakuin University Chancellor Masakazu Shimada and President Tsutomu Fukui, along with Anaheim University Chancellor Peter Langenberg, to discuss opportunities for educational cooperation and further strengthen the relationship between the two universities.

 

The collaboration reflects Anaheim University’s continuing commitment to building relationships with educational institutions in Japan and expanding access to internationally focused higher education.

By combining the strengths and resources of both institutions, Anaheim University and Bunkyo Gakuin University aim to create new opportunities for students and educators while strengthening educational connections between Japan and the United States.

Bunkyo Gakuin University Chairman Masakazu Shimada with a statue of his grandmother / BGU founder Ishiko Shimada
Bunkyo Gakuin University Chairman Masakazu Shimada with a statue of his grandmother / BGU founder Ishiko Shimada