Interior Design – DMU Global

Hosei University, Tokyo, Japan

Hosei University is one of Japan’s leading private universities, located in the heart of Tokyo, a global city that blends cutting-edge modernity with deep cultural heritage. Founded in 1880, Hosei combines a long academic tradition with an international outlook, welcoming students from around the world. Exchange students benefit from studying at a well-connected urban campus, with access to extensive academic resources, student support, and opportunities to experience life in one of the world’s most exciting and dynamic cities.

Tokyo itself offers endless opportunities for exploration — from museums, temples, and traditional districts to modern cafés, shopping, and nightlife. An exchange at Hosei University offers both academic growth and an immersive experience of Japanese culture, innovation, and city life.

Programmes of study

Exchange students will be required to follow a full programme of study for the academic year based at Hosei University.

The Exchange Students from Overseas Program (ESOP) is open to all disciplines and is designed for students particularly interested in Japanese cultural studies.
Specific modules of study are available to Business Management, Marketing, Accounting, and Finance students through the Global Business Programme (GBP).
Students in International Business, Business Management, Marketing, Economics, Fine Art, Media and Communication, Journalism, Film Studies, Politics and International Relations, English Language and Literature, History, Education Studies, and Psychology can explore the Global Interdisciplinary Studies (GIS) programme.

Please visit the Hosei University website via the button below to view the programmes and modules available.

View programmes of study

Need more information? Visit Hosei University’s Exchange Students page.
Any questions? Contact the Incoming ESOP Team for guidance and assistance.

Learn more about campus activities and events

At Hosei University, exchange students are encouraged to actively engage in a variety of campus activities and events that foster cultural exchange and community involvement. The Global Education Center organizes regular events such as the Welcome Party and Farewell Party, providing opportunities to connect with fellow international and Japanese students.

Additionally, the HUBs (Hosei University Buddy System) offers a platform for exchange students to collaborate with local students, assisting with daily life and participating in various social events.

For those interested in media and public relations, the HOSEI Promotion Project allows students to work alongside Japanese peers to promote the university and Japan in English through social media, content creation, and event reporting.

These activities are designed to enhance the student experience, provide a deeper understanding of Japanese culture, and foster lasting international friendships.

Travel & accommodation

Travel – Hosei University’s campuses are located in central Tokyo, with the Ichigaya campus in Chiyoda-ku and the Koganei campus in western Tokyo. The city is well-connected by trains and buses, making commuting to campus easy. The nearest international airports are Narita International Airport (NRT) and Haneda Airport (HND). From either airport, students can reach central Tokyo by train or bus.
Accommodation – Exchange students are eligible to apply for university managed dormitories. Additional information about housing options and application procedures is available here.

Visas & insurance

Visas – To take part in this exchange you are responsible for ensuring that you meet Japanese entry requirements.
Insurance – DMU insurance is not sufficient for studying on exchange in Japan. It is mandatory for exchange students to purchase National Health Insurance (Kokumin Kenko Hoken) after arrival, according to the Japanese Government Policy for foreigners who will stay over 90 days. Further information about insurance can be found here.

Ball State University, Muncie, Indiana, USA

Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana, is a dynamic university offering a wide range of programs, including business, architecture, the arts, and emerging disciplines. With modern facilities, a diverse faculty, and opportunities for research, creative projects, and community engagement, students gain both academic and practical experience in a supportive environment.

Muncie combines Midwestern charm with cultural and recreational opportunities. Students can explore the nationally recognised Minnetrista Museum and Gardens, attend performances at the Muncie Civic Theatre, or enjoy local parks and dining. With an active campus, strong academic reputation, and close proximity to Indianapolis, an exchange at Ball State provides a rewarding study experience and an authentic insight into life in a welcoming American university community.

Programmes of study

Exchange students will be required to follow a full programme of study for the academic year based at Ball State University.

Please visit the Ball State University website via the button below to view the programmes and modules available.

View programmes of study

Need more information? Visit Ball State University Inbound Exchange Students page.
Any questions? Contact the Study Abroad Team for guidance and assistance.

Learn more about campus activities and events

Students going on exchange to Ball State University can immerse themselves in a lively and welcoming campus community that offers a wide range of opportunities to get involved, stay active, and experience American university life.

Ball State University offers a vibrant and engaging student experience with more than 400 student organisations across academic, cultural, creative, and service interests. Through the Office of Student Life, students can get involved in clubs, leadership programmes, and campus events listed on the “Be Connected” platform. Each year, the university hosts its Weeks of Welcome , including events such as the Activity Fair and “Rock the Halls,” designed to help new students connect and settle into campus life.

Students in academic disciplines can also join subject-specific societies – from the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS) to theatre groups like Alpha Psi Omega and Busted Space. The Multicultural Center also supports organisations that celebrate diversity and promote inclusion across campus.

The university’s Recreation Services offer extensive opportunities for fitness, sport, and outdoor adventure. Facilities include the Student Recreation and Wellness Center (SRWC) with fitness studios, a climbing wall, pools, and over 400,000 square feet of indoor recreation space, plus more than 20 acres of outdoor fields.

Students can take part in intramural sports such as basketball, volleyball, and football, or join one of over 25 sport clubs, which range from competitive teams to recreational and instructional groups. For those who enjoy the outdoors, the Outdoor Pursuits Rental Centre provides equipment hire and organises trips and clinics for activities like hiking, camping, and skiing.

Ball State is also home to the Cardinals, who compete in NCAA Division I intercollegiate athletics.

Travel & accommodation

Travel – Ball State is in Muncie, Indiana, which is in the heart of the Midwest, USA. The campus is 70 miles northeast of Indianapolis, and the closest airport is Indianapolis International Airport (IND). Shuttle service is available from IND to Ball State campus for arrival and departure. Other airports in the region (without shuttle service to campus) include Fort Wayne (FWA), Cincinnati (CVG), Dayton (DAY), and Chicago O’Hare (ORD).
Accommodation – You will need to apply to live in housing on-campus as an exchange student. Ball State offers on-campus housing in one of their eleven residence halls. Most rooms are doubles with air-conditioning. Bathrooms are private, semi-private, or community-style. Meal plans are required for students living in residence halls. Visit bsu.edu/housing for additional information.

Visas & insurance

Visas – To take part in this exchange you are responsible for ensuring that you meet US immigration requirements.
Insurance – DMU insurance is not sufficient for studying on exchange in the United States, and students are required to purchase emergency medical insurance while attending BSU.

ISEP – Study on Exchange in the USA

De Montfort University is a member institution of the International Student Exchange Programme (ISEP) – a not for profit organisation that brings together a consortium of universities around the world, to make studying abroad more accessible to students.

Interested in studying abroad in the USA through ISEP?

Join one of our briefing sessions to find out how the programme works. Upcoming sessions:
Wednesday 5 November, 12pm-12:45pm, The Yard 1.05
Thursday 20 November, 12:15pm-12:45pm, The Yard 1.02

Is ISEP right for me?

ISEP provides an alternative route to studying in the USA, alongside DMU’s direct partner universities. While all students are welcome to apply, ISEP may be particularly appealing if:

You are especially keen to study in the United States and would like access to a wide range of universities through a single application.
You would value the additional support provided by ISEP, including arranged accommodation, meal plans, and visa sponsorship.
You are interested in studying at a wide range of US institutions, offering a broad range of locations and courses.

This makes ISEP a good option for students who want reassurance around accommodation and visa processes, and who are motivated to explore study opportunities across the United States.

Where can I study in the US via ISEP?

Being a member of ISEP allows DMU students to study at over 100 universities in the US.
A diverse range of destinations and types of institutions is available, and the full list of exchange destinations can be accessed via the button below.

Search for institutions

Finding programmes/modules

To explore what you can study at each institution:

Use the ISEP Program Finder (link via the button above) to search by Field of Study.
Check the institution’s module directory or course catalogue, focusing on options marked for visiting or exchange students.
Contact the ISEP Student Services Officer listed on each university’s page for more detailed advice about modules and course availability.
If unsure, seek guidance from your DMU faculty and the DMU Global team to make sure your choices fit with your degree requirements.

What does the application process look like?

Applying for an ISEP placement is a two stage process:

Apply to DMU Global
- Applications for the 2026–27 academic year open on Monday 27 October 2025 and close on Monday 12 January 2026.
- Applications are submitted via DMU Global as advised here.
Apply to ISEP
- If your DMU Global application is successful, you will then submit an application directly to ISEP by Sunday 1 March 2026.
- At this stage, you can select up to 10 preferred universities, and ISEP will attempt to place you at one of your top four choices.

DMU Global and ISEP will run information sessions to guide you through the process and provide tailored support at each stage.

Fees and support

ISEP operates on a model where you pay DMU housing and meal costs. In return, you are provided with pre-arranged accommodation and a meal plan at your host university, making it broadly comparable to continuing your studies at DMU.

There are a number of fixed fees that will be payable to DMU/ISEP as part of your year abroad. For the 2025-26 academic year, these fees included:

ISEP Exchange Application Fee: $100 (approx. £76)
ISEP Exchange Placement Fee: $450 (approx. £345)
Accommodation: £6,095
Meal plan: £2,808

Please note: Fees are subject to change and will be updated for the 2026–27 academic year.

All participants will be eligible to receive financial support from the Turing Scheme, to help make the year abroad more affordable. You can find further details of fees and funding that is available here.

If you have any questions regarding ISEP, please get in touch with us.

Mount Royal University – Calgary, Canada

Mount Royal University (MRU) was founded in 1910 following a charter by the Alberta provincial government, and today has around 25,000 students enrolled on full and part-time courses at the university. Situated in Calgary, the largest city in Alberta (1.2 million population) students at MRU benefit from it being the sunniest major city in Canada, whilst also being perfect for snow sports with on average, 128cm of snow per year.

Programmes of study

Exchange students will be required to follow a full programme of study for the academic year based at MRU.

Please visit the MRU website via the button below to view the programmes and modules available.

View programmes of study

Need more information? Visit MRU Inbound Opportunities page.
Any questions? Contact the International Education Team for guidance and assistance.

DMU student stories

Kitty’s Canadian exchange in Calgary

Kitty Hollet is a third-year student at DMU currently studying Criminal Justice. She shared her reflections at the mid-way point of year studying at Mount Royal University in Alberta, Canada. Travelling to Canada To my surprise, I found the travel aspect of my year abroad the most difficult part of the process. Luckily, to study…

Learn more about campus activities and events

Exchange students have full access to MRU Recreation, and there is a large variety of activities available to help you keep active and healthy during your exchange. To access MRU Recreation you will need your MRU Campus Card (ID card) which you will get once your arrive.

You can also watch videos of exchange students that went to MRU to see what they learnt from their time spent in Canada.

Travel & accommodation

Travel – the nearest major airport to Mount Royal University is Calgary airport. It is recommended to take a taxi to your accommodation, which should cost approximately $55-60.
Accommodation – you will need to apply to live in the Mount Royal University student halls of residence. For more information check out the MRU Residence webpage.

Visas & insurance

Visas – To take part in this exchange you are responsible for ensuring that you meet Canadian immigration requirements.
Insurance – DMU insurance is not sufficient for studying on exchange in Canada, and students are required to purchase medical insurance while attending Mount Royal University.

Kwansei Gakuin University – Nishinomiya, Japan

Kwansei Gakuin University (KGU) is an independent institution for higher education, offering Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD degrees in over 35 different disciplines to a student body of approximately 24,700. Founded in 1889, the university maintains academic standards that rank among the highest of all Japanese universities and colleges. KGU places a large emphasis on producing ‘global citizens’, and in 2014 was selected by the Japanese government as one of 37 out of a total of 800 universities nationwide to receive funding under the Top Global University Project.

Programmes of study

Exchange students will be required to follow a full programme of study for the academic year based at Kwansei Gakuin University.

KGU offers ‘The Contemporary Japan Program’ which is specially designed for incoming exchange students to Kwansei Gakuin University.

Exchange students are offered a choice between two study tracks that will define the main focus of their time at KGU, the “Japanese Language Track” and the “Modern Japan Track”. Exchange students are also able to select elective courses to learn more about “Contemporary Japan” from a variety of aspects such as language, culture, society, economy, and politics.

Please note that eligible DMU students from all Faculties can choose to study at KGU (subject to Programme Leader approval).

Please visit the KGU website via the button below to view the Contemporary Japan Programme.

View programmes of study

Need more information? Visit KGU Exchange Programme page.
Any questions? Contact the Incoming Exchange Team for guidance and assistance.

Learn more about campus activities and events

At KGU, A mandatory orientation of approximately one week will be held at the beginning of each semester, introducing new students to life in Japan and information on KGU. In addition, Acting as language partners for the JLT exchange student’s first semester, KGU student volunteers will assist exchange students in practicing Japanese conversation. Exchange students who are enrolled in the Japanese Language Track will have a Nihongo Partner.

On-campus there is also the GS Network is an official student group endorsed by CIEC, supporting exchange students during their stay in Japan. They also plan cultural exchange activities for both exchange students and KGU students over the course of the year.

More broadly a range of extra-curricular opportunities are offered and Exchange students are encouraged to join KGU student groups to enrich their study experience in Japan. There are over 150 cultural and sports clubs and “circles” on campus. A circle is a group of students who share a common interest in an activity and gather periodically to explore this interest together. Clubs tend to require more commitment than circles do, and are often the equivalent to university level team sports. Exchange students should be aware that they may not be able to join certain clubs/circles due to the length of their exchange.

Travel & accommodation

Travel – the nearest major airport to KGU is Kansai International Airport.
Accommodation – Students can apply to live in the on-campus dorm which may be shared or private. Availability is not guaranteed for students applying in 22-23. There is also the option to apply for a homestay with a Japanese family. Dorm rooms cost between £270-380 per month (excluding meals and utilities).

Visas & insurance

Visas – To take part in this exchange you are responsible for ensuring that you meet Japanese entry requirements.
Insurance – DMU insurance is not sufficient for studying on exchange in Canada, and students are required to purchase medical insurance while attending Kwansei Gakuin University.

Malmö University – Malmö, Sweden

Founded in 1998, Malmö University has had a keen focus on its social commitment to both the local community and student life. It has informed the university’s approach to education through close collaboration with the city and surrounding community; providing an excellent student exchange experience. The university is committed to being an internationally recognised institution, offering over 30 degrees in English with just over 24,000 students enrolled.

Ranked the 14^th best university in Sweden and coming in the top 500 universities in Europe, the university offers exchange students a world class education in the heart of a city with a rich and diverse background. Sweden is also recognised as the 5^th highest ranking country for education and research quality world-wide.

Programmes of study

DMU’s exchange agreement with Malmö University allows students enrolled on the following programmes to study abroad:

Business and Law – Law (students will be required to pick some modules from other programmes)
Health and Life Sciences – Education Studies
Technology, Arts and Culture – Politics and International Relations, History, Politics and International Relations, Interior Design, Product Design, Computer Science

Modules will be available in English and further information about the study options can be found here (Exchange students may not be eligible for all courses listed. You will receive a full list upon your successful application).

You are also highly encouraged to participate in the following optional courses:

Introduction programme: Designed to help international students integrate with the student life at Malmö and explore what the city has to offer.
Swedish language course: An introduction to the Swedish language, culture and society.

Learn more about campus activities and events

On top of your studies, Malmö has a range of activities for students to get involved in during their free time. Awarded student city of the year 2021/22, the picturesque city of Malmö provides activities for everyone: Why not take a stroll through one of the city’s parks? Take a dip in the ocean? Attend a concert? Explore the cultural background of the city or hop on a 40-minute train to Copenhagen. Malmö will never leave you stuck for something to do, all in addition to the universities social events provided through the SU.

Travel & accommodation

Travel – While Malmö has its own airport, exchange students are advised to travel to Malmö University via Copenhagen Airport (CPH), a mere 20-minute train from Malmö.
Accommodation – There is a range of accommodation on offer for exchange students. You can see a full list here.

Visas & insurance

Visas – To take part in this exchange you are responsible for ensuring that you meet Swedish immigration requirements.
Insurance – All students are recommended to purchase travel insurance for the duration of their time in Europe to cover personal possessions and healthcare. UK and EU nationals can apply for a UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) which is time-limited to the length of the exchange period.

HFG Schwäbisch Gmünd – Baden-Württemberg, Germany

Hochschule Fuer Gestaltung Schwäbisch Gmünd is a university of design in the German state of Baden-Württemberg. Schwäbisch Gmünd is a relatively small city, but benefits from a really strong strong student community. The Financial Times Germany attributed Schwäbisch Gmünd as ”Germany’s Secret Design Capital“ since there are numerous design agencies, advertising and multimedia companies, architects and creative service providers

Schwäbisch Gmünd with its 60.000 inhabitants is located close to Stuttgart and is surrounded by forests, meadows, and farmland. Street cafés, wine bars, markets, variety of shops, and rich and lively cultural scene give the town its special flair.

Programmes of study

DMU’s exchange agreement with HFG Schwäbisch Gmünd allows students enrolled on the following programmes to study abroad:

Technology, Arts and Culture – Graphic Design, Interior Design and Product Design

Spending a year on exchange will expose you to new design approaches, themes, different teaching, and learning methods by following modules related to the Communication Design, Interaction Design and Product Design. You are allowed to mix courses taught in English from those three programs and the new program, Internet of Things. You don’t have to be able to speak any German, and throughout the year you can enrol on a free, weekly German language course.

Exchange students will be required to follow a full programme of study for the academic year.

Learn more about campus activities and events

Hochschule Fuer Gestaltung Schwäbisch Gmünd organises an International Seminar Week for international students to socialise and get to know one another. MOST KIND (Mentoring OSTwürttemberg – Kooperative Integration Nicht-Deutscher) gives international students a first virtual contact point in their new study and living environment. Additionally incoming international students are able to take advantage of language courses, local excursions and extra-curricula learning opportunities focused on the local region and its history.

The Buddies programme promotes contact between local students and exchange students. Buddies also help you with general enquiries that incoming student may have.

Travel & accommodation

Travel – the nearest major airport is Stuttgart Airport. It is recommended you take a train to Schwäbisch Gmünd which should take approximately 1.5 hours.
Accommodation – the University does not offer student accommodation. The international coordinator will send you flat offers two to three months before the start of your exchange, and your buddy will help you find a place to live. The average monthly rent amounts to around £250-300 per month. Some options being can be found on WG-gesucht.

Visas & insurance

Visas – To take part in this exchange you are responsible for ensuring that you meet German immigration requirements.
Insurance – All students are recommended to purchase travel insurance for the duration of their time in Europe to cover personal possessions and healthcare. UK and EU nationals can apply for a UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) which is time-limited to the length of the exchange period.

Metropolia University of Applied Sciences – Helsinki, Finland

Metropolia University of Applied Sciences is Finland’s largest university of applied sciences educating future professionals in fields such as Business, Culture and Technology. There are approximately 16,000 students enrolled on courses, with the institution’s mission being to create insight, expertise and well-being.

A globally minded institution, Metropolia University educates their students and prepare them for an international world and a global job sector. Each year, Metropolia welcomes about 320 exchange students from partner universities all over the world, supporting them in having an impactful experience while studying for an academic year in Helsinki!

Programmes of study

DMU’s exchange agreement with Metropolia University of Applied Sciences allows students enrolled on the following programmes to study abroad:

Technology, Arts and Culture – Textile Design, Fashion Textile Design, Fashion Design, Product Design, and Interior Design
Business & Law – all Business programmes

Modules will be available in English and further information about the study options can be found here. Exchange students will be required to follow a full programme of study for the academic year based at Metropolia University of Applied Sciences.

Learn more about campus activities and events

The Students Union, METKA, arranges a range of activities supporting the student experience and well being. METKA arranged activities include excursions, day trips, student groups and guest lectures. Furthermore, students can try out more than 30 different sports, as well as fitness classes that include kick boxing, Latin dance and yoga.

An overview of the types of activities international students can participate in can be found here.

Travel & accommodation

Travel – the nearest major airport to Metropolia University of Applied Sciences is Helsinki Airport. It is recommended to take a taxi or public transportation to your accommodation.
Accommodation – Metropolia University of Applied Sciences assists exchange students in finding accommodation in Helsinki. For more information check out Metropolia University of Applied Sciences Accommodation .

Visas & insurance

Visas – To take part in this exchange you are responsible for ensuring that meet Finnish immigration requirements.
Insurance – All students are recommended to purchase travel insurance for the duration of their time in Europe to cover personal possessions and healthcare. UK and EU nationals can apply for a UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) which is time-limited to the length of the exchange period.

Weber State University – Ogden, Utah, USA

Founded in 1889, Weber State University is an exceptional teaching university providing degrees in business, education, health professions, liberal arts, technology, and sciences to meet the needs of the region. The university offers more than 250 undergraduate certificate and degree programs, serving more than 26,000 students, drawn predominately from Utah but also including representatives from all 50 states and 47 foreign countries.

WSU takes pride in its student-centered environment, meeting the needs of both traditional and non-traditional students. A multi-campus institution, WSU’s main Ogden campus is located 35 miles north of Salt Lake City.

Programmes of study

Exchange students will be required to follow a full programme of study for the academic year based at the Weber State University.

Please visit the Weber State University website via the button below to view the programmes and modules available.

View programmes of study

Need more information? Visit Weber State’s Global Engagement page.
Any questions? Contact the International Student and Scholar Center for guidance and assistance.

DMU student stories

Georgia’s unforgettable year studying in the USA

Georgia Fidler a third year Interior Design student, spent a year studying at Weber State University in Ogden, Utah. Below she shares her experience of living, studying and travelling in the United States. How did you find out about studying abroad and what made you want to do it? Since my first open day at the university, DMU Global,…

Learn more about campus activities and events

From athletics to the arts to countless other ways to spend your leisure time, Weber State University offers many activities, events, and programs for your enjoyment on campus throughout the year. Students have access to the Stromberg Complex and Weber State University’s popular outdoor program which includes exciting outdoor activities such as camping, rock climbing, and canoeing. Click here to see a highlight of what you could get up to!

Weber State University is part of the NCAA I which is the highest level of intercollegiate athletics sanctioned by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) in the United States.

Weber State University allows students to enjoy city life as it is located in the largest metropolitan region in the area. However, there is also a rich offer of ski slopes, mountain trails and lots more nearby. Thus, offering a nice balance of nature and urbanity. Weber State University encourage freedom of expression and value diversity. Through academic programs, research, artistic expression, public service and community-based learning, the university serves as an educational, cultural and economic leader for the region. They make sure that students’ feel welcome at Weber State University.

Travel & accommodation

Travel – the nearest major airport to WSU is Salt Lake City International Airport. For more information, check out the Weber State University webpage.
Accommodation – you will need to apply to live in the WSU student halls of residence. For more information check Weber State University Housing webpage.

Visas & insurance

Visas – To take part in this exchange you are responsible for ensuring that you meet US immigration requirements.
Insurance – DMU insurance is not sufficient for studying on exchange in the United States, and students are required to purchase health insurance while attending Weber State University.