University of Wisconsin–Madison
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UW Retail Trends in Japan

A collage of three images showing storefronts in Japan: Dior, Levi's Tailor Shop, and Louis Vuitton.

Japan, Tokyo

Limited Capacity Program: This program can accept a limited number of students each term. In the past we have received more qualified applications than available spotsReview of applicants is based on these criteria. You may only have one application per term, however, please have an alternate program in mind in the event that you are not accepted to this program.

The UW Retail Trends in Japan program is a signature program organized and led by Professor Murray in Consumer Sciences and supported through CIEE. You will work closely with IAP, the onsite provider CIEE, and Professor Murray.

Japan is known for many things -- spectacular food, beautiful temples, high speed trains, and being one of the most fashion forward countries in the world. From traditional kimonos to modern street wear, Japanese fashion is cutting edge and diverse. Discover fashion trends on this program, which provides hands on experience with tracking and forecasting of product and consumer trends based on product lifecycle trends, fashion theories, socioeconomic and cultural factors, lifestyles, psychographic and demographic trends in the marketplace. Learn and study trend theory then apply your knowledge and skills in tracking trends early on the trend curve while in Japan. You will then translate your predictions of future trends for a domestic retailer or brand. Included in the program is an overnight trip to Hiroshima with a potential factory tour.

Learning Objectives

We have overall Goals and Expectations for Study Abroad Participants, covering the personal, academic and professional aspects of study abroad. Additionally on this program, you can:

  • Describe how Japan’s culture influences consumer behavior and the international marketing environment

  • Apply fashion theories, product lifecycle theories to track trends impacting consumerism of products and services

  • Identify and use market sources for trend information

  • Demonstrate strategies for identifying & forecasting trends, the globalization of trends, and the analysis and incorporation of trend data into product design and development

  • Recognize, track and apply demographic, lifestyle, and psychographic factors that affect consumerism

  • Describe the aspects necessary for efficient and quality production of products

  • Demonstrate this above knowledge in a final research project exhibiting why current trends exist and forecast future consumer trends

Diversity & Inclusion

We are committed to providing quality study abroad and domestic study away programs for every UW-Madison student. We work strategically to identify, address, and remove barriers that may prevent participation and to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for students. Our staff actively engages with students, faculty, and staff from diverse backgrounds and prioritizes the continuous development of our knowledge and cultural competence. We also recognize the importance of increasing access to study abroad for historically underrepresented student populations. We are committed to diversity and inclusion so that every student can engage with and understand their identity through a new lens and continue to develop and make progress on their personal, professional, and academic goals.

Sustainability

We recognize that the future of study abroad, domestic study away, and international internship programming requires a Commitment to Sustainability. We are devoted to examining, developing, and improving sustainability in all our endeavors, aligning with campus priorities and following through with UW-Madison's climate action and Resilience Commitment. Join our efforts and learn more about how to study abroad sustainably.

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Eligibility

  • Preference is given to students with a declared Consumer Behavior and Marketplace Studies major.
  • Program is open to graduate students pursuing a MS in Human Ecology with a focus in Consumer Science.
  • 2.0 cumulative GPA
  • Pre-requisite required: CNSR SCI 257
  • Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, Senior, Graduate Student
  • Open to UW-Madison degree-seeking students only
  • Good academic and disciplinary standing
  • At the time of application and the semester prior to participation, UW-Madison students must be currently enrolled. Transfer Students to UW-Madison need to be currently enrolled at their home institution

Advising Location

Program Structure

UW Signature

Subjects

Consumer Behavior, Marketplace Studies

Classroom Language

English

Housing

Hotels, Guesthouse

Program Duration

Summer (mid-May to late May)

Application Deadline(s)

Summer 2026 1/2/2026 Cost Details

Future durations will be posted at a later date.

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Students will spend several days leading up to departure in online coursework to prepare for the experience abroad. This may include discussions, quizzes, and projects.

Tentative dates:
Online dates: May 8-15, 2026
Onsite dates: May 17-29, 2026

Students will choose to receive 3 credits in either Consumer Science 562, 567 or 501 (Prerequisite: CNSR SCI 257 Introduction to Retailing).

While not required, students are strongly encouraged to take one of the following prior to the program to develop cultural context and appreciation: History 104 Introduction to Japan, History 255 Introduction to East Asia, History 454 Samurai History and Image, History 201 Japan after 1945.

Course Equivalents

Use the links below to see a list of courses that past students have taken on this program and the UW equivalents. Note: This list only includes pre-approved courses for your program and may not be an exhaustive list of courses, departments or equivalents. Courses may not be available the semester you are abroad. You will receive instructions on the course equivalent process after acceptance. View Course Equivalents

Program Leader

Murray

Teaching Professor, Consumer Science