History

The International Institute of American Studies was established in 1958, growing out of Kyoto American Studies Summer Seminar, the joint program with the American Center at Kyoto University.

Doshisha has been involved with the study of American culture and tradition ever since Joseph Hardy Neesima, the founder of Doshisha, left from feudal Japan in 1864 to study at Amherst College and Andover Theological Seminary. Upon his return, he established the Doshisha English School in 1875, which eventually became Doshisha University. Doshisha's early connection with the United States stimulated modern American Studies at this university. The Doshisha's tradition and Neesima's philosophy helped the development of the International Institute of American Studies in Kyoto.

Drawing upon the rich research resources of the International Institute, the Graduate School of American Studies was launched in April 1991 as the first full-scale graduate program of American Studies in Japan. Through out 1990's to 2000's, the graduate program of American Studies served as an institution to pass on the educational benefits of this institute for the academic community. In 2010, the Graduate School of American Studies was integrated into Graduate School of Global Studies and became the American Studies Cluster at the same graduate school.

Now, the International Institute of American Studies continues to carry Neesima's philosophy and coordinate activities concerning America and beyond with the help of the notable faculties across various disciplines at the Doshisha University.