Japanese women studying abroad, the case of the United States

There is clear statistical evidence showing that increasing numbers of Japanese people in general, and young Japanese women in particular, are spending time abroad. Considering Japan's full integration into the global economy in an age of enhanced globalization characterized by economic development and unprecedented ease of travel, it is not surprising that the number of Japanese individuals working, studying and traveling abroad is on the rise. This paper analyzes patterns of out-migration among Japanese women, with a particular focus on women who migrate to institutions of higher education abroad. Given the limited opportunity and reward structure of women in the Japanese labour market, it is not surprising that an increasing number of women choose to study abroad as a means to enhance their human capital, and to improve their employment prospects.