There’s seemingly endless options of English programs in Japanese universities to choose from… so where do we even begin?

As a foreign student myself, I also understand that feeling of uncertainty, scavenging our way through Japanese websites, constantly having to click “back” from pages packed with Japanese kanji.

Fear no more! For this article has compiled all major English-based programs across thirteen of Japan’s top universities.

With the establishment of various English programs geared towards international students, studying in Japan has become more accessible and realizable than ever before! For this, we can thank the “Global 30” Project. Established in 2009 by the the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), this project aims to to internationalize higher education in Japan through English-based degree programs, international support centers, specialized accommodations, and financial assistance for foreign students.

In this article, we will introduce the list of 13 universities selected by the “Global 30” Project, along with their respective English-based undergraduate and graduate programs. For further information, click on the program title, which is hyperlinked to the official website! And now… let the hunt commence!

English-based Higher Education Programs

1. Doshisha University


https://www.doshisha.ac.jp/en/information/campus/imadegawa/overview.html

First founded in the late Edo period by Joseph Hardy Neesima,
one of the foremost educators of the Meiji period, the Doshima University stands on a foundation of rich history in the Kyoto prefecture. It has maintained its founder’s practice of an ‘education based on Christian principles’, which fosters liberal and global perspectives throughout the campus.

Undergraduate

  • Institute for the Liberal Arts
    • One of three specializations: Humanities and the Human Sciences (Japanese Society and Global Culture); Business and Economics (Japanese Business and the Global Economy); or Politics and Policy Studies (Japanese Politics and Global Studies)

Graduate

2. Keio University


https://www.keio.ac.jp/en/about/campus/mita.html

Keio University, Japan’s oldest private comprehensive university, is located in the Greater Tokyo Area, which is one of the world’s largest metropolitan regions. With 6 major campuses, 10 undergraduate facilities, and 14 graduate schools, Keio offers its students a diverse intellectual environment with a remarkable alumni network.

Undergraduate

Graduate

Other Courses

3. Kyoto University

See the source image

http://www.opir.kyoto-u.ac.jp/study/en/

Traditional culture and innovative creativity finds its unique balance at the University if Kyoto, which upholds its mission to ‘sustain and develop its historical commitment to academic freedom and to pursue harmonious coexistence within the human and ecological community on this planet.’ The University of Kyoto offers both academic excellence and cultural experiences to international students, making it a perfect choice for anyone looking for exposure to authentic Japanese traditions.

Undergraduate

Graduate

4. Kyushu University

Image result for kyushu university campus

http://www.tj.kyushu-u.ac.jp/en/igses/c_why/why_kyu-dai.php

As one of the most prestigious research-oriented universities in Japan, the University of Kyushu leads not only Japan but all of Asia in the fields of medicine and innovative science. With 18,619 students and a 9:1 student to faculty ratio, the university fosters a interconnected environment with rich human connections, perfect for foreign students who would appreciate individualized support during their studies.

Undergraduate

Graduate

5. Meiji University

See the source image

https://www.meiji.ac.jp/cip/english/about/campus/ikuta.html

Founded by three young lawyers in an era characterized by Japan’s urgent need to develop as a modern independent nation, the Meiji University emphasizes the nurturing of “austerity and sturdiness” in its students. It is one of the most prestigious universities in Japan with campuses located in Tokyo and Kawasaki. With 10 undergraduate and 16 graduate facilities, the university welcomes international students to join their founding spirits of “rights, liberty, independence and autonomy”.

Undergraduate

Graduate

6. Nagoya University

See the source image

https://www.dur.ac.uk/international/studyabroad/exchange/outgoing/partnerunis/nagoya/

Established in 1939 as the last Imperial University of Japan, the Nagoya University is the symbol of enlightenment and reform. The Nagoya University Academic Charter assures “a culture of free and open-minded academic endeavor” and “contributing to the prosperity and happiness of all people.” This ideal is reflected in their public stance towards the LGBT+ community, which strives to create an all-inclusive student body, regardless of sexual orientation. While the Nagoya University is academically prestigious, its diverse and open-minded environment offers an opportunity for social development for its students.

Undergraduate

Graduate

7. Osaka University

See the source image

https://www.monash.edu/study-abroad/partners/osaka-university

The University of Osaka is perfect for those adventurous students who seek a lively learning environment. Ranking third in Japan and 53rd worldwide in the 2019 Center For World University Rankings, the Osaka University is considered one of the most selective universities in Japan. In addition to its academic excellence, its location in the shopping hub of Japan offers unique exposure to tasty cuisine, lively markets, and global connections.

Undergraduate

Graduate

8. Ritsumeikan University

Image result for ritsumeikan uni campus

http://en.ritsumei.ac.jp/

Founded in 1869 in the Kyoto Prefecture, the Ritsumeikan University is considered as one of the four leading private universities in western Japan. In addition to its academic prestige, it is interesting to note its American-styled collegiate football team, which has won three national championships, seven collegiate championships, and nine conference championships!

Undergraduate

Master’s

Doctoral

9. Sophia University

Sophia University, Yotsuya Campus

Sophia University, derived from the Greek word for “wisdom”, is a leading private research university in Japan, located in Central Tokyo’s Chiyoda Ward. Since its founding in 1913 by a group of Jesuits, the Sophia University has been internationally active, becoming the first university in Japan to establish an English-degree program.

Undergraduate

Graduate

10. Tohoku University

Tohoku university
https://tgu.mext.go.jp/en/universities/tohoku/img/mainimg.jpg

The Tohoku University, located in Miyagi in the Tōhoku Region, is the third imperial university and one of the seven national universities of Japan. It has maintained its spirit of Research First, the philosophy of Open Doors and the policy of Practice Oriented Research and Education. Today, it is considered one of the most prestigious universities in Japan.

Undergraduate

Graduate

11. University of Tokyo

One of the most recognisable buildings on the University of Tokyo Campus, the Clocktower
https://www.rdmag.com/news/2016/06/university-tokyo-utilize-new-sgi-supercomputer

Ranked as one of the top universities in Japan, the University of Tokyo is the nation’s oldest and largest national university. Ranked 36th on World University Ranking, the University of Tokyo (often referred to as “todai”) is a global leader in research and innovation.

Undergraduate

Graduate

12. University of Tsukuba

Image result for tsukuba uni campus
http://www.chs.tsukuba.ac.jp/en/

Founded in October 1973, the University of Tsukuba is one of Japan’s leading comprehensive universities. Having been directed under the presidency of three Nobel Prize laureates, the university is considered a forerunner of university reform in Japan. To this day, its prestige live on through its impressive alumni network and diverse student body.

Undergraduate

Graduate

13. Waseda University

https://www.waseda.jp/top/en-news/35183

Founded in 1882 by Shigenobu Okuma, the Waseda University has become an international haven in the middle of central Tokyo. Known for its diverse options of clubs and a fiery school spirit, the Waseda University offers a lively university experience in conjunction to its prestigious academic disciplines. The university’s emphasis on international relations and global diversity makes it a comfortable environment for foreign students.

Undergraduate

Graduate

…Phew!

What a list! While it may seem overwhelming at first glance, these abundant options provided by the Global 30 Project allows for international students to find a program that truly suits their aspirations and needs. So dive in! A name in the list may well be your future alma mater… 😉