There are seemingly endless options of English programs to study in Japan… so where do we even begin?
As a foreign student studying in Japan 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.
But fear no more! This article has compiled all the major English degree programs across thirteen top universities to help you in your pursuit to study in Japan!
With the establishment of various English programs geared towards international students, it has become more accessible and realizable than ever to study in Japan! For this, we can thank the “Global 30” Project. Established in 2009 by the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), this project aims to internationalize higher education in Japan through English-based degree programs, international support centers, specialized accommodations, and financial assistance for international students wishing to study in Japan.
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 helping international students study in Japan. For further information, click on the program title, which is hyperlinked to the official website! And now… let the hunt commence!
Study in Japan in English! A list of 13 Top Universities
Study in Japan 1: University of Tokyo

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. It is often the first university international students look at when they want to study in Japan.
Undergraduate
- Bachelor of Arts program PEAK (Programs in English at Komaba)
- Bachelors of Science program GSC (Global Science Center)
Graduate
- International Program in Economics
- Graduate Program on Global Society (GSP)
- Graduate Program on Environmental Sciences (GPES)
- Graduate Program for International Students (Graduate School of Science)
- Graduate Program for International Students
- Global Science Graduate Course (GSGC)
- International Graduate Program in the Field of Civil Engineering and Infrastructure Studies
- International Multidisciplinary Engineering Graduate Program
- Graduate Programs for International Students in Urban and Environmental Studies
- Special Graduate Program in Resilience Engineering (Systems Innovation Course)
- Special Graduate Program in Resilience Engineering (Nuclear Engineering and Management Course)
- Specially–Promoted Graduate Program for Creation of the Asian Engineering Framework Based on Tripolar Alliances among Japan, China and Korea
- International Bioengineering Course in Master’s Global 30 Program(G30-IBP)
- Architecture and Urban Design Course in Master’s Global 30 Program(G30-UDA)
- International Technology Management Course in the Department of Technology Management for Innovation (TMI) in Master’s Global 30 Program(G30-TMI)
- International Graduate Program in Chemistry and Biology
- International Program in Agricultural Development Studies (IPADS)
- Global Health Sciences: Program in International Health
- Environmental Studies Program-Asian Development Bank (ADB) Japan Scholarship Program
- Graduate Program in Sustainability Science – Global Leadership Initiative (GPSS-GLI)
- Graduate Program on Intelligent Information Processing
- International Master’s/Doctoral Degree Program: Information, Technology, and Society in Asia (ITASIA)
- Master of Public Policy, International Program (MPP/IP)
- Department of International Public Policy
Study in Japan 2: Kyoto University

Traditional culture and innovative creativity finds its unique balance at the University of 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
- Joint Degree Master of Arts Program in Transcultural Studies (JDTS) (joint degree program) [Master’s]
- International Graduate Programme for East Asia Sustainable Economic Development Studies [Master’s and Doctoral]
- International Joint Master Degree Program in Global Markets, Local Creativities (joint degree program) [Master’s]
- International Course in Management of Civil Infrastructure in the Department of Civil and Earth Resources Engineering [Master’s]
- International Course in Urban and Regional Development in the Department of Urban Management [Master’s]
- Integrated Engineering Course, Human Security Engineering Field [Master’s and Doctoral]
- Special Course in Agricultural Science – For the Global Future of Life, Food and the Environment [Master’s and Doctoral]
- International Energy Science Course [Master’s and Doctoral]
- International Course in Intelligence Science and Technology
[Master’s and Doctoral] - International Course in Social Informatics
[Master’s and Doctoral] - International Course in Communications and Computer Engineering
[Master’s and Doctoral] - Global Frontier in Life Science Program [Master’s and Doctoral]
- International Environmental Management Program
[Master’s and Doctoral] - International Course in Primatology and Wildlife Research
[Master’s and Doctoral] - International Project Management Program (i-PM) [MBA]
- International Business Administration Program (i-BA) [MBA]
- Kyoto-Cornell International Collaborative Degree Opportunity (KC-CDO) (double degree program) [MBA/MMH]
Study in Japan 3: Waseda University

Founded in 1882 by Shigenobu Okuma, Waseda University has become an international haven in the middle of central Tokyo. Known for its diverse options of clubs and fiery school spirit, Waseda University offers a lively university experience in conjunction with its prestigious academic disciplines. The university’s emphasis on international relations and global diversity makes it a comfortable environment for foreign students hoping to study in Japan.
Undergraduate
- School of Political Science and Economics
- School of Social Sciences Transnational and Interdisciplinary Studies in Social Innovation (TAISI)
- School of International Liberal Studies (SILS)
- School of Culture, Media and Society Global Studies in Japanese Cultures Program (JCulP)
- School of Fundamental Science and Engineering
- School of Creative Science and Engineering
Graduate
- Graduate School of Political Science
- Graduate School of Economics
- Graduate School of Law (Master’s program only)
- Graduate School of Letters, Arts and Sciences (Doctoral program only)
- Graduate School of Commerce (Doctoral program only)
- Graduate School of Fundamental Science and Engineering
- Graduate School of Creative Science and Engineering
- Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering
- Graduate School of Human Sciences (Master’s program only)
- Graduate School of Social Sciences
- Graduate School of Sport Sciences
- Graduate School of International Culture and Communication Studies
- Graduate School of Asia-Pacific Studies
- Graduate School of Information, Production and Systems
- Graduate School of Environment and Energy Engineering (Doctoral program only)
- Waseda Business School (MBA, Finance, Double MBA)
Study in Japan 4: 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
- PEARL (Programme in Economics for Alliance, Research, and Leadership)
- GIGA (Global Information and Governance Academic) Program
Graduate
- Economics: Master’s and Doctoral Programs
- Business and Commerce: Master’s Program in Taxation Policy and Management
- Medicine: Doctoral Program
- Science and Technology: International Graduate Programs on Advanced Science and Technology
- Science and Technology: Global Environmental System Leaders Course
- Media and Government: International Advanced Degrees Course [Master’s]
- Media and Government: Environmental Innovators Course [Master’s and Doctoral]
- Media and Government: Global Environmental System Leaders Course [Master’s and Doctoral]
- Health Management: Doctoral Program
- System Design and Management Course [Master’s and Doctoral]
- Media Design: Master’s and Doctoral Programs [Master’s and Doctoral]
- Media Design: Global Innovation Design Program [Master’s]
- Master of Law (LL.M.) in Global Legal Practice
Other Courses
- Global Interdisciplinary Courses (GIC) [undergraduate]
- Professional Career Program (PCP), Faculty of Economics [undergraduate 3rd and 4th year]
- Global Passport Program (GPP) [undergraduate 3rd and 4th year]
- International Center Courses [short-term international and full-time undergraduates]
Study in Japan 5: Sophia University

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, Sophia University has been internationally active, becoming the first university in Japan to establish an English-degree program.
Undergraduate
Graduate
- TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) [Master’s]
- Graduate Program in Global Studies
- Global Studies [Master’s and Doctoral]
- International Business and Development Studies [Master’s]
- Japanese Studies [Master’s and Doctoral]
- Green Science and Engineering [Master’s and Doctoral]
- Global Environmental Studies [Master’s and Doctoral]
- Education [Master’s and Doctoral]
Study in Japan 6: Osaka University

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, 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
- Human Sciences International Undergraduate Degree Program
- International Undergraduate Program in Science
Graduate
- Special Integrated Science Course
- International Physics Course
- Biotechnology Global Human Resource Development Program
- Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering
- Quantum Engineering Design Course
Study in Japan 7: Tohoku University

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 for international students looking to study in Japan.
Undergraduate
- Advanced Molecular Chemistry Course
- International Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Course Undergraduate
- Applied Marine Biology Course
Graduate
- International Graduate Program for Advanced Science
- International Post-Graduate Program in Human Security
- Cross-National Master’s Course
- Cross-National Doctor’s Course
- International Environmental Leadership Program
- International Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Course Graduate Course
- International Materials Science and Engineering Master Course
- International Robotics Program
- Data Sciences Program II
- International Biomechanics Program
- International Civil and Environmental Engineering Course
- Global Program in Economics and Management
- Information Technology and Science Course
- Interface Oral Health Science Course
- International Course of Life Sciences
- International Graduate Program in Language Sciences
- Network Medicine Course
- Basic Medicine Course
- International Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Graduate Program in Global Governance and Sustainable Development
Study in Japan 8: University of Tsukuba
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 lives on through its impressive alumni network and diverse student body throughout Japan.
Undergraduate
- Bachelor of Arts in International Social Sciences
- Bachelor of Bio-resource Science [Taught in English and Japanese]
- Bachelor of International Medical Science
- Bachelor of Science in Biology [Taught in English and Japanese]
- Bachelor of Science in Geoscience [Taught in English and Japanese]
- Bachelor’s Program in Global Issues
- Interdisciplinary Engineering
Graduate
- Agro-Bioresources Science and Technology [Master’s]
- Environmental Sciences [Master’s]
- International Agriculture Sciences [Master’s]
- Geosciences [Master’s]
- Mountain Studies [Master’s]
- Biological Sciences [Master’s, Doctoral]
- Agro-Biological Resource Sciences [Doctoral]
- International Agriculture Science [Doctoral]
- Bioindustrial Sciences [Doctoral]
- Bioresource Engineering and Economics [Doctoral]
- Computer Science [Master’s]
- Library and Information Science [Master’s]
- Empowerment Informatic [Doctoral]
- Material Science and Engineering [Doctoral]
- Economic and Public Policy [Master’s]
- International Relation [Master’s]
- International Public Policy [Master’s, Doctoral]
- International Business [Master’s]
- International Education [Master’s]
- Life Science Innovation [Master’s]
- Public Health [Master’s]
- Human Biology [Doctoral]
- International Medical Sciences [Doctoral]
- Sport and Olympic Studies [Master’s]
- Humanics [Doctoral]
Study in Japan 9: 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
- Global Studies Master’s Course
- Global Studies Doctoral Course
- Business: Global MBA Course
- International Science and Technology Course
Study in Japan 10: Kyushu University
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 an interconnected environment with rich human connections, perfect for foreign students who would appreciate individualized support during their studies in Japan.
Undergraduate
- School of Engineering (1 year general courses, 3 years specialized courses)
- School of Bioresource and Bioenvironment
Graduate
- International Master’s Program in Japanese Humanities
- International Program in Integrated Science for Global Society [Master’s, Doctoral]
- International Course in Sustainable Architecture and Urban Systems [Master’s, Doctoral]
- LL.M. Program
- LL.D. Program
- Bilingual Master’s Program in Law (BiP)
- Young Leaders’ Program (YLP) in Law
- Master Program in Law (JICA-LL.M.)
- Double Degree LL.M. Programs in Law
- Doctoral Program in Law (LL.D.)
- Doctoral Program in Law (JICA-LL.D.)
- International Program in Public Economics (IPPE)
- International Program in Financial and Business Economics (IPFBE)
- International Program in Management and Accounting (IPMA)
- IEBL Program (LL.M. in International Economic and Business Law)
- JDS Program
- CSPA Program (Master of Laws in Comparative Studies of Politics and Administration in Asia)
- Kyushu Summer Institute in Law & Innovation
- International Master’s Program in Economics (IMPE)
- International Doctoral Program in Economics (IDPE)
- International Master’s Program in the Graduate School of Sciences
- International Doctoral Program in the Graduate School of Sciences
- International Master’s Program in Mathematics
- International Doctoral Program in Mathematics
- International Doctoral Program in Systems Life Sciences
- International Doctoral Program in Medical Science
- International Master’s Program in Asia Health Sciences
- International Doctoral Program in Asia Health Sciences
- International Doctoral Program in Dental Science
- International Course in the Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences
- International Program in Applied Chemistry
- International Program in Materials Science and Engineering
- International Program in Chemical Engineering
- International Program in Civil and Structural Engineering
- International Program in Urban and Environmental Engineering
- International Program in Maritime Engineering
- International Program in Earth Resources Engineering
- International Program in Applied Quantum Physics and Nuclear Engineering
- International Program in Mechanical Engineering
- International Program in Hydrogen Energy Systems
- International Program in Aeronautics and Astronautics
- Doctoral Program of Human Science International Course
- International Doctoral Program in Information Science and Electrical Engineering
- International Master’s Program in Applied Science for Electronics and Materials
- International Master’s Program in Molecular and Material Sciences
- International Master’s Program in Advanced Energy Engineering Science
- International Master’s Program in Energy and Environmental Engineering
- International Master’s Program in Earth System Science and Technology
- Intellectual Exchange and Innovation Program (Ph.Ds)
- International Development Research Course (M.Sc)
- International Development Research Course (Ph.D.)
- International Master’s/Doctoral Program in Automotive Science
Study in Japan 11: Meiji University
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 study in Japan with the founding spirits of “rights, liberty, independence and autonomy”.
Undergraduate
Graduate
- International Program in Architecture and Urban Design (I-AUD), Graduate School of Science and Technology (Master’s Course & Doctoral Course)
- Mathematical Sciences Program, Graduate School of Advanced Mathematical Sciences (MIMS PhD program) (Doctoral Course)
- Frontier Media Science Program, Graduate School of Advanced Mathematical Sciences (Doctoral Course)
- Graduate School of Global Governance (Doctoral Course)
- Graduate School of Business Administration
- Only for Double Masters program students from UTM RAZAK School in Malaysia or Solbridge International School of Business in South Korea.
- Graduate School of Governance Studies (Master’s Course)
Study in Japan 12: Nagoya University
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 wanting to study in Japan.
Undergraduate
- Automotive Engineering
- Physics-Science
- Chemistry
- Biological Science
- Social Science- Law
- Social Science- Economics
- Japan-in-Asia Cultural Studies
Graduate
- Automotive Engineering
- Civil and Environmental Engineering
- Earth and Environmental Sciences
- Engineering Physics
- Physics and Mathematics
- Chemistry
- Biological and Bioagricultural Sciences (Bioagricultural)
- Biological and Bioagricultural Sciences (Medicine)
- Medical Science
- Economics and Business Administration
- Linguistics and Cultural Studies
- Japan-in-Asia Cultural Studies
- Law and Political Science
- International Development and Cooperation
- Nagoya University Global Environmental Leaders Program (NUGELP)
- Young Leaders’ Program (YLP)- Healthcare Administration Course of Master’s Degree Program
Study in Japan 13: Ritsumeikan University
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
- College of International Relations, Global Studies Major
- College of Policy Science, Community and Regional Policy Studies Major
- College of Information Science and Engineering, Information Systems Science and Engineering Course
- College of International Relations, American University-Ritsumeikan University Joint Degree Program (JDP)
- College of Global Liberal Arts (GLA)
- Dual Degree Program with the Australian National University
Master’s
- Master’s Program in Economic Development
- International Program for Science and Engineering
- International Program for Information Science and Engineering
- International Program for Life Sciences
- Master’s Program in International Relations
- Master’s Program in Policy Science
Doctoral
- International Program for Science and Engineering
- International Program for Information Science and Engineering
- International Program for Life Sciences
- Doctoral Program in Management of Technology
- Doctoral Program in International Relations
- Doctoral Program in Policy Science
…Phew!
What a list! While it may seem overwhelming at first glance, these abundant options allow international students to find a program that truly suits their aspirations and study in Japan in English! So dive in! A name in the list may well be your future alma mater… 😉