The master’s program was established in 1974, and the doctoral program in 1976. Our graduate program in International and Cultural Studies was the first of its kind in Japan. Students examine contemporary society’s problems from a historical perspective, taking into account the characteristics of individual regions, cultures, and ethnicities. In addition to the standard stand-alone subjects, our curriculum also employs an interdisciplinary approach, with the aim of producing specialists and researchers with superior critical thinking and analytical capabilities. The scope of research is vast, as graduate students may choose from among a wide variety of historical eras, areas, and methodologies in the selection of their research topic.

The curriculum consists of three components: a comprehensive seminar, in which the entire graduate student body participates in discussions with selected members of the faculty; a seminar attended by both methodology majors and area-studies majors, where joint discussions are undertaken on specified topics; and individual guidance on academic research, administered by faculty members. In addition, our graduate students have the opportunity to participate in intercollegiate research as members of one of the 10 study groups organized by the Institute for International and Cultural Studies.

NOTE: The university may have additional program-specific eligibility requirements. It is recommended to verify these on the official university website.