Division of International Studies

Overview – Enrollment Limit : 10

Amid the increasing globalization of society, the Division of International Studies aims to cultivate human resources who possess practical foreign language proficiency and can actively contribute to the international community. Graduates are expected to have a deep interest in global issues and diverse cultures, as well as specialized knowledge in their fields. The program also seeks to develop individuals with strong Japanese communication skills, enabling them to work effectively in international contexts through mastery of Japanese language, culture, and teaching methods—such as those required of Japanese language educators.

Diploma Policy

The Master of International Studies degree is awarded to students who possess practical foreign language skills, a strong interest in international issues and cultural diversity, and who have conducted research primarily in the fields of international studies or Japanese culture, acquiring advanced knowledge in these areas.

The Master of Arts in International Studies is awarded to those wishing to conduct interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary research in international studies or Japanese culture that closely relates to other fields. Under the guidance of an academic advisor, such students take courses in sociology, economics, and other relevant disciplines to support their research.

The Master of Science is awarded to students who, under the guidance of an academic advisor, complete coursework in sociology, economics, and other relevant subjects in different majors.

Depending on the program, degrees may be conferred as either Master of International Studies or Master of Philosophy.

Degree Requirements

(1) Master (International Studies)

Students are required to possess practical foreign language skills and demonstrate a strong interest in international issues and cross-cultural studies. They must complete the required coursework and pass either the Master’s thesis examination or the Qualifying Examination (QE), which assesses foundational skills for doctoral dissertation research. These requirements are based on the premise that their education and research will focus primarily on fields related to international studies or Japanese culture.

(2) Master (Philosophy)

Students wishing to engage in interdisciplinary or integrative research closely related to their primary coursework, while maintaining strong ties to other specialized fields, may, under the guidance of their academic advisor, take courses in other majors such as sociology, economics, linguistics, or psychology to support this goal. They are required to complete the necessary coursework within the framework of interdisciplinary education and research, and to pass either the Master’s thesis examination or the Qualifying Examination (QE), which assesses foundational skills for doctoral dissertation research.