Short-Term (1-year) Enrollment System / Long-Term Study System / QE System
Short-Term (1-year) Enrollment System
Students can earn a degree in one year while continuing to work.
The Division of Economics (Economic Theory and Policy Course / Management Information Course, and Regional Development Studies) offers a short-term enrollment system that enables students to earn a degree in a relatively short period while working.
We accept working professionals aiming to conduct practical and policy-oriented research based on statistical and quantitative methods, primarily in the fields of administration and corporate (or NPO) management.
Please note that this program is not intended for students planning to advance to a doctoral program.
For those planning to enroll in the short-term (1-year) system, careful advance planning is essential to ensure a smooth start in April and completion within one year.
In an individual study consultation with your prospective supervisor, discuss your research theme, desired degree, support system (including selection of a sub-supervisor), minor, study abroad or internship plans, and course registration schedule.
Study flow
Time of Admission
- Orientation upon admission
- Study consultation with academic advisors (study plan development)
- Establishment of a support system
First year
- Classes (evening, Saturday, and summer courses available)
- Seminars, guidance from multiple instructors
- Research activities
- Interim research report
Completion Requirements
- Achieve the prescribed score in the English proficiency test for each major
- Earn the required credits for each major
- Submit and pass the review of a Master’s thesis or research paper
Long-Term Course System(Excludes students enrolled in the short-term, one-year enrollment program)
This system allows students to pursue their studies while working or raising children.
The Graduate School of Human and Socio-Environmental Studies established the long-term course option for those engaged in employment, housework, childcare, or nursing care.
Under this system, students can set an extended study period within the maximum enrollment period stipulated by university regulations (four years for the Master’s program and six years for the Doctoral program).
This approach offers flexible learning opportunities tailored to the diverse needs of working individuals.
The tuition for the standard course period (two years for the Master’s program and three years for the Doctoral program) is divided into installments paid over the entire extended program duration.
Introduction of the “Doctoral Dissertation Research Fundamentals Examination (QE)”
Since the 2022 academic year, the Graduate School of Human and Socio-Environmental Studies has implemented the Doctoral Dissertation Research Fundamentals Examination (hereafter “QE”).
Students aiming to advance to the Doctoral program may complete the Master’s program by passing the QE instead of submitting a Master’s thesis or research paper and passing the final examination (a standard completion requirement).
This preferential system enables students to:
Devote the time normally spent writing a Master’s thesis to research and writing academic papers for submission.
Begin Doctoral-level research at an earlier stage.
Receive priority consideration for scholarships (if desired).