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Hokkaido University has specific language requirements depending on the program and level of study. These requirements typically vary for undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as for courses taught in Japanese versus those taught in English.

1. Undergraduate Programs

For undergraduate programs, the language requirements depend on whether the program is taught in Japanese or English.

a. Programs Taught in Japanese

Students applying to Japanese-taught programs must demonstrate Japanese language proficiency. The primary way to do this is by submitting results from the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT).

• JLPT N1 or N2: Most Japanese-taught programs require a JLPT N1 level (the highest level), but some programs may accept N2 proficiency depending on the specific field.
• EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students): Some programs may also require or accept scores from the EJU test, which assesses Japanese language skills, along with knowledge in science, mathematics, and Japan/world studies.

b. Programs Taught in English

Hokkaido University offers a number of English-taught undergraduate programs, particularly as part of the Global 30 Project. For these programs, international students must demonstrate proficiency in English.

• TOEFL iBT: A minimum score of 80 or higher (depending on the program).
• IELTS: A minimum score of 6.0 or higher is generally required.
• TOEIC: Some programs may accept TOEIC scores, but it is less commonly used.

2. Graduate Programs

Graduate programs at Hokkaido University also have specific language requirements based on the language of instruction.

a. Japanese-Taught Graduate Programs

For Japanese-taught graduate programs, proficiency in Japanese is essential, especially for fields such as humanities and social sciences, where language is a key component of study.

• JLPT N1: Applicants typically need to submit N1 level scores to demonstrate their Japanese proficiency.
• Some programs may require additional proof of Japanese language skills through written examinations or interviews conducted in Japanese.

b. English-Taught Graduate Programs

Hokkaido University offers several English-taught graduate programs in fields like engineering, environmental science, medicine, and agriculture.

• TOEFL iBT: A minimum score of 80–85 is typically required, depending on the specific graduate program.
• IELTS: A minimum score of 6.0–6.5 is often required.
• TOEIC: Less commonly accepted, but a minimum score of 730–780 might be considered for some programs.

3. Special Programs for International Students

For students entering through special international programs, such as the Modern Japanese Studies Program (MJSP) or the Integrated Science Program (ISP), language requirements are adjusted to accommodate international students.

a. Modern Japanese Studies Program (MJSP)

• This program begins with a one-year intensive Japanese language course, so students do not need to be fluent in Japanese when they apply. However, they must still have a basic understanding of the language (often demonstrated with JLPT N4 or N5 level proficiency).
• After completing the language course, students are expected to meet higher Japanese proficiency standards to continue with the core curriculum.

b. Integrated Science Program (ISP)

• The ISP is entirely taught in English, so applicants must meet the English language requirements, typically a TOEFL iBT score of 80 or higher or an IELTS score of 6.0 or higher.
• No Japanese language proficiency is required to enter this program, but students are encouraged to take Japanese language courses during their studies.

4. Research Students (Kenkyusei)

Research students or "Kenkyusei" (non-degree students who conduct research under a professor) must also demonstrate language proficiency depending on their field and supervisor’s requirements.

• Japanese Proficiency: If the research is conducted in Japanese, applicants must typically have N1 level proficiency in Japanese.
• English Proficiency: For research conducted in English, a TOEFL iBT score of 80 or higher or an IELTS score of 6.0 or above is generally required.

5. Additional Requirements

• Graduate Admission Exams: In some cases, applicants might be required to take an entrance examination, which may include a language proficiency section or a language-based interview, especially for Japanese-taught graduate programs.
• Language Classes for International Students: Hokkaido University offers Japanese language courses for international students enrolled in English-taught programs to help them integrate better into Japanese society.

How to Apply

Hokkaido University offers a wide range of courses across multiple disciplines, and it is especially known for its strong programs in certain key areas. Here are some of the course specialities that the university is renowned for:

1. Agricultural Science

Hokkaido University has a long tradition in agriculture and is recognized for its excellence in agricultural science, owing to its origins as the Sapporo Agricultural College.

• Crop Science
• Animal Science
• Environmental Conservation
• Food Science and Biotechnology
• Sustainable Agriculture
• Forest Science

The Graduate School of Agriculture is well-known for conducting cutting-edge research in sustainable farming practices and food security, particularly in cold regions.

2. Environmental Science

Hokkaido University is a leader in environmental studies and sustainability, with a strong focus on addressing the global challenges posed by climate change.

• Global Environmental Management
• Sustainable Development
• Arctic and Polar Studies
• Biodiversity and Conservation
• Renewable Energy Technologies
• Marine and Coastal Management

The Graduate School of Environmental Science and the Arctic Research Center are renowned for research on climate change, polar ecosystems, and environmental sustainability.

3. Engineering

The Faculty of Engineering at Hokkaido University is known for its innovation in both traditional and emerging fields of engineering. It has a strong emphasis on applying engineering solutions to real-world challenges.

• Mechanical Engineering
• Civil and Environmental Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Materials Science and Engineering
• Robotics and Control Systems
• Electrical and Electronic Engineering
• Nanotechnology
• Energy Systems Engineering

Hokkaido University is particularly famous for its research in nanotechnology and materials science, as well as sustainable technologies related to energy and the environment.

4. Life Sciences and Medicine

Hokkaido University is a leader in the fields of biological sciences and medicine, with notable research in immunology, cancer biology, and infectious diseases.

• Biomedical Sciences
• Genetics and Genomics
• Immunology and Infectious Diseases
• Neuroscience
• Regenerative Medicine
• Molecular Biology
• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Public Health and Zoonosis Control

The university's Graduate School of Medicine and its Research Center for Zoonosis Control are highly regarded, especially for their work on infectious diseases transmitted between humans and animals.

5. Chemistry

Hokkaido University is well-known for its chemistry programs, particularly in organic chemistry and catalysis. Nobel Prize-winning chemist Akira Suzuki, who developed the Suzuki Coupling, is an alumnus and former professor at the university.

• Organic Chemistry
• Inorganic Chemistry
• Catalysis
• Materials Chemistry
• Green Chemistry

The Institute for Catalysis at Hokkaido University is a leading research center in catalysis and chemical synthesis.

6. Veterinary Medicine

Hokkaido University’s School of Veterinary Medicine is one of the top programs in Japan, with a strong emphasis on zoonosis control and veterinary public health.

• Animal Health
• Zoonotic Diseases
• Veterinary Public Health
• Comparative Pathology

The university is recognized for its role in controlling infectious diseases that affect both animals and humans, particularly through its Research Center for Zoonosis Control.

7. Marine Science

Due to its location near coastal waters, Hokkaido University has a strong focus on marine sciences, including oceanography, marine biology, and fisheries science.

• Marine Biology
• Fisheries Science
• Aquaculture
• Marine Resource Management
• Marine Environmental Science

The university’s Faculty of Fisheries Sciences is one of Japan's top programs in this field, with a focus on sustainable management of marine resources.

8. Polar Science

Hokkaido University is known for its research in polar and cold region science, due to its proximity to the Arctic.

• Polar Climate Studies
• Glaciology
• Permafrost Science
• Polar Ecosystem Studies
• Arctic Geophysics

The Arctic Research Center at Hokkaido University is globally recognized for its contributions to polar science and its research on the impact of climate change in cold regions.

9. Humanities and Social Sciences

Although Hokkaido University is better known for its science and engineering programs, it also offers strong programs in the humanities and social sciences.

• Japanese Studies
• History and Archaeology
• Cultural and Social Anthropology
• International Relations
• Law
• Political Science

The university’s Slavic-Eurasian Research Center is one of Japan’s leading research institutions for the study of Russia, Central Asia, and Eastern Europe.

10. Business and Economics

The Graduate School of Economics and Business Administration offers courses and research opportunities in:

• International Economics
• Development Economics
• Business Administration
• Management Science
• Entrepreneurship

This school is particularly strong in international trade, reflecting Hokkaido's strategic location and its global outlook.

11. Global Education Programs

Hokkaido University is part of the Global 30 Project, which offers several English-taught programs aimed at international students.

• Integrated Science Program (ISP): A multidisciplinary program that allows students to study natural sciences in English.
• Modern Japanese Studies Program (MJSP): An undergraduate program focused on Japanese society, history, and culture, taught in English.
• Graduate Programs in English: Various graduate programs in fields such as engineering, environmental science, and medicine are offered in English for international students.

Summary of Course Specialties:

• Agriculture and environmental sciences are Hokkaido University’s most recognized fields.
• The university excels in engineering, especially materials science, nanotechnology, and energy systems.
• It is renowned for life sciences, particularly in biomedical research and infectious disease control.
• Hokkaido University also stands out in marine sciences, polar research, and chemistry, especially in organic chemistry and catalysis.

With its comprehensive and diverse academic offerings, Hokkaido University continues to be a top choice for students pursuing research and studies in fields that address global challenges.

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Hokkaido University is home to many distinguished professors and researchers across various fields. Here are some notable faculty members, particularly recognized for their contributions to their respective disciplines:

1. Akira Suzuki

• Field: Chemistry
• Notable Achievements: Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2010 for his development of the Suzuki Coupling reaction, which is crucial for creating carbon-carbon bonds in organic chemistry. He is a former professor at Hokkaido University's Department of Chemistry and is known for his significant contributions to organic synthesis.

2. Masaru Tomita

• Field: Systems Biology and Bioinformatics
• Notable Achievements: Known for his pioneering work in genomics and proteomics, Masaru Tomita has contributed significantly to systems biology. He was instrumental in developing the Hokkaido University’s Systems Biology Research Center and has numerous publications in high-impact journals.

3. Shigeru Tohma

• Field: Marine Biology and Fisheries
• Notable Achievements: A leading researcher in marine resource management and fisheries science, Shigeru Tohma has made significant contributions to the understanding of sustainable practices in marine ecosystems.

4. Akihiko Takahashi

• Field: Earth and Planetary Sciences
• Notable Achievements: Takahashi is recognized for his research on earthquake mechanics and geophysical studies, contributing to the understanding of seismic activities and disaster prevention.

5. Yoshiharu Takashima

• Field: Veterinary Medicine
• Notable Achievements: A prominent figure in the field of veterinary science, Takashima’s research focuses on animal health and zoonotic diseases, contributing to advancements in public health.

6. Mitsuo Tsubokawa

• Field: Environmental Science and Policy
• Notable Achievements: Tsubokawa is known for his research on environmental sustainability and policy-making, playing a vital role in addressing environmental issues in Japan and globally.

7. Tetsuya Sato

• Field: Agricultural Sciences
• Notable Achievements: Sato is an expert in crop science and plant physiology, contributing to advancements in agricultural practices, particularly in the context of climate change and food security.

8. Takashi Okamoto

• Field: Neuroscience
• Notable Achievements: A recognized researcher in the field of neurobiology, Okamoto's work focuses on the mechanisms of neurological disorders and potential therapeutic approaches.

Hokkaido University has a notable history when it comes to Nobel Prize laureates associated with the institution. Here is a key figure who won the Nobel Prize and is closely linked to the university:

1. Akira Suzuki – Nobel Prize in Chemistry (2010)

• Nobel Prize: Akira Suzuki was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2010 for his groundbreaking work on palladium-catalyzed cross-coupling reactions. This reaction, known as the Suzuki Coupling, is a method for creating carbon-carbon bonds, which is widely used in organic chemistry and has numerous applications, especially in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries.
• Research at Hokkaido University: Suzuki conducted much of his research at Hokkaido University, where he was a professor at the Department of Chemistry in the Faculty of Science. His work at Hokkaido University contributed to his development of the Suzuki-Miyaura coupling reaction, a key discovery that earned him international recognition.
• Impact: The Suzuki Coupling is used extensively in the synthesis of complex organic compounds, including drugs and materials used in electronics. It has had a profound impact on various fields, from medicine to material science, making Suzuki's contribution highly influential globally.

Influence of the Nobel Laureate:

• Suzuki's work brought global attention to Hokkaido University's chemistry department, making it a center for excellence in organic chemistry and catalysis research. The university is now known as one of the leading institutions in Japan for chemistry research, largely due to Suzuki's contributions and the legacy he left behind.