Kyushu University
Address: 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
Phone: +81-92-802-2121
Email: intloffice@jimu.kyushu-u.ac.jp
Website: https://www.kyushu-u.ac.jp/en/
Kyushu University offers programs in both Japanese and English, and the language requirements vary depending on the specific program and level of study. Here is a breakdown of the general language requirements:
1. Programs Taught in Japanese
For most undergraduate and graduate programs taught in Japanese, proficiency in the Japanese language is required. Students must demonstrate their Japanese language skills through standardized tests.
- Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT):
- JLPT N1: For most undergraduate and graduate programs taught in Japanese, students are generally required to have passed JLPT N1, the highest level of the test.
- JLPT N2: In some cases, JLPT N2 might be accepted, but N1 is often preferred, especially for graduate-level courses.
- EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students):
- Many programs require students to take the EJU as part of the admission process. The EJU tests students on Japanese language, mathematics, science, and general subjects, depending on the program they apply to.
2. Programs Taught in English
Kyushu University offers several programs taught entirely in English, especially at the graduate level and through international programs such as the IMAT (International Master’s Program in Environmental Management and Technology) and IMAP (International Master’s Program in Asia-Pacific Studies). The language requirements for these programs are focused on English proficiency.
- TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language):
- For English-taught programs, applicants generally need to submit TOEFL scores.
- A typical minimum score is iBT 80 or PBT 550, but some programs may have different requirements.
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System):
- Many programs accept IELTS scores as well.
- A minimum IELTS score of 6.0 to 6.5 is commonly required.
- Other English Proficiency Tests:
- Some programs may also accept other English language tests, such as TOEIC or Cambridge English exams, but this depends on the specific program.
3. Global 30 (G30) International Programs
Kyushu University participates in Japan’s Global 30 Project, which offers undergraduate and graduate programs entirely in English for international students. The language requirements for these programs are:
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 80 or higher.
- IELTS: Minimum score of 6.0 or higher.
- Native English speakers or those who have completed their previous education in English may be exempt from submitting test scores, depending on the program’s policy.
4. Graduate Programs
Graduate programs at Kyushu University, especially those in science, engineering, environmental studies, and international studies, may offer courses in both Japanese and English. The language requirements depend on the medium of instruction:
- Programs in Japanese: JLPT N1 or N2 proficiency.
- Programs in English: TOEFL or IELTS with minimum scores of iBT 80 or IELTS 6.0 (higher scores may be required for certain programs).
5. Language Proficiency for Exchange Students
Kyushu University accepts exchange students from partner institutions worldwide. The language requirements for exchange students vary by program:
- For programs taught in Japanese, proficiency in JLPT N2 or higher is typically required.
- For programs taught in English, exchange students need to demonstrate English proficiency through TOEFL or IELTS scores, with the typical requirement being TOEFL iBT 80 or IELTS 6.0.
6. Japanese Language Courses for International Students
Kyushu University offers Japanese language courses for international students enrolled in non-language programs. These courses help students improve their Japanese language skills while studying their major.
Summary of Language Requirements
- Japanese Programs: JLPT N1 (preferred), N2 (may be accepted).
- English Programs:
- TOEFL iBT 80 or IELTS 6.0 (minimum).
- Some programs may require higher scores, especially at the graduate level.
- Global 30 Programs: English proficiency, typically TOEFL iBT 80 or IELTS 6.0.
International students should check the specific language requirements for their intended program, as they may vary slightly depending on the faculty or department.
Kyushu University offers a wide range of specialized courses across various disciplines. Its strength lies in research and education in science, engineering, medicine, agriculture, and environmental studies. Below are some of the key course specializations that Kyushu University is known for:
1. Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering: Focuses on robotics, aeronautics, and manufacturing systems.
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering: Known for cutting-edge research in electronics, communication systems, and power systems.
- Civil Engineering: Specializes in disaster prevention, coastal engineering, and urban planning.
- Materials Science and Engineering: Research in nanomaterials, semiconductors, and advanced composites.
- Computer Science and Information Systems: Strong focus on artificial intelligence, big data analytics, cybersecurity, and software engineering.
- Energy Engineering: Specializes in renewable energy, hydrogen energy, and carbon-neutral technologies.
2. Medicine and Health Sciences
- Transplantation Surgery: Kyushu University is a leader in liver transplant surgery and other advanced medical techniques.
- Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research: Known for groundbreaking research in regenerative therapies, including iPS cells.
- Cancer Biology and Oncology: Research and clinical work in cancer immunotherapy and personalized medicine.
- Immunology and Infectious Diseases: Pioneering work in the study of autoimmune diseases, immunotherapy, and infectious diseases.
- Public Health: Programs focused on epidemiology, global health, and preventive medicine.
3. Environmental Science and Sustainability
- Environmental Engineering: Specializes in renewable energy systems, sustainable urban planning, and environmental protection.
- Sustainable Development and Carbon-Neutral Research: Research in carbon capture and storage (CCS), renewable energy, and energy-efficient technologies.
- Climate Change and Energy Resources: Kyushu University's I2CNER (International Institute for Carbon-Neutral Energy Research) focuses on tackling climate change and energy challenges.
4. Materials Science
- Nanotechnology and Nanomaterials: Kyushu University is known for developing advanced materials for energy, electronics, and healthcare.
- Polymer Chemistry and Soft Materials: Research in advanced polymers, biodegradable plastics, and materials for medical applications.
- Semiconductor Technology: Research in semiconductors, especially for energy-efficient electronics and LED technologies.
5. Agriculture and Food Science
- Plant Science and Biotechnology: Research in genetic engineering, crop improvement, and sustainable agriculture practices.
- Food Science and Technology: Focus on food safety, food engineering, and the development of functional foods.
- Environmental Agricultural Science: Combines environmental studies with sustainable farming and conservation techniques.
6. International Relations and Japanese Studies
- Japanese and Asian Studies: Focus on Japanese language, culture, and history, with interdisciplinary approaches to understanding Asia.
- International Business and Economics: Programs in international relations, global economics, and trade, with a focus on Asia-Pacific economic integration.
- Law and Political Science: International law, human rights, and global governance, with a focus on contemporary Japanese law and international relations in East Asia.
7. Business and Management
- International MBA Programs: Kyushu offers MBA programs that focus on global management, entrepreneurship, and business strategies with an emphasis on Asia.
- Technology Management (MOT): Programs focus on innovation, technological development, and business strategy, especially in engineering and technology-driven industries.
8. Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Applied Chemistry: Known for advancements in catalysis, synthetic organic chemistry, and chemical process engineering.
- Biochemical Engineering: Focuses on biotechnology, biofuels, and sustainable chemical processes.
- Green Chemistry: Research into environmentally friendly chemical processes and renewable materials.
9. Life Sciences and Biotechnology
- Molecular and Cellular Biology: Advanced research in genetics, molecular biology, and cell signaling.
- Neuroscience: Specializes in brain research, cognitive science, and neurodegenerative disease therapies.
- Biotechnology: Applications in medical, agricultural, and environmental biotechnology, including genome editing and protein engineering.
10. Physics and Space Science
- Quantum Physics and Condensed Matter Physics: Leading research in quantum computing, nanophotonics, and superconductivity.
- Astrophysics: Focus on space science, cosmology, and astrophysical phenomena.
11. Law and Policy
- Environmental Law: Focuses on laws and policies related to sustainability, climate change, and natural resource management.
- International Law: Strong programs in human rights, trade law, and international treaties.
12. Architecture and Urban Planning
- Sustainable Architecture: Research in eco-friendly and energy-efficient building designs.
- Urban and Regional Planning: Emphasis on disaster resilience, smart cities, and sustainable urban development.
Specialized Graduate Programs:
- IMAT Program: International Master’s Program in Environmental Management and Technology.
- IMAP Program: International Master’s Program in Asia-Pacific Studies, which offers interdisciplinary courses in history, culture, politics, and economics of the region.
Kyushu University offers a diverse array of programs across multiple fields of study, catering to both undergraduate and graduate students. Here’s an overview of the main programs available at Kyushu University:
1. Undergraduate Programs
Kyushu University offers various undergraduate programs across its multiple faculties:
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Faculty of Humanities:
- Japanese Studies
- Linguistics
- History
- Philosophy
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Faculty of Law:
- Law
- Political Science
- International Relations
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Faculty of Economics:
- Economics
- Business Administration
- Accounting
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Faculty of Science:
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Mathematics
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Faculty of Engineering:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Computer Science
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Faculty of Medicine:
- Medicine (Medical School)
- Health Sciences
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Faculty of Agriculture:
- Agricultural Science
- Food Science and Biotechnology
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Faculty of Design:
- Architecture
- Industrial Design
- Visual Communication
2. Graduate Programs
Kyushu University offers a wide range of graduate programs, including master's and doctoral degrees:
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Graduate School of Humanities:
- Cultural Studies
- Japanese Literature
- Global Studies
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Graduate School of Law:
- Law
- Legal Studies
- International Business Law
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Graduate School of Economics:
- Economic Theory
- International Economics
- Development Economics
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Graduate School of Science:
- Advanced Physics
- Advanced Chemistry
- Biological Sciences
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Graduate School of Engineering:
- Advanced Mechanical Engineering
- Advanced Electrical and Electronic Engineering
- Materials Science and Engineering
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Graduate School of Medicine:
- Medical Research
- Health Sciences
- Biomedical Sciences
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Graduate School of Agriculture:
- Agricultural Science
- Food Science and Technology
- Environmental Studies
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Graduate School of Design:
- Architecture and Urban Design
- Industrial Design
3. International Programs
Kyushu University offers several programs designed specifically for international students, often taught in English:
-
International Master’s Program in Environmental Management and Technology (IMAT):
- Focuses on sustainable development and environmental management practices.
-
International Master’s Program in Asia-Pacific Studies (IMAP):
- Covers social sciences, culture, and international relations in the Asia-Pacific region.
-
Global 30 Programs:
- Various undergraduate and graduate programs that are fully taught in English, attracting international students from around the world.
4. Research Institutes and Centers
Kyushu University is home to various research institutes that focus on cutting-edge research in specialized fields:
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International Institute for Carbon-Neutral Energy Research (I2CNER):
- Focuses on sustainable energy solutions and technologies.
-
Institute of Advanced Biomedical Engineering and Science (ABES):
- Concentrates on medical and biological research, including regenerative medicine.
-
Research Institute for Applied Mechanics (RIAM):
- Specializes in applied mechanics and materials research.
5. Special Programs and Initiatives
- Dual Degree Programs: Kyushu University collaborates with several international institutions to offer dual degree programs that allow students to earn degrees from both universities.
- Research Opportunities: Graduate students often have access to various research grants and opportunities to work on international research projects.
Kyushu University has a number of distinguished professors recognized for their contributions to research and academia. Here are some of the notable faculty members known for their expertise and achievements:
1. Shinya Yamanaka
- Field: Medicine / Stem Cell Research
- Notable Achievement: Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2012 for his discovery of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS cells).
- Current Position: While Yamanaka is primarily associated with Kyoto University, he has collaborated with researchers at Kyushu University, especially in the field of regenerative medicine.
2. Ryōji Noyori
- Field: Chemistry
- Notable Achievement: Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2001 for his work on chirally catalyzed hydrogenation reactions.
- Current Position: While he is mainly associated with Nagoya University, Noyori has had collaborative ties with researchers from Kyushu University.
3. Masanobu Shimizu
- Field: Physics
- Current Position: Professor at Kyushu University, known for his work in condensed matter physics and nanotechnology.
- Research Interests: Focuses on material properties at the nanoscale, contributing to advancements in electronic and photonic materials.
4. Kazunori Nishida
- Field: Medicine / Neuroscience
- Current Position: Professor at Kyushu University’s Graduate School of Medical Sciences.
- Research Interests: Known for his research in neural mechanisms of sensory processing and neurodegenerative diseases.
5. Yoshihiko Takahashi
- Field: Agricultural Science
- Current Position: Professor in the Faculty of Agriculture.
- Research Interests: Focuses on plant breeding and genetic engineering, contributing to advancements in agricultural biotechnology.
6. Keisuke Kinoshita
- Field: Electrical Engineering / Robotics
- Current Position: Professor at the Faculty of Engineering.
- Research Interests: Specializes in robotics and control systems, working on innovative technologies in autonomous systems.
7. Atsushi Fukuda
- Field: Environmental Science
- Current Position: Professor in the Graduate School of Engineering.
- Research Interests: Focuses on sustainable energy technologies and environmental management.
8. Takashi Nakanishi
- Field: Mechanical Engineering
- Current Position: Professor at the Faculty of Engineering.
- Research Interests: Known for his work in fluid mechanics and thermodynamics, particularly in renewable energy applications.
9. Kazuo Kuroda
- Field: Business / Management
- Current Position: Professor in the Graduate School of Economics.
- Research Interests: Focuses on international business, economic development, and corporate strategy.
10. Hiroshi Kato
- Field: Chemistry
- Current Position: Professor at the Graduate School of Science.
- Research Interests: Specializes in organic chemistry and catalysis, making significant contributions to chemical synthesis techniques.
Kyushu University is associated with a number of Nobel Prize winners, especially in scientific fields. While the university itself has not been the direct recipient of Nobel Prizes, several alumni, faculty, and researchers connected to Kyushu University have been awarded the prestigious honor. Below are some notable Nobel Prize recipients with ties to Kyushu University:
1. Shinya Yamanaka (Physiology or Medicine, 2012)
- Award: Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2012.
- Contribution: For his discovery of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS cells), which revolutionized regenerative medicine by making it possible to generate stem cells from adult cells.
- Kyushu University Connection: Yamanaka completed his clinical training in orthopedic surgery at Kyushu University before moving into research.
2. Ryōji Noyori (Chemistry, 2001)
- Award: Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2001 (shared with K. Barry Sharpless and William S. Knowles).
- Contribution: For his work on chirally catalyzed hydrogenation reactions, which have been widely applied in the production of pharmaceuticals and other important chemicals.
- Kyushu University Connection: While Noyori's major work was carried out at Nagoya University, he has had a collaborative relationship with researchers at Kyushu University in the field of organic chemistry.
3. Other Notable Research and Contributions
While not directly Nobel Prize winners, Kyushu University has been home to leading research in areas like materials science, renewable energy, and medicine, contributing to the broader scientific community in ways that have led to breakthroughs recognized by Nobel Prizes elsewhere.
Founded in 1911, Kyushu University is a leading research-oriented institute of higher education in Fukuoka, which is historically renowned as Japan\'s gateway to Asia for profound cultural and economin interactions due to its geographical proximity to continental Asia.
The University celebrated its first centennial anniversary in 2011 and is taking bold steps forward into its second century. With an enrollment of nearly 20,000 students, it is comprised of 12 undergraduate schools, 18 graduate schools, 17 faculties, 5 research institutes, and a hospital, as well as over 50 affiliated research centers. The University\'s 12th undergraduate school, the School of Interdisciplinary Science and Innovation was launched in April 2018. The international student population is more than 2,200, representing about 100 countries and regions and reflecting our steadfast commitment to internationalization.
The new, state-of-art Ito Campus is designed for the development of next-generation technologies, with particular focus on the research center that reflects our high regard for the preservation of green areas, groundwater, landscape, and historical remains, and has achieved harmonious co-existence with its surrounding natural environment.
Kyushu University is one of Japan's most prestigious national universities and is famous for its contributions to research, education, and innovation. Founded in 1911, it is located in Fukuoka, on the island of Kyushu, and is widely recognized for several key areas:
1. Strong Research in Science and Engineering
- Cutting-Edge Research: Kyushu University is known for its advanced research in engineering, materials science, applied chemistry, and energy technology. Its International Institute for Carbon-Neutral Energy Research (I2CNER) is globally respected for developing sustainable energy solutions and conducting advanced research in climate change, energy conservation, and hydrogen energy.
- Advanced Materials Science: The university has a strong reputation in nanotechnology, carbon materials, and advanced manufacturing technologies, contributing to innovations in industry and science.
2. Medicine and Health Sciences
- Kyushu University has a top-ranking School of Medicine and a cutting-edge Hospital. It is well-known for its research in immunology, genomics, transplant surgery, and regenerative medicine.
- Cancer Research: The university has made significant advances in oncology and cancer treatment, with a focus on personalized medicine and immune therapies.
3. International Collaboration and Global Presence
- International Programs: Kyushu University has numerous partnerships with universities around the world and offers several programs taught in English to attract international students. The Kyushu University International Programs (IMAP/IMAT) offer global educational opportunities, particularly in fields like environmental engineering, management, and Japanese studies.
- It is part of the Top Global University Project, a Japanese government initiative to increase the global presence of Japanese universities.
4. Innovation in Sustainability and Environmental Sciences
- Kyushu University is a leader in environmental science, particularly in research on sustainable development, renewable energy, and climate change. The university is known for promoting eco-friendly urban development and cutting-edge research on carbon neutrality.
- Wind Engineering and Coastal Engineering: Research in civil engineering and environmental engineering has led to advances in disaster prevention and environmental protection, particularly relevant given Japan's susceptibility to natural disasters.
5. Social Sciences and Japanese Studies
- The university has strong programs in Japanese studies, Asian studies, and international relations, attracting scholars from around the world who are interested in Japan’s history, culture, and political economy.
- Its Graduate School of Law and School of Letters are well-respected for producing high-quality research and graduates who excel in fields like law, politics, economics, and cultural studies.
6. High-Quality Education in Agriculture and Food Science
- Kyushu University has one of Japan’s top programs in agricultural science and food science, with a particular focus on the biotechnology and environmental sustainability of agriculture.
- The Faculty of Agriculture is renowned for research into plant science, crop genetics, and biotechnology, and has strong ties to Japan’s food industry.
7. History and Tradition
- As one of Japan’s seven former Imperial Universities, Kyushu University has a long-standing tradition of academic excellence and prestige, particularly in science, engineering, and medicine. It remains one of the leading universities in Japan and Asia, contributing to its prestigious reputation both nationally and internationally.
8. Nobel Laureates and Distinguished Alumni
- Shinya Yamanaka, who won the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2012 for his work on induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS cells), completed part of his education at Kyushu University.
- The university has produced many distinguished alumni who have made significant contributions to science, medicine, politics, and industry both in Japan and globally.
9. Engineering and Technology Partnerships with Industry
- Located in Fukuoka, one of Japan’s fastest-growing cities, Kyushu University has strong connections to the automobile industry, electronics, and manufacturing sectors, including partnerships with companies like Toyota, Sony, and Hitachi.
- Its School of Engineering is a top destination for research in robotics, aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, and artificial intelligence.
10. Campus and Infrastructure
- The Ito Campus is one of the largest university campuses in Japan and is equipped with state-of-the-art research facilities. The campus is designed with sustainability in mind and is a hub for international conferences, workshops, and collaborative projects.