Arts & Humanities in Japan

Japan offers 24 Arts & Humanities programmes across 4 universities for international students seeking an immersive academic experience in East Asia. The institutions in this catalogue — Kyushu University, the University of Tsukuba, Hiroshima University, and Nagoya University — are all leading national research universities with established international student communities.

Tuition details are not centrally listed for these programmes; fees are set by each institution and differ by programme level. These universities offer a significant number of programmes in English, particularly at the postgraduate level, making Japan increasingly accessible to non-Japanese speakers. Applicants should review each university's English-taught programme listings alongside Japanese-medium options.

Hiroshima University · Japan

Integrated Global Studies (IGS) - Hiroshima University

The Integrated Global Studies (IGS) program at Hiroshima University is a four-year undergraduate program taught entirely in English, leading to a Bachelor of Arts and Sciences degree. It's designed for international students who want to develop intercultural communication skills, broad-mindedness, and cooperative abilities to contribute to a more peaceful world. The curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary learning across arts and sciences, encouraging students to tackle global issues from multiple perspectives. Graduates are prepared for careers in Japan or abroad, or for further academic pursuits. The IGS program aims to be a 'crossing of boundaries,' encouraging students to move beyond their existing perspectives, institutions, and assumptions. Through a variety of learning experiences including classes, seminars, internships, and study abroad opportunities, students are supported in their personal and academic growth. The program values genuine curiosity and deep thinking about complex issues, fostering a freer perspective for reflection and imagination. Students in the IGS program will gain competence in both English and Japanese. The interdisciplinary approach allows students to develop integrative perspectives and cooperative skills, enabling them to think beyond national, regional, religious, cultural, and linguistic differences. This holistic education prepares students for diverse career paths and academic endeavors.

Frequently asked questions

How much do Arts & Humanities programmes cost in Japan?

Tuition varies by institution and programme — check each university's fee page directly. Japanese national universities typically charge a standardised annual fee, but this can differ for international students.

Which universities offer Arts & Humanities programmes in Japan?

This catalogue covers Kyushu University, the University of Tsukuba, Hiroshima University, and Nagoya University — all major national research universities.

Can international students study Arts & Humanities in Japan?

Yes, all four listed universities have active international student programmes. Some degrees are available entirely in English; others require Japanese proficiency.

What are typical entry requirements for Arts & Humanities programmes in Japan?

Requirements typically include a secondary school or undergraduate degree (depending on programme level), language proficiency in English or Japanese, and in some cases an entrance examination.

How do I apply for Arts & Humanities programmes in Japan?

Applications are submitted directly to each university. Many offer dedicated international admissions processes; consult each institution's international office or admissions portal for guidance.