Environmental Sciences in Japan
Japan offers 14 Environmental Sciences programmes across 5 universities, with a strong concentration of research-intensive institutions: Nagoya University, Tohoku University, Hiroshima University, Kyushu University, and the University of Tsukuba. These universities are consistently ranked among Asia's top research universities and are well-funded for environmental and sustainability-related research.
Tuition fees for these programmes are around €2,900 per year — low by global standards, particularly given the academic quality on offer. Japan's unique position as a country that has grappled with major environmental challenges — from industrial pollution in the twentieth century to current climate adaptation — gives Environmental Sciences students access to real-world case studies and some of the world's leading environmental engineering and policy research groups.
Civil and Environmental Engineering Program
The Civil and Environmental Engineering Program at Hiroshima University focuses on developing the foundational knowledge and practical skills necessary to address complex societal challenges in infrastructure and environmental sustainability. This program equips students with the expertise to design, construct, and maintain essential civil engineering works while considering their environmental impact and promoting sustainable development. Students will engage with a comprehensive curriculum that covers various aspects of civil engineering, including structural engineering, geotechnical engineering, transportation engineering, and water resource management. The program emphasizes a problem-solving approach, encouraging critical thinking and innovation in tackling real-world issues. Graduates will be prepared for diverse career paths in public service, private industry, and research, contributing to the creation of safer, more resilient, and environmentally conscious communities.
Civil and Environmental Engineering Program
The Civil and Environmental Engineering Program at Hiroshima University's Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering offers advanced studies and research opportunities in a wide range of specialized fields. The program focuses on developing solutions for contemporary societal challenges related to infrastructure development, environmental sustainability, and disaster resilience. Students engage with cutting-edge research across various laboratories, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and practical applications in civil and environmental engineering. The program is structured to provide in-depth knowledge and practical skills. It covers areas from the fundamental properties of structural materials and the design of concrete and steel structures to the complex challenges of infrastructure management and the prevention of geo-hazards. Students will explore topics such as urban planning, global environmental strategies, and the preservation of environmental resources, preparing them for impactful careers in research, industry, and public service.
Environmental Geography
The Department of Frontier Sciences for Advanced Environment offers a Master's program in Environmental Geography, focusing on the complex interactions between human activities and the natural world. This program delves into various research themes, including geographical environments and health, urban environments and crime, spatial economics, and advanced spatial analysis using Geographic Information Science (GIS). Students will gain expertise in understanding and addressing critical environmental and societal challenges from a geographical perspective.
Transportation and Environmental Systems Program
The Transportation and Environmental Systems Program is part of the Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering at Hiroshima University. This program focuses on a wide range of research areas related to transportation and environmental systems, encompassing structural engineering, system safety, fluid dynamics, and ocean sensing. Students engage in advanced research to address complex challenges in these fields. The program aims to foster researchers and engineers capable of contributing to the development of sustainable and safe transportation and environmental technologies. It offers opportunities to work with leading faculty in specialized laboratories, utilizing advanced computational and experimental techniques.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to study Environmental Sciences in Japan?
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Tuition runs at roughly €2,900 per year. Japanese government (MEXT) scholarships can cover tuition and living expenses for eligible international students.
Which universities offer Environmental Sciences programmes in Japan?
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The 14 programmes are concentrated at 5 institutions: Nagoya University, Tohoku University, Hiroshima University, Kyushu University, and the University of Tsukuba.
Can international students apply to Environmental Sciences programmes in Japan?
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Yes. All five universities have dedicated international student support offices and offer some programmes or tracks in English, particularly at the graduate level.
What are typical entry requirements for Environmental Sciences in Japan?
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A bachelor's degree in a science, engineering, or related discipline is usually required. English language proficiency is needed for English-medium programmes; Japanese language skills may be required for Japanese-taught options.
How do I apply to study Environmental Sciences in Japan?
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Apply directly to each university's graduate school admissions office. The MEXT scholarship programme has its own application cycle, typically opening in the spring for the following academic year.