Messages from Dean

While the advancement of science and technology has led to hopes for the realization of a sustainable society, we are still confronted with persistent global issues such as the rise of nationalism, the deepening of social polarization, global warming, and increasingly frequent natural disasters. The impacts of the pandemic, ongoing international conflicts— such as the war in Ukraine and the Middle East—have threatened the lives and safety of people around the world. The growing threats of natural disasters and armed conflict affect people in both developed and developing regions alike.

“International Studies and Regional Development” is more critical than ever in our time. The Graduate School of International Studies and Regional Development is committed to addressing the complex issues facing contemporary society from both international and regional perspectives, and to fostering individuals who can contribute both academically and practically. Our curriculum spans a wide range of fields including international politics, international economics, international development, and the political economy of Northeast Asia. Students are encouraged not only to deepen their understanding in their own areas of interest but also to be intellectually stimulated by perspectives from other disciplines.

The graduate school is home to a diverse faculty with rich expertise and experience. We provide strong support for each student’s research activities through interdisciplinary, attentive supervision. In addition to writing their master’s thesis, students receive guidance on research planning and presentation. We also place a strong emphasis on cultivating globally relevant research skills, such as strengthening academic English communication. It is even possible to complete the entire program and earn a master’s degree in English. The ability to integrate a global outlook with regionally grounded, practical knowledge is one of the unique strengths of our program.

Since its establishment in 2015, our graduate school has actively welcomed students, working professionals, and international students from both within Japan and abroad. Many of our graduates are now active in government, education, media and business. We are committed to supporting each student in discovering their own research questions and challenging the frontiers of knowledge. We warmly welcome all motivated students to join us!