Deep Cultural Roots: Japan is known for its profound cultural history, including traditional arts such as calligraphy, tea ceremony, ikebana (flower arranging), and more. This provides a unique environment for students to study and engage with these practices.
Diverse Artistic Traditions: Japan's artistic landscape is diverse, encompassing everything from ancient pottery and woodblock prints (ukiyo-e) to contemporary manga and anime.
Renowned Institutions: Japan is home to some of the top universities globally, such as the University of Tokyo, Kyoto University, and Waseda University, which offer world-class programs in the Arts & Humanities.
Research Opportunities: Japanese universities provide excellent research facilities and opportunities, especially in fields like history, literature, philosophy, and cultural studies.
Blend of Tradition and Modernity: Japan uniquely blends traditional and modern approaches to art and humanities, allowing students to explore how historical practices influence contemporary art forms.
Interdisciplinary Studies: Japanese universities often encourage interdisciplinary studies, integrating technology, science, and arts, which can provide a more holistic education.
International Environment: Japan attracts students from all over the world, offering a multicultural environment that enriches the learning experience.
Global Networks: Studying in Japan can open doors to global networks, including connections with leading scholars and professionals in the field of arts and humanities.
Language and Literature: Japan is an excellent place to study East Asian languages and literature, especially Japanese, which is essential for deep cultural immersion.
Field Studies: The opportunity to visit historical sites, museums, and cultural centers as part of the curriculum enhances practical learning.
Cultural Industries: Japan is a global leader in various cultural industries, including film, animation, design, and fashion, providing ample career opportunities for graduates.
Academic and Research Careers: Graduates with a degree in Arts & Humanities from Japan are well-positioned for academic and research careers, both in Japan and internationally.
Government Scholarships: The Japanese government offers various scholarships, such as the MEXT scholarship, which supports international students pursuing studies in arts and humanities.
University Scholarships: Many Japanese universities also provide scholarships and financial aid to international students.
Safe and Welcoming Environment: Japan is known for its safety, efficient public transportation, and high standard of living, making it an attractive place for international students.
Cultural Immersion: Living in Japan provides daily exposure to a unique culture, language, and way of life, enriching the overall educational experience.
University |
Course Program |
Specializations |
---|---|---|
University of Tokyo |
Faculty of Letters |
Japanese Literature, Western Literature, History, Philosophy, Art History |
Kyoto University |
Faculty of Letters |
Asian History, European History, Archaeology, Linguistics, Aesthetics and Art Theory |
Waseda University |
School of Culture, Media and Society |
Cultural Studies, Media Studies, Literary Arts, Global Studies |
Keio University |
Faculty of Letters |
Humanities, Philosophy, History, Art History, Literature |
Tokyo University of the Arts |
Faculty of Fine Arts |
Japanese Painting, Oil Painting, Sculpture, Aesthetics and Art History |
Osaka University |
School of Letters |
Japanese Language and Literature, Cultural Studies, Western History, Philosophy |
Sophia University |
Faculty of Humanities |
History, Philosophy, Literature, Cultural Studies |
Nagoya University |
School of Humanities |
Cultural Heritage, Japanese History, Art History, Literature |
Ritsumeikan University |
College of Letters |
Japanese Literature, International Culture, History, Cultural Studies |
Kobe University |
Faculty of Letters |
Philosophy, History, Art History, Japanese Literature |
University |
Course Program |
Details for International Students |
---|---|---|
University of Tokyo |
Global Faculty of Letters |
English-taught courses, Japanese language support, exchange programs |
Kyoto University |
Global 30 Program in Humanities |
English-taught undergraduate and graduate programs, Japanese language courses |
Waseda University |
School of International Liberal Studies |
English-taught courses, cross-cultural exchange opportunities, extensive support for international students |
Sophia University |
Faculty of Liberal Arts |
English-taught courses, International faculty, extensive Japanese language courses |
Tokyo University of the Arts |
Graduate School of Global Arts |
Programs designed for international collaboration, English-taught Master's and Ph.D. courses |
Keio University |
International Program in Humanities |
English-taught courses, Global learning environment, Japanese language support |
Osaka University |
Center for Japanese Language and Culture |
Courses in Japanese culture, language, and humanities for international students |
Nagoya University |
Global 30 Program in Humanities |
English-taught undergraduate and graduate programs, International student support services |
Ritsumeikan University |
College of International Relations (Liberal Arts) |
English-taught programs, focus on global studies and cultural exchange |
Kobe University |
Global Humanities Program |
English-taught courses, interdisciplinary approach, Japanese language support |
University |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (per year, USD) |
---|---|---|---|
University of Tokyo |
Faculty of Letters |
4 years |
$5,000 - $7,000 |
Kyoto University |
Faculty of Arts and Philosophy |
4 years |
$4,000 - $6,000 |
Waseda University |
School of Culture, Media and Society |
4 years |
$7,000 - $9,000 |
Osaka University |
Faculty of Humanities |
4 years |
$4,500 - $6,500 |
Keio University |
Faculty of Environment and Information Studies |
4 years |
$6,000 - $8,000 |
Tohoku University |
Faculty of Arts and Letters |
4 years |
$5,000 - $7,000 |
Hitotsubashi University |
School of International and Public Policy |
4 years |
$4,500 - $6,500 |
University |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (per year, USD) |
---|---|---|---|
University of Tokyo |
Graduate School of Humanities and Sociology |
2 years |
$5,000 - $7,000 |
Kyoto University |
Graduate School of Letters |
2 years |
$4,500 - $6,500 |
Waseda University |
Graduate School of International Culture and Communication Studies |
2 years |
$6,000 - $8,000 |
Osaka University |
Graduate School of Human Sciences |
2 years |
$4,500 - $6,500 |
Keio University |
Graduate School of Media and Governance |
2 years |
$5,500 - $7,500 |
Tohoku University |
Graduate School of Arts and Letters |
2 years |
$5,000 - $7,000 |
Hitotsubashi University |
Graduate School of Social Sciences |
2 years |
$4,500 - $6,500 |
University |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (per year, USD) |
---|---|---|---|
University of Tokyo |
Graduate School of Humanities and Sociology |
3-5 years |
$5,000 - $7,000 |
Kyoto University |
Graduate School of Letters |
3-5 years |
$4,500 - $6,500 |
Waseda University |
Graduate School of International Culture and Communication Studies |
3-5 years |
$6,000 - $8,000 |
Osaka University |
Graduate School of Human Sciences |
3-5 years |
$4,500 - $6,500 |
Keio University |
Graduate School of Media and Governance |
3-5 years |
$5,500 - $7,500 |
Tohoku University |
Graduate School of Arts and Letters |
3-5 years |
$5,000 - $7,000 |
Hitotsubashi University |
Graduate School of Social Sciences |
3-5 years |
$4,500 - $6,500 |
Institution |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (per year, USD) |
---|---|---|---|
Rikkyo University |
Diploma in Cultural Studies |
1-2 years |
$3,000 - $5,000 |
Sophia University |
Diploma in Comparative Culture |
1-2 years |
$3,500 - $5,500 |
Tokyo University of the Arts |
Diploma in Art and Design |
1-2 years |
$4,000 - $6,000 |
Kyoto Institute of Technology |
Diploma in Design and Fine Arts |
1-2 years |
$3,500 - $5,500 |
Musashino Art University |
Diploma in Art Studies |
1-2 years |
$4,000 - $6,000 |
Institution |
Program Name |
Duration |
Fees (USD) |
---|---|---|---|
University of Tokyo |
Japanese Culture and Society |
4-6 weeks |
$1,000 - $2,000 |
Kyoto University |
Introduction to Japanese Arts |
4 weeks |
$800 - $1,500 |
Waseda University |
Japanese History and Culture |
6 weeks |
$1,200 - $2,200 |
Osaka University |
Art Appreciation and Criticism |
4 weeks |
$900 - $1,800 |
Tokyo University of the Arts |
Contemporary Art Practices |
2-4 weeks |
$1,000 - $2,000 |
Japan Foundation |
Japanese Traditional Arts |
1-2 weeks |
$600 - $1,200 |
University |
Notable Art & Humanities Programs |
---|---|
University of Tokyo |
Faculty of Letters |
|
Graduate School of Humanities and Sociology |
|
Japanese Culture and Society (Short-term) |
Kyoto University |
Faculty of Arts and Philosophy |
|
Graduate School of Letters |
|
Introduction to Japanese Arts (Short-term) |
Waseda University |
School of Culture, Media, and Society |
|
Graduate School of International Culture and Communication Studies |
|
Japanese History and Culture (Short-term) |
Osaka University |
Faculty of Humanities |
|
Graduate School of Human Sciences |
|
Art Appreciation and Criticism (Short-term) |
Keio University |
Faculty of Environment and Information Studies |
|
Graduate School of Media and Governance |
Tohoku University |
Faculty of Arts and Letters |
|
Graduate School of Arts and Letters |
Tokyo University of the Arts |
Faculty of Fine Arts |
|
Graduate School of Fine Arts |
|
Contemporary Art Practices (Short-term) |
Sophia University |
Faculty of Humanities |
|
Graduate Program in Comparative Culture |
Hitotsubashi University |
School of International and Public Policy |
|
Graduate School of Social Sciences |
University |
Program Level |
Intake Periods |
---|---|---|
University of Tokyo |
Undergraduate, Graduate, Short-term |
April, October |
Kyoto University |
Undergraduate, Graduate, Short-term |
April, October |
Waseda University |
Undergraduate, Graduate, Short-term |
April, September |
Osaka University |
Undergraduate, Graduate, Short-term |
April, October |
Keio University |
Undergraduate, Graduate |
April, September |
Tohoku University |
Undergraduate, Graduate |
April, October |
Tokyo University of the Arts |
Undergraduate, Graduate, Short-term |
April, October |
Sophia University |
Undergraduate, Graduate |
April, September |
Hitotsubashi University |
Undergraduate, Graduate |
April, October |
University |
Program Level |
Approximate Tuition Fees (per year, USD) |
---|---|---|
University of Tokyo |
Undergraduate |
$5,000 - $7,000 |
|
Graduate |
$5,000 - $7,000 |
|
Short-term |
$1,000 - $2,000 (for the entire program) |
Kyoto University |
Undergraduate |
$4,000 - $6,000 |
|
Graduate |
$4,500 - $6,500 |
|
Short-term |
$800 - $1,500 (for the entire program) |
Waseda University |
Undergraduate |
$7,000 - $9,000 |
|
Graduate |
$6,000 - $8,000 |
|
Short-term |
$1,200 - $2,200 (for the entire program) |
Osaka University |
Undergraduate |
$4,500 - $6,500 |
|
Graduate |
$4,500 - $6,500 |
|
Short-term |
$900 - $1,800 (for the entire program) |
Keio University |
Undergraduate |
$6,000 - $8,000 |
|
Graduate |
$5,500 - $7,500 |
Tohoku University |
Undergraduate |
$5,000 - $7,000 |
|
Graduate |
$5,000 - $7,000 |
Tokyo University of the Arts |
Undergraduate |
$4,000 - $6,000 |
|
Graduate |
$4,000 - $6,000 |
|
Short-term |
$1,000 - $2,000 (for the entire program) |
Sophia University |
Undergraduate |
$5,500 - $7,500 |
|
Graduate |
$5,500 - $7,500 |
Hitotsubashi University |
Undergraduate |
$4,500 - $6,500 |
|
Graduate |
$4,500 - $6,500 |
Program Level |
Eligibility Criteria |
---|---|
Undergraduate |
Completion of 12 years of formal education (equivalent to Japanese high school) |
|
Proficiency in Japanese (e.g., JLPT N2 or N1 level) or English (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS) depending on the program |
|
Entrance examination (specific to the university) |
|
Some universities may require an interview or submission of a statement of purpose |
Graduate (Master's) |
Bachelor's degree or equivalent in a related field |
|
Proficiency in Japanese (e.g., JLPT N2 or N1 level) or English (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS) depending on the program |
|
Submission of academic transcripts and letters of recommendation |
|
Research proposal or statement of purpose |
|
Some programs may require an entrance examination or interview |
Doctorate (PhD) |
Master's degree or equivalent in a related field |
|
Proficiency in Japanese (e.g., JLPT N2 or N1 level) or English (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS) depending on the program |
|
Strong academic and research background, demonstrated through publications or research work |
|
Submission of a detailed research proposal and letters of recommendation |
|
Some programs may require an interview with potential supervisors |
Diploma/Short-term |
High school diploma or equivalent (for diploma programs) |
|
Proficiency in Japanese or English depending on the program |
|
For short-term programs, a specific academic background may not be required |
|
Application form and possible statement of interest |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Benefits |
---|---|---|
MEXT (Monbukagakusho) Scholarship |
International students with excellent academic records applying for undergraduate or graduate programs |
Full tuition, monthly stipend, airfare |
Japan Foundation for United Nations University |
Students from developing countries studying for a master's degree at Japanese universities |
Full tuition, monthly stipend, airfare |
JASSO Scholarship |
International students with good academic standing |
Monthly stipend |
Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) |
Students enrolled in undergraduate or graduate programs in Japan |
Partial tuition coverage, monthly stipend |
Rotary Yoneyama Scholarship |
International students enrolled in a Japanese university or graduate school |
Monthly stipend |
ADB-Japan Scholarship Program |
Students from ADB member countries pursuing postgraduate studies in Japan |
Full tuition, monthly stipend, airfare |
Career Path |
Description |
Average Salary (USD/year) |
---|---|---|
Academia/Research |
Teaching or conducting research at universities and research institutions |
$40,000 - $70,000 |
Cultural Organizations |
Working in museums, galleries, or cultural heritage organizations |
$35,000 - $60,000 |
Publishing and Editing |
Roles in book publishing, editing, and literary agencies |
$30,000 - $55,000 |
Translation and Interpretation |
Translating or interpreting in various fields such as literature, media, and business |
$40,000 - $65,000 |
Media and Communication |
Working in journalism, broadcasting, and media production |
$35,000 - $60,000 |
Creative Industries |
Careers in advertising, film, art, design, and content creation |
$30,000 - $60,000 |
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) |
Working in NGOs, focusing on cultural exchange, education, or human rights |
$30,000 - $50,000 |
Government and Diplomacy |
Roles in cultural affairs, public diplomacy, and international relations |
$45,000 - $70,000 |
Corporate Sector |
Positions in corporate communication, public relations, and human resources |
$40,000 - $70,000 |