Kumamoto Gakuen University: A Legacy of Learning in Kumamoto
Located in the heart of Kumamoto Prefecture, Kumamoto Gakuen University (often referred to as Gakuendai or Shōdai) stands as a significant private institution in Japan. Guided by the inspiring motto Shitei dōkō, which translates to "Teachers and students working together," the university fosters a collaborative environment designed to support student growth and academic achievement.
The institution has a deep-rooted history that reflects the evolving educational landscape of Japan. Its origins trace back to 1942 with the Eastern Language Vocational College. Over the decades, it underwent several transformations, becoming Kumamoto Language Vocational College in 1945 and Kumamoto Commerce University in 1954. In 1994, the institution adopted its current name, Kumamoto Gakuen University, marking a new era of diverse academic offerings.
Key Facts
- Motto: Shitei dōkō (Teachers and students working together)
- Established: 1954 (as Kumamoto Commerce University)
- Type: Private University
- Location: Kumamoto, Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan
- Student Body: 7,437 undergraduates and 115 postgraduates
- Faculty: 148 full-time staff members
Academic Structure and Faculties
Kumamoto Gakuen University provides a comprehensive educational experience through four distinct faculties, comprising 11 specialized departments. This structure allows students to pursue expertise in fields ranging from business and economics to social welfare and foreign languages.
Undergraduate Faculties
- Faculty of Commercial Science: Offers majors in Business and Hospitality Management, with a minor in Commercial Science.
- Faculty of Economics: Focuses on Economics, International Economics, and Legal Economics.
- Faculty of Foreign Languages: Provides specialized study in English and East Asian Studies.
- Faculty of Social Welfare: Covers Social Welfare (main), Social Work and Environmental Design, and Child Welfare Environmental subjects, alongside a Social Welfare minor.
Graduate Schools
For advanced studies, the university offers several graduate programs taught in Japanese, including:
- Commercial Science
- Business Management
- Economics
- International Culture
- Social Welfare
- Social Work and Environmental Design
Research and Global Partnerships
Beyond traditional classroom learning, the university is home to the Open Research Center for Minamata Studies. Led by Masazumi Harada, this center conducts vital research into Minamata disease, contributing to important scientific and social understanding of the subject.
KGU also maintains a strong international presence. The university has established formal agreements with 18 partner institutions across nine different countries, facilitating global academic exchange. These partners include notable universities in the United States, United Kingdom, New Zealand, Australia, Canada, Republic of Korea, China, Thailand, and Vietnam.
University Overview Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| President | Ryoichi Koda |
| Total Undergraduates | 7,437 |
| Total Postgraduates | 115 |
| Affiliated School | Kumamoto Gakuen University Fuzoku High School |
| Coordinates | 32°48′N 130°43′E |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the motto of Kumamoto Gakuen University?
The university's motto is Shitei dōkō, which means "Teachers and students working together."
Does the university have an affiliated high school?
Yes, the university has an affiliated senior high school located immediately adjacent to the main campus, which is recognized as one of the top high schools in the prefecture.
What kind of research is conducted at the Open Research Center for Minamata Studies?
The center is dedicated to carrying out research specifically into Minamata disease.
In which subjects can students specialize at the undergraduate level?
Students can specialize in areas such as Business, Hospitality Management, Economics, English, East Asian Studies, and Social Welfare.
How many international partner institutions does KGU work with?
Kumamoto Gakuen University has signed agreements with 18 different partner institutions across 9 countries.