Welcome to Osaka University
Hello and welcome to our study abroad at Osaka University presentation dedicated to prospective international students. Here, we’ll introduce our university, study abroad opportunities, and much more.
The Vibrant City of Osaka
Osaka is located in western Japan, while the capital, Tokyo, is in eastern Japan. Osaka neighbors Kyoto and Nara, cities famous for their cultural and historical sites, and Kobe, renowned as a trading port. Osaka City, the capital of Osaka Prefecture, was traditionally considered the economic hub of Japan. Today, it remains a major financial district and the second-largest metropolitan city in Japan, with a population of over 20 million. In the Economist’s Global Livability Index of 2019, the Economist Intelligence Unit ranked Osaka as the fourth most livable city in the world out of 140, with Tokyo placed seventh. This ranking was determined after examining over 30 different factors across five categories: stability, healthcare, culture and environment, education, and infrastructure.
A Legacy of Academic Excellence
Osaka University’s academic roots can be traced back to two academic institutions established in the Edo period about 300 years ago. The first, Kaido Kudo, was founded in 1724 as a place of study for merchants and had an open academic culture. The other, Tekijuku, opened in 1838 and was famous for Dutch studies in medicine and acquiring the latest medical knowledge and technology. In 1931, Osaka University was officially established as one of the seven imperial universities of Japan and later renamed as a national university in 1949. In 2007, Osaka University integrated with the Osaka University of Foreign Studies, adding 25 language majors and 16 minors to its academic education.
Campuses and Facilities
We have three main campuses in the northern part of Osaka and one center in downtown Osaka. The three campuses are close to each other and easily accessible using our inter-campus shuttle buses and other public transportation. Our campuses house a mixture of historical and modern buildings, busy campus life, and tranquil spots surrounded by nature for relaxation and reflection. As one of the best comprehensive research universities in Japan, we provide the world’s most advanced education and research opportunities.
Innovation and Research at Osaka University
Osaka University has embarked on an open research revolution as Japan’s most innovative university and among the most innovative institutions in the world, according to the Nature Innovation Index 2017. The university’s ability to innovate, from the stage of fundamental research through the creation of useful technology with economic impact, stems from its broad disciplinary spectrum. Osaka University is strongly committed to becoming a world-leading innovative university that contributes to social transformation through co-creation while sharing common goals with society. This means achieving innovation by co-creating with society to create knowledge, nurture talent, and pursue the welfare of humankind and a sustainable society.
Cutting-Edge Research and Facilities
Quantum information has emerged as an interdisciplinary field between quantum physics, information theory, and computer science. Quantum biology has emerged as an interdisciplinary field between quantum information and life science. The Center for Quantum Information and Quantum Biology promotes the research of these fields and multidisciplinary studies among them, including quantum physics, material science, quantum chemistry, computer science, and medical and life sciences. Osaka University has proven the clinical applicability of translational research. However, further clinical questions continue to arise during the progress of translational research. To solve these questions, the Integrated Frontier Research for Medical Science Division aims to promote reverse translational research by facilitating collaboration between basic biomedical science and clinical medicine and to create a new academic field.
Academic Programs and Opportunities
We have 11 undergraduate and 16 graduate schools, including social sciences, humanities, law, medical school, dental school, engineering, IT, natural sciences, and more. Some of our highly acclaimed courses include biology, biotechnology, clinical medicine, engineering, material science, mathematics, genetics, neuroscience and behavior, physics, and space science. As a comprehensive research university, we also have various research institutes across a wide range of subjects, such as social and economics research, protein research, laser engineering, datability science, nuclear physics, and quantum information and quantum biology.
International Student Support
Osaka University offers a variety of support services for international students. Global Villages provide new housing facilities with an enjoyable international living environment. The dormitories come equipped with furniture and appliances, allowing students to move in the same day they arrive in Japan. We have three student centers, one on each campus, where students can receive support to adjust to student life, apply for financial aid, participate in extracurricular activities, or learn about employment opportunities. The Career Center provides training in career education, organizes events like job fairs, and offers counseling services to help students find jobs in Japan.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
There are a number of scholarship systems at Osaka University. About 40% of international students utilize some kind of scholarship system. These include the Japanese government scholarship program, honors scholarships for privately financed international students, scholarships from local municipalities, and scholarships from private foundations. Additionally, exchange students from partner institutions can study at Osaka University without the need for entrance and tuition fees.
A Global Network
Osaka University has overseas centers in North America, Europe, and Asia, located in Berkeley (USA), Groningen (Netherlands), Bangkok (Thailand), and Shanghai (China). These centers aim to facilitate and support international exchanges and share research news and outcomes. The university also has over 130 inter-university agreements and 600 inter-faculty agreements with institutions worldwide, providing ample opportunities for student exchange programs.
Conclusion
Osaka University is a hub of innovation, academic excellence, and cultural exchange. With its rich history, cutting-edge research, and commitment to global collaboration, it offers a unique and enriching experience for international students. Whether you’re interested in groundbreaking research, cultural immersion, or academic growth, Osaka University is the place to be.
