Nagasaki University

University Overview & Reputation

Nagasaki University, situated in the historically significant city of Nagasaki, is a well-regarded national university in Japan. While not belonging to the elite group of 'Imperial Universities,' it maintains a strong regional presence and is nationally recognized for its research contributions, particularly in medicine, engineering, and marine sciences. It's a respected institution dedicated to internationalization and fostering global perspectives.

Established in 1949 through the merger of several pre-existing institutions, including the Nagasaki Medical College and the Nagasaki College of Economics, Nagasaki University's legacy is deeply intertwined with the city's history, especially the atomic bombing of 1945. This historical context has instilled in the university a profound sense of social responsibility and a commitment to peace and international cooperation. The university's core principles emphasize academic freedom, respect for humanity, and contributions to regional and global development.

Nagasaki University boasts a solid academic reputation, consistently ranking among the top 30-50 universities in Japan. It is particularly renowned for its medical programs, fisheries science, and engineering disciplines. Socially, the university is known for its welcoming atmosphere and strong connections to the local community. Graduates are actively sought after by both domestic and international employers, reflecting the quality of education and research conducted at the institution.

Faculties & Signature Programs

Faculty Breakdown:

• Faculty of Education: Focuses on training educators for various levels.
  • Key Departments: Teacher Training, Educational Sciences, Special Education
• Faculty of Economics: Strong emphasis on regional and global economic issues.
  • Key Departments: Economics, Business Administration, International Economics
• Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences: Renowned for research in drug discovery and development.
  • Key Departments: Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Faculty of Engineering: Offers various specialized programs.
  • Key Departments: Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Information Science
• Faculty of Fisheries: Unique focus on marine resource management and sustainable fisheries.
  • Key Departments: Marine Production Science, Marine Bioresource Science, Food Science and Technology
• Faculty of Environmental Sciences: Addressing critical environmental challenges.
  • Key Departments: Environmental Policy, Environmental Chemistry, Environmental Biology
• Faculty of Global Humanities and Social Sciences: Focus on global issues and intercultural understanding.
  • Key Departments: Global Studies, Regional Studies, Social Sciences
• School of Medicine: Strong clinical training and research opportunities.
  • Key Departments: Medicine, Nursing
• School of Dentistry: Focus on oral health and dental research.
  • Key Departments: Dentistry, Oral Health Sciences

Signature Programs:

• Tropical Medicine and Global Health: The Institute of Tropical Medicine (NEKKEN) at Nagasaki University is a globally recognized research center focusing on infectious diseases prevalent in tropical regions.
  • This program offers advanced research opportunities and training in areas such as virology, parasitology, and immunology.
  • International students can participate in research projects and contribute to the development of new diagnostics, treatments, and prevention strategies for diseases like malaria, dengue fever, and Zika virus.
  • NEKKEN actively collaborates with international organizations and research institutions worldwide, providing students with valuable global networking opportunities.
• Fisheries Science: Given Nagasaki's coastal location and history, the Faculty of Fisheries at Nagasaki University is a standout program.
  • It provides comprehensive education and research opportunities in areas such as marine resource management, aquaculture, and seafood processing.
  • The program emphasizes sustainable fisheries practices and the conservation of marine ecosystems.
  • International students can benefit from hands-on training through research vessels, experimental fish farms, and collaborations with local fishing communities.
  • This program is particularly attractive for students interested in careers in marine biology, fisheries management, and marine conservation.
• Peace and Reconciliation Studies: As a city deeply affected by the atomic bombing, Nagasaki University has a strong commitment to peace and reconciliation.
  • The university offers various courses and research programs related to peace studies, international relations, and conflict resolution.
  • These programs examine the historical and social consequences of war and explore strategies for promoting peace and understanding.
  • International students have the opportunity to engage in dialogue with survivors of the atomic bombing, participate in peace education initiatives, and contribute to research on disarmament and non-proliferation.
  • This program is ideal for students interested in careers in diplomacy, international organizations, and peace advocacy.

International Student Admissions & Life

Admissions Process:

The application process for international students at Nagasaki University typically involves several key steps:

• Applicants must meet the academic requirements for their chosen program, which usually includes a high school diploma or equivalent for undergraduate programs and a bachelor's degree for graduate programs.
• Applicants are generally required to submit scores from the Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU) to demonstrate their Japanese language proficiency and academic aptitude. The specific EJU subjects required vary depending on the program of study.
• In addition to the EJU, some programs may require applicants to submit scores from English proficiency tests such as TOEFL or IELTS.
• Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview, which can be conducted in person or via video conference. The interview aims to assess the applicant's motivation, communication skills, and suitability for the program.

English-Taught Programs:

While Nagasaki University offers a range of programs, the number of degree programs taught entirely in English is relatively limited, particularly at the undergraduate level. However, there are several graduate programs offered in English, especially within the fields of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Engineering, and Fisheries Science. The Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences offers a Master's and Doctoral program in Tropical Medicine. In the Faculty of Engineering, certain graduate-level courses are available in English. Detailed program information and specific requirements are available on the university's website, and potential applicants are strongly encouraged to consult the program details carefully.

Student Support:

Nagasaki University provides a range of support services for international students:

• The International Student Support Office assists students with various aspects of their life in Japan, including visa applications, housing arrangements, and cultural adaptation.
• Academic advisors are available to provide guidance on course selection, research opportunities, and career planning.
• The university also offers counseling services to help students cope with stress and cultural adjustment challenges.
• Additionally, the university provides Japanese language courses for international students to improve their language skills and facilitate their integration into Japanese society.

Campus Life & Diversity:

Nagasaki University has a diverse student body, with international students from various countries around the world. While the exact number fluctuates, typically there are several hundred international students enrolled at the university. The university has a variety of student clubs and organizations catering to different interests, including sports, culture, and academics. These clubs provide opportunities for international students to interact with Japanese students and participate in extracurricular activities. The campus atmosphere is generally welcoming and inclusive, with a strong emphasis on intercultural understanding and global citizenship.

Tuition, Scholarships & Cost of Living

Detailed Cost Breakdown:

• Admission Fee: 282,000 JPY
• Yearly Tuition: 817,800 JPY
• Other Fees (Approximate): 50,000 JPY

Note: Tuition fees may vary slightly depending on the faculty. Science and engineering faculties often have higher fees due to laboratory costs and equipment requirements. These are average figures and should be confirmed on the official website.

Scholarship Opportunities:

Nagasaki University offers several scholarship opportunities for international students:

• The Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship is a prestigious scholarship that covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
• The university also offers its own scholarships, such as the Nagasaki University Scholarship for International Students, which provides financial assistance to outstanding students.
• Additionally, there are various private foundation scholarships available for international students studying in Japan. These scholarships often have specific eligibility criteria and application deadlines, so it is important for students to research and apply early.

Cost of Living:

The cost of living in Nagasaki is generally lower compared to major cities like Tokyo or Osaka:

• Rent for a one-bedroom apartment near the university typically ranges from 40,000 to 60,000 JPY per month.
• Food expenses can be estimated at around 30,000 to 40,000 JPY per month, depending on dietary habits.
• Transportation costs are relatively low, with a monthly student pass costing around 5,000 to 8,000 JPY.
• Overall, a monthly budget of 80,000 to 120,000 JPY should be sufficient to cover basic living expenses in Nagasaki.

Campus Location & Access

Main Campus Environment:

The main campus of Nagasaki University is located in the Bunkyo-machi district of Nagasaki City. The surrounding neighborhood is a mix of residential areas, commercial establishments, and other educational institutions. The campus is situated on a hillside, offering panoramic views of the city and the harbor. The area is relatively quiet and peaceful, providing a conducive environment for studying and research. The campus is easily accessible by public transportation and is within walking distance of several shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. The overall atmosphere is vibrant and student-friendly.

Access Information:

• From Nagasaki Station: Tram Line 1 or 3 to "Daigaku Byoin" Stop (15-20 min)
• From Nagasaki Airport: Airport Limousine Bus to Nagasaki Station, then Tram (60-70 min)
• From Urakami Station: Tram Line 1 or 3 to "Daigaku Byoin" Stop (5-10 min)