Osaka University

University Overview

Osaka University (大阪大学, Ōsaka Daigaku), often abbreviated as Handai (阪大, Handai), is a leading comprehensive national university located in Osaka, Japan. Founded in 1931 as Osaka Imperial University, its roots trace back to the Kaitokudo merchant academy (founded 1724) and the Osaka Prefectural Medical School (founded 1869), making it one of Japan's oldest institutions of higher learning. Handai consistently ranks among the top universities in Japan and the world and is renowned for its strong research output across various fields, including science, medicine, engineering, and the humanities.

Osaka University has a long and distinguished history of contributing to scientific and technological advancements. It is particularly known for its groundbreaking research in areas such as immunology, materials science, and artificial intelligence. Several Nobel laureates and prominent figures in academia and industry are alumni or faculty members of Osaka University. The university plays a crucial role in the Kansai region's economic and intellectual development.

Handai is a designated National University Corporation and a member of the Top Global University Project, reflecting its commitment to internationalization and fostering global leaders. The university actively promotes collaborations with overseas institutions and provides various programs to support international students and researchers.

Faculties & Departments

Osaka University comprises 11 undergraduate faculties and 16 graduate schools, offering a wide range of academic disciplines. Each faculty is further divided into departments or programs focusing on specific areas of study.

• Letters: Explores human culture, history, and thought through literature, philosophy, history, and linguistics.
• Human Sciences: Focuses on understanding human behavior and society through psychology, sociology, anthropology, and education.
• Foreign Studies: Offers intensive language training and cultural studies in various languages, including English, German, French, Chinese, and Korean.
• Law: Provides comprehensive legal education, covering Japanese law, international law, and political science.
• Economics: Studies economic principles, theories, and policies, preparing students for careers in finance, business, and government.
• Science: Conducts cutting-edge research in mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, and earth sciences.
• Medicine: Offers medical education and training, focusing on clinical practice, medical research, and public health.
• Dentistry: Provides dental education and training, emphasizing clinical skills, dental research, and oral health care.
• Pharmaceutical Sciences: Focuses on the discovery, development, and application of drugs and pharmaceuticals.
• Engineering: Offers a wide range of engineering disciplines, including mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, civil engineering, and chemical engineering.
• Engineering Science: Emphasizes the fundamental principles of engineering, combining theoretical knowledge with practical applications.
• Agriculture: Studies agricultural science, food science, and environmental science, focusing on sustainable agriculture and food production.

Tuition & Fees

The tuition and fees at Osaka University are standardized for all national universities in Japan. While subject to change, the following provides a general overview:

• Admission Fee: 282,000 JPY
• Yearly Tuition: 535,800 JPY

In addition to tuition and fees, students should also budget for living expenses, including accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses. Various scholarships and financial aid programs are available for both domestic and international students.

International Student Support

Osaka University is committed to providing a welcoming and supportive environment for international students. The university offers a range of services to assist international students with their academic and personal lives.

• Dormitory: Osaka University provides several international student dormitories offering affordable accommodation. These dormitories foster a multicultural environment and provide opportunities for students to interact with peers from different backgrounds.
• English Programs: Many faculties and graduate schools offer courses and programs taught entirely in English, catering to international students who may not be fluent in Japanese. The university also provides Japanese language courses to help international students improve their language skills.
• Career Support: Osaka University's Career Center offers career counseling, job search workshops, and internship opportunities to help international students prepare for their future careers. The university also hosts career fairs and networking events to connect students with potential employers.
• International Student Support Office: The International Student Support Office provides comprehensive support services, including visa assistance, housing information, and cultural orientation programs. The office also organizes social events and excursions to help international students integrate into Japanese society.

Campus Location & Access

Osaka University has three main campuses: Suita Campus, Toyonaka Campus, and Minoh Campus. The Suita Campus is the largest and serves as the university's main administrative center. Each campus offers different academic disciplines and facilities.

• Suita Campus:
  • Location: Suita City, Osaka Prefecture
  • Main Faculties: Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Engineering, Engineering Science
• Toyonaka Campus:
  • Location: Toyonaka City, Osaka Prefecture
  • Main Faculties: Letters, Human Sciences, Law, Economics, Science
• Minoh Campus:
  • Location: Minoh City, Osaka Prefecture
  • Main Faculties: Foreign Studies

Access:

• Suita Campus: Easily accessible by Osaka Monorail (Handai-byoin-mae Station) and bus from various train stations.
• Toyonaka Campus: Accessible by Hankyu Railway (Ishibashihandai-mae Station) and bus from Umeda (Osaka Station).
• Minoh Campus: Accessible by Hankyu Railway (Minoh Station) and bus.

The Osaka University website provides detailed access information for each campus, including maps and transportation options.