Reitaku University

🏫 University Overview

Reitaku University, located in Kashiwa City, Chiba Prefecture, is a prestigious private institution that stands out in the Japanese higher education landscape for its unique focus on character building and internationalism. Founded in 1935 by Dr. Chikuro Hiroike, the university is rooted in the philosophy of "Moralogy" (Moral Science), which emphasizes the integration of moral principles with scientific and academic pursuits. For an international student, Reitaku offers a rare blend of traditional Japanese values and a hyper-modern, global outlook. Just 30 to 40 minutes away from the heart of Tokyo, the campus provides a lush, green sanctuary that fosters a close-knit community, earning it a reputation as one of the most welcoming environments for foreign scholars in the Kanto region.

The university is particularly famous for its small-group education. Unlike many large Japanese universities where lectures are held in massive halls with hundreds of students, Reitaku prides itself on its "Seminar" (Zemi) system. This system ensures that from the first year, students are part of small groups led by a dedicated professor, allowing for deep academic discussion, personalized career guidance, and strong social bonds. For international students, this means you are never just a number; you are an active participant in your education.

📚 Academic Excellence & Faculties

Reitaku University is structured into four primary faculties, each designed to meet the demands of the modern global economy while maintaining the school's core ethical foundations.

1. Faculty of Foreign Studies

This is the university's flagship faculty. It is renowned for its intensive language programs and cultural studies. It doesn't just teach languages; it teaches the history, politics, and sociology of the regions where those languages are spoken.
- English Department: Focuses on high-level communication and critical thinking.
- Japanese Language Program: Specifically designed for international students, this program helps students achieve N1 level JLPT proficiency while understanding the nuances of Japanese corporate culture.

2. Faculty of Economics and Business Administration

In an era of corporate scandals and rapid digitalization, Reitaku’s Faculty of Economics focuses on "Moral Economics." Students learn that business success and ethical conduct are not mutually exclusive. The curriculum covers international business, management, and economic theory, with a strong emphasis on the Asian market. This faculty is popular among international students who plan to work in Japanese companies or start their own ventures.

3. Faculty of International Studies

Launched to address complex global issues, this faculty combines political science, international relations, and environmental studies. It encourages students to think about global citizenship and sustainable development. This is a highly interdisciplinary track where students often engage in fieldwork and collaborative projects with international NGOs.

4. Faculty of Psychology

A newer addition to the university, this faculty explores the human mind through the lens of both clinical psychology and social psychology. It is particularly strong in areas of counseling and organizational psychology, providing students with tools to manage mental health and human relations in diverse workplace settings.

🌏 A Global Hub in Kashiwa

Reitaku University boasts one of the highest ratios of international students to domestic students in Japan. This diversity is not just a statistic; it is woven into the daily life of the campus.

The I-Lounge (International Lounge)

The I-Lounge serves as the heartbeat of international exchange. It is a dedicated space where students from around the world gather to converse in various languages, participate in cultural workshops, and receive support from the international office. It’s common to see a Japanese student helping a French student with Kanji, while a Thai student explains Southeast Asian politics to a local group.

The Global Dormitory (Mitsuwaryo)

One of the biggest advantages of Reitaku is its on-campus housing. The Global Dormitory is specifically designed to facilitate international exchange. International and Japanese students live together in communal units, sharing kitchens and living spaces. This "living-learning" environment accelerates language acquisition and builds lifelong friendships. The dormitory is safe, modern, and significantly more affordable than private apartments in the Tokyo area.

🍱 Campus Life and Facilities

The campus is often described as a "forest campus." It is exceptionally green, with cherry blossoms in the spring and vibrant maples in the autumn.

• The Library: A modern facility with a vast collection of foreign-language books and quiet study zones.
• Dining: The student cafeteria offers a variety of affordable meals, including options that cater to different dietary needs, which is a significant plus for international students.
• Clubs and Circles: From traditional Japanese arts like Kendo and Tea Ceremony to modern dance and soccer, the university has dozens of student-led organizations. Joining a club is the fastest way for international students to integrate into the local student body.

💼 Career Support and Employment

Reitaku University has an impressive employment rate, often exceeding 95%. The Career Center is highly proactive, offering specialized workshops for international students on how to navigate the unique Japanese "Shu-katsu" (job hunting) process.

• Company Partnerships: The university has strong ties with logistics companies, hotels, IT firms, and manufacturing giants in the Chiba and Tokyo areas.
• Internships: Students are encouraged to take part in internships starting from their third year, often receiving academic credit for their work experience.
• Alumni Network: The university’s alumni are known for their integrity and work ethic, which makes Reitaku graduates highly sought after by employers who value character as much as skill.

📝 Admission Guide for International Students

Applying to Reitaku University involves several steps designed to ensure a good fit between the student and the university's philosophy.

Entrance Examination Pathways

1. EJU Route: Most international students apply using their scores from the Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU). High scores in Japanese as a Foreign Language and the General Subject (Sogo Kamoku) are critical.
2. University Entrance Exam: Reitaku also holds its own entrance exams, which usually consist of a Japanese language test, an essay, and a comprehensive interview.
3. Interview: The interview is the most crucial part. Professors look for students who are not only academically capable but also show a genuine interest in the university's moral philosophy and international mission.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Reitaku is generous with financial support. There are several types of aid available:
- Tuition Reductions: Many international students qualify for a 30% to 50% reduction in tuition fees based on academic performance.
- Reitaku University Scholarships: Specific grants for high-achieving international students.
- JASSO Scholarships: The university helps eligible students apply for government-funded stipends.

📍 Location: The Best of Both Worlds

Kashiwa City is often called the "Silicon Valley of Japan" due to its proximity to the Kashiwa-no-ha Smart City project and the presence of top-tier research institutions. For a student, it offers the perfect balance. You have the peace and quiet of a residential city with plenty of parks and affordable shopping malls, yet you are just a short train ride away from Ueno, Akihabara, and Tokyo Station via the Joban Line.

💡 Why Choose Reitaku University?

If you are an international student who wants more than just a degree, Reitaku University is an excellent choice. It is for the student who wants to be part of a community that cares about their personal growth. It is for the student who wants to master the Japanese language while living in a truly global environment. At Reitaku, you will find a faculty that knows your name, a campus that feels like home, and an education that prepares you to be a principled leader in a globalized world.

In conclusion, Reitaku University offers a high-quality, ethics-driven education in a supportive, international atmosphere. Its focus on small-group learning and its commitment to international exchange make it a premier destination for students looking to launch a successful career in Japan or abroad. Whether you are interested in foreign languages, business, or the complexities of the human mind, Reitaku provides the tools and the environment to help you succeed.