Ritsumeikan University

University Overview

Ritsumeikan University (立命館大学, Ritsumeikan Daigaku) is a distinguished private university located in Kyoto, Japan, with additional campuses in Shiga and Osaka. Founded in 1869 as a private academy and officially recognized as a university in 1922, Ritsumeikan boasts a long history grounded in a spirit of freedom and innovation. It is well-known as one of the 'KAN-KAN-DORITSU' universities, a prestigious group of leading private institutions in the Kansai region.

The university is part of the larger Ritsumeikan Trust, which also includes various primary, junior high, and high schools, reflecting a comprehensive educational philosophy. Ritsumeikan is praised for its balanced approach to education and research, providing a wide range of programs across the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. It has consistently ranked among the top private universities in Japan, particularly excelling in internationalization and interdisciplinary studies.

Ritsumeikan University was selected as a Type B institution in Japan's Top Global University Project (SGU), a government initiative aimed at boosting the international competitiveness of Japanese universities. This designation highlights its dedication to developing global leaders and promoting international academic exchange. The university has a diverse student body, with over 2,600 international students from more than 90 countries and regions, creating a vibrant multicultural campus environment. Its strong alumni network extends worldwide, offering valuable connections and career opportunities for graduates.

Faculties & Departments

Ritsumeikan University offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate and graduate programs structured across numerous colleges and faculties, catering to a wide range of academic interests. Many of these colleges provide specialized courses and research opportunities, some of which are also available through English-medium programs to attract a global student body.

• College of Law: Focuses on legal theory, judicial systems, and contemporary legal challenges in Japan and globally.
• College of Economics: Explores various economic theories, policy analysis, and addresses global economic issues and development.
• College of Business Administration: Emphasizes modern management strategies, marketing, accounting, finance, and entrepreneurship in a global context.
• College of Letters: Offers diverse fields from history, Japanese literature, and philosophy to geography and cultural studies.
• College of Image Arts and Sciences: Explores visual and media expression, including film, animation, digital content creation, and media studies.
• College of International Relations: Analyzes global politics, international economics, cross-cultural communication, and peace studies.
• College of Policy Science: Focuses on public policy formulation, implementation, and evaluation, addressing societal challenges.
• College of Comprehensive Psychology: Covers various aspects of human behavior, cognitive processes, social psychology, and clinical applications.
• College of Sociology: Examines social structures, phenomena, cultural diversity, and issues facing contemporary society.
• College of Science and Engineering: Offers traditional fields like mathematics, physics, chemistry, mechanical engineering, and electrical engineering.
• College of Information Science and Engineering: Specializes in computer science, intelligent systems, media informatics, and cybersecurity.
• College of Life Sciences: Investigates biological phenomena from molecular to ecological levels, including biotechnology and environmental science.
• College of Pharmaceutical Sciences: Trains future pharmacists and researchers in drug discovery, development, and healthcare management.
• College of Sport and Health Science: Focuses on exercise physiology, sports coaching, health promotion, and wellness studies.
• College of Global Liberal Arts (GLA): An English-medium program providing an interdisciplinary approach to global studies, with a strong focus on critical thinking.
• Community and Regional Policy Studies (CRPS): An English-medium program focusing on sustainable community development and policy-making at local and regional levels.
• College of Gastronomy: Explores the science, culture, and business of food and gastronomy.
• College of Data Science: Focuses on data analysis, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and their applications across various fields.

Tuition & Fees

Tuition fees at Ritsumeikan University vary depending on the college and program of study, with science and medical-related fields generally having higher costs due to specialized equipment and laboratory usage. The figures below provide a general breakdown for undergraduate programs. International students are also eligible for various scholarships that can significantly reduce these costs.

• Admission Fee: 200,000 JPY (One-time payment required for all new students upon enrollment.)
• Yearly Tuition (Humanities/Social Sciences): 1,250,000 - 1,350,000 JPY (Typical range for colleges like Law, Economics, Letters, International Relations.)
• Yearly Tuition (Science/Engineering): 1,500,000 - 1,700,000 JPY (Typical range for colleges like Science and Engineering, Information Science and Engineering, Life Sciences.)
• Yearly Tuition (Pharmaceutical Sciences): 2,000,000 - 2,100,000 JPY (Reflects the specialized nature and extensive lab work of the program.)
• Other Fees: Approx. 30,000 - 50,000 JPY (Includes student support fees, insurance, and facility usage fees per year.)

International Student Support

Ritsumeikan University places a strong emphasis on providing comprehensive support for its international student community, ensuring a smooth transition and enriching academic experience in Japan.

• Dormitory: The university offers several housing options for international students, including dedicated international dormitories such as International House, Ritsumeikan Global Gate, and various university-approved private apartments. New international students often receive priority for these accommodations, which are designed to foster cross-cultural interaction and provide a safe, convenient living environment.
• English Programs: Ritsumeikan is a pioneer in offering English-medium degree programs. Notable examples include the College of Global Liberal Arts (GLA) and the Community and Regional Policy Studies (CRPS) program, along with several graduate programs taught entirely in English. For students enrolled in Japanese-taught programs, a growing number of individual courses are also offered in English, providing flexibility and support.
• Scholarships: A wide array of scholarships is available specifically for international students. These include generous Ritsumeikan University tuition reduction scholarships, various Japanese government (MEXT) scholarships, scholarships from the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO), and numerous private foundation scholarships. These financial aid options significantly help offset tuition and living expenses.
• Career Support: The university provides dedicated career services tailored to the needs of international students. This includes workshops on Japanese job-hunting etiquette, resume writing, interview preparation, and opportunities to connect with potential employers through job fairs and company visits. Individual career counseling and a strong global alumni network further assist students in their post-graduation career paths.
• Support Services: The International Center serves as a central hub for international student support, offering assistance with visa procedures, academic advising, cultural adjustment counseling, and organizing various cultural exchange events and activities to help students integrate into university life and Japanese society.

Campus Location & Access

Ritsumeikan University operates across three main campuses, each offering a distinct academic environment and accessibility. These campuses are strategically located in key areas of Kyoto, Shiga, and Osaka, leveraging the cultural richness and economic dynamism of the Kansai region.

• Kinugasa Campus: Located in Kita Ward, Kyoto, Japan. The main campus in north-western Kyoto, accessible by city bus from JR Kyoto Station (approx. 40 mins) or Randen Kitano-Hakubaicho Station (approx. 15 mins by bus).
• Biwako-Kusatsu Campus (BKC): Located in Kusatsu, Shiga, Japan. Situated on the shores of Lake Biwa, accessible by shuttle bus from JR Biwako Line Minami-Kusatsu Station (approx. 20 mins). Home to many science and engineering faculties.
• Osaka Ibaraki Campus (OIC): Located in Ibaraki, Osaka, Japan. A newer campus offering a blend of urban convenience and modern facilities, accessible by shuttle bus from JR Ibaraki Station (approx. 10 mins) or Hankyu Minami-Ibaraki Station (approx. 15 mins).