Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University

Quick Facts about Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University

• Founded: 2000
• Type: Private Non-Profit
• Students: 5,948
• International: 50%
• Campus: Rural
• Tuition: $14,000 – $19,000/year
• Language: English, Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Malay/Indonesian, Spanish, Thai, Vietnamese
• Intakes: Spring, Fall

About Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University

Academics

APU offers undergraduate programs through the College of Asia Pacific Studies (APS), the College of International Management (APM), and the College of Sustainability and Tourism (ST), introduced in academic year 2023. The university provides a flexible curriculum, allowing students to take courses across different colleges. A key feature is its Japanese-English bilingual education system, where students initially study in their standard language and then develop proficiency in the other, enabling them to receive specialized education in both. Graduate programs are offered through the Graduate School of Asia Pacific Studies (GSA) and the Graduate School of Management (GSM), all conducted entirely in English.

International Students

APU is highly international, with nearly half of its student body and faculty coming from over 100 countries and regions. This diverse environment promotes cultural integration and mutual understanding. The university offers extensive support services for international students, including on-campus housing at AP House for first-year students, visa assistance, and counseling. Numerous student organizations, including cultural weeks and clubs focusing on traditional Japanese arts and sports, facilitate engagement and community building.

Campus & Location

APU's campus is situated in Beppu, Oita Prefecture, on the island of Kyushu in southern Japan. Beppu is famous for its hot springs and offers a pleasant climate. The campus itself is located on a mountain, providing scenic views. While Beppu is a relatively small city, it is a popular tourist destination with various amenities and transportation options.

Career Outcomes

APU emphasizes preparing graduates for global careers, equipping them with advanced language skills, specialized knowledge, and diverse experiences. The university provides comprehensive career support, including career development seminars, internship programs, and an exclusive recruitment platform connecting students with companies seeking APU talent. Many graduates pursue employment in various industries, including wholesale, retail, finance, and civil service, with a notable percentage also opting for higher education or entrepreneurship. The ability to speak multiple languages, particularly Japanese and English, is a significant advantage for APU graduates seeking employment in Japan and abroad.

Information for International Students at Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University

Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University in Beppu, Japan welcomes international students, with 50% of the student body coming from abroad.

• 50% of students are international
• Visa support available
• No on-campus work
• Student housing available (~$50000/month)
• Work placement / internship opportunities available
• Teaching languages: English, Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Malay/Indonesian, Spanish, Thai, Vietnamese

Programs at Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (34 programs)

Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University offers 34 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (12)

• Bachelor of Media and Communication (BA) — 48 months · English · $1,300,000/yr
  This program explores various aspects of media and communication, including digital media, journalism, public relations, and cross-cultural communication, preparing students for careers in the media industry.
  Field: Media and Communication
  Career outcomes: Journalist, Public Relations Specialist, Content Creator, Marketing Communications Manager, Social Media Manager
• Bachelor of Information Science and Technology (BSc) — 48 months · English · $1,300,000/yr · STEM
  This program provides a strong foundation in information technology, data science, and computer systems, preparing students for careers in the rapidly evolving tech industry.
  Field: Information Science and Technology
  Career outcomes: Software Developer, Data Analyst, IT Consultant, Network Administrator, Cybersecurity Specialist
• Bachelor of Social Science (BSS) (BSS) — 48 months · English · $1,300,000/yr
  Focusing on international relations, development studies, and cultural anthropology, this program equips students with critical thinking skills to analyze global issues and contribute to sustainable development.
  Field: Social Science
  Career outcomes: Diplomat, NGO Worker, Policy Analyst, Researcher, International Aid Worker
• Bachelor of Sustainability and Tourism (BSc) — 48 months · English · $1,300,000/yr
  This program explores the intersection of sustainability and tourism, preparing students to develop and manage environmentally responsible and culturally sensitive tourism initiatives.
  Field: Sustainability and Tourism
  Career outcomes: Sustainable Tourism Manager, Ecotourism Consultant, Hotel Manager, Destination Planner, Environmental Educator
• Bachelor of International Management (BBA) — 48 months · English · $1,300,000/yr
  This program focuses on the complexities of managing businesses in a globalized world, covering topics such as cross-cultural communication, international finance, and global marketing strategies.
  Field: International Management
  Career outcomes: International Business Manager, Export/Import Specialist, Global Marketing Analyst, Supply Chain Manager, Consultant
• Bachelor of Economics (BSc) — 48 months · English · $1,300,000/yr
  This program provides a strong foundation in economic theory, quantitative methods, and policy analysis, preparing students for careers in finance, government, and research.
  Field: Economics
  Career outcomes: Economist, Financial Analyst, Market Researcher, Policy Advisor, Data Analyst
• Bachelor of Global Studies (BA) — 48 months · English · $1,300,000/yr
  This interdisciplinary program examines global challenges and interconnectedness from various perspectives, including politics, economics, culture, and environment, fostering global citizenship.
  Field: Global Studies
  Career outcomes: International Relations Specialist, NGO Worker, Journalist, Policy Analyst, Researcher
• Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) (BBA) — 48 months · English · $1,300,000/yr
  This program provides a comprehensive understanding of business principles, management strategies, and global economic trends, preparing students for leadership roles in diverse industries.
  Field: Business Administration
  Career outcomes: Marketing Manager, Financial Analyst, Human Resources Specialist, Consultant, Entrepreneur
• International Business and Management (BSc) — 48 months · English · $1,300,000/yr
  Students learn about global business strategies, cross-cultural management, marketing, finance, and economics, preparing them for leadership roles in international organizations.
  Field: Business Administration
  Career outcomes: International Marketing Manager, Business Consultant, Financial Analyst, Operations Manager
• Sustainability and Tourism (BA) — 48 months · English · $1,300,000/yr
  This program focuses on developing knowledge and skills for sustainable tourism practices, including environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and community development within the tourism industry.
  Field: Tourism
  Career outcomes: Tourism Planner, Hotel Manager, Eco-tourism Consultant, Destination Marketing Specialist
• International Relations (BA) — 48 months · English · $1,300,000/yr
  Students explore global politics, international law, conflict resolution, and human rights, preparing them for careers in diplomacy, international organizations, and non-governmental organizations.
  Field: International Relations
  Career outcomes: Diplomat, Policy Analyst, International Aid Worker, Journalist
• Bachelor of Media and Communication (BA) — 48 months · English · $1,300,000/yr
  This program explores various aspects of media and communication, including digital media, journalism, public relations, and cross-cultural communication, preparing students for careers in the media industry.
  Field: Media and Communication
  Career outcomes: Journalist, Public Relations Specialist, Content Creator, Marketing Communications Manager, Social Media Manager

Master Programs (13)

• Master of Science in International Cooperation Policy (MSICP) (MSc) — 24 months · English · $1,400,000/yr
  This program focuses on the theories and practices of international cooperation, development, and peacebuilding, preparing students for careers in international organizations, government, and NGOs.
  Field: International Cooperation Policy
  Career outcomes: International Development Specialist, Policy Advisor, Humanitarian Aid Worker, Researcher, Diplomat
• Master of Science in Tourism and Hospitality (MSc) — 24 months · English · $1,400,000/yr
  This master's program provides advanced knowledge and research skills in tourism and hospitality management, focusing on sustainable practices, innovation, and global trends within the industry.
  Field: Tourism and Hospitality
  Career outcomes: Tourism Director, Hotel General Manager, Hospitality Consultant, Academic Researcher, Event Manager
• Master of Science in Information Science and Technology (MSc) — 24 months · English · $1,400,000/yr · STEM
  This master's program offers advanced study in areas such as artificial intelligence, big data analytics, and cybersecurity, equipping students with specialized skills for cutting-edge technological roles.
  Field: Information Science and Technology
  Career outcomes: AI Engineer, Data Scientist, Cybersecurity Analyst, IT Project Manager, Software Architect
• Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 24 months · English · $1,400,000/yr
  This intensive MBA program offers advanced knowledge in strategic management, finance, marketing, and organizational behavior, preparing graduates for executive positions in global enterprises.
  Field: Business Administration
  Career outcomes: CEO, CFO, Marketing Director, Operations Manager, Management Consultant
• Master of Finance (MSc) — 24 months · English · $1,400,000/yr · STEM
  This program offers specialized knowledge in financial markets, corporate finance, investment management, and financial risk, preparing graduates for advanced roles in the financial industry.
  Field: Finance
  Career outcomes: Investment Banker, Portfolio Manager, Financial Consultant, Risk Manager, Quantitative Analyst
• Master of Tourism and Hospitality (MA) — 24 months · English · $1,400,000/yr
  This program offers advanced knowledge in tourism management, hospitality operations, and sustainable tourism development, preparing graduates for leadership roles in the global tourism industry.
  Field: Tourism and Hospitality
  Career outcomes: Tourism Director, Hotel General Manager, Event Manager, Tourism Policy Analyst, Consultant
• Master of Information Science and Technology (MSc) — 24 months · English · $1,400,000/yr · STEM
  This advanced program offers specialized knowledge in areas such as artificial intelligence, big data analytics, and cybersecurity, preparing graduates for leadership roles in technology and innovation.
  Field: Information Science and Technology
  Career outcomes: AI Engineer, Data Scientist, IT Manager, Cybersecurity Analyst, Software Architect
• Master of Environmental Management (MSc) — 24 months · English · $1,400,000/yr · STEM
  This program focuses on environmental science, policy, and management, equipping students with the skills to address complex environmental challenges and promote sustainable practices.
  Field: Environmental Management
  Career outcomes: Environmental Consultant, Sustainability Manager, Conservation Scientist, Environmental Policy Analyst, NGO Program Manager
• Master of Asia Pacific Studies (MA) — 24 months · English · $1,400,000/yr
  This interdisciplinary program provides an in-depth understanding of the political, economic, social, and cultural dynamics of the Asia Pacific region, preparing students for careers in regional affairs.
  Field: Asia Pacific Studies
  Career outcomes: Regional Analyst, Diplomat, Researcher, International Business Developer, Policy Advisor
• Global Management (MBA) — 24 months · English · $1,400,000/yr
  This MBA program provides advanced knowledge in global business strategy, finance, marketing, and human resource management, with a focus on leadership in a diverse international environment.
  Field: Business Administration
  Career outcomes: Senior Manager, Business Consultant, Entrepreneur, Director of International Operations
• Master of Public Policy (MPP) — 24 months · English · $1,400,000/yr
  This program equips students with the analytical and leadership skills necessary to address complex public policy challenges, focusing on policy analysis, implementation, and evaluation.
  Field: Public Policy
  Career outcomes: Policy Analyst, Government Official, Public Sector Consultant, NGO Program Manager, Researcher
• Tourism and Hospitality (MA) — 24 months · English · $1,400,000/yr
  This program delves into advanced topics in tourism management, sustainable tourism development, and hospitality operations, focusing on research and strategic planning in the industry.
  Field: Tourism
  Career outcomes: Tourism Consultant, Hotel Group Manager, Academic Researcher, Government Tourism Officer
• Sustainability Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · $1,400,000/yr · STEM
  This program integrates natural and social sciences to address complex sustainability challenges, focusing on environmental management, resource conservation, and sustainable development.
  Field: Environmental Science
  Career outcomes: Environmental Consultant, Sustainability Manager, Researcher, Policy Maker (Environmental)

PhD Programs (9)

• PhD in International Cooperation Policy (PhD) — 36 months · English · $1,200,000/yr
  This program provides a rigorous academic environment for doctoral candidates to conduct in-depth research on global issues, international development, and peace studies, contributing to scholarly discourse and policy formulation.
  Field: International Cooperation Policy
  Career outcomes: University Professor, International Organization Specialist, Policy Researcher, Government Advisor, NGO Director
• PhD in Tourism and Hospitality (PhD) — 36 months · English · $1,400,000/yr
  This PhD program offers an opportunity for in-depth research into critical issues within the tourism and hospitality sectors, fostering innovative solutions and contributing to academic theory and industry practice.
  Field: Tourism and Hospitality
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Researcher, Tourism Policy Advisor, Industry Consultant, Think Tank Specialist
• PhD in Information Science and Technology (PhD) — 36 months · English · $1,400,000/yr · STEM
  This doctoral program focuses on advanced research in information science and technology, allowing students to make significant contributions to fields like AI, data analytics, and human-computer interaction.
  Field: Information Science and Technology
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Researcher, AI Research Scientist, Data Science Lead, CTO
• PhD in Business Administration (PhD) — 36 months · English · $1,200,000/yr
  This doctoral program offers advanced research opportunities in various business disciplines, fostering innovative thinking and contributing to academic knowledge and practical business solutions.
  Field: Business Administration
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Researcher, Business Consultant, Policy Advisor, Think Tank Analyst
• PhD in Asia Pacific Studies (PhD) — 36 months · English · $1,200,000/yr
  This doctoral program allows students to conduct advanced research on critical issues facing the Asia Pacific region, contributing to academic knowledge and policy development in the area.
  Field: Asia Pacific Studies
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Regional Policy Analyst, Researcher, Think Tank Analyst, International Organization Specialist
• PhD in Environmental Science (PhD) — 36 months · English · $1,200,000/yr · STEM
  This doctoral program offers advanced research opportunities in environmental science, focusing on critical environmental issues, ecological systems, and sustainable solutions.
  Field: Environmental Science
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Environmental Researcher, Policy Advisor, Conservation Scientist, Environmental Consultant
• Management (PhD) — 36 months · English · $1,000,000/yr
  A doctoral program for advanced research in various management fields, including strategic management, marketing, finance, and organizational behavior, contributing to academic and practical knowledge.
  Field: Business Administration
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Researcher, Management Consultant, Chief Strategy Officer
• Asia Pacific Studies (PhD) — 36 months · English · $1,000,000/yr
  This doctoral program offers an opportunity for in-depth, original research on complex issues and dynamics within the Asia Pacific region, contributing to scholarly understanding.
  Field: Area Studies
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Policy Researcher, International Organization Specialist, Think Tank Analyst
• International Cooperation Policy (PhD) — 36 months · English · $1,000,000/yr
  A research-intensive doctoral program focusing on advanced theoretical and empirical studies in international development, public policy, and global governance.
  Field: Public Policy
  Career outcomes: Academic Researcher, Policy Advisor (International), Development Economist, International Organization Expert

Scholarships & Tuition at Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University

Annual tuition for international students: $14,000 – $19,000/year

✅ Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University

• National Ranking: #22 in Japan
• QS World University Ranking: #1001
• Times Higher Education (THE): #1201
• Ranking tier: Unranked
• Research output: High

Campus & Facilities at Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University

• Student housing available
• Sports facilities available
• Disability support available
• Campus type: Rural
• Housing cost: ~$50000/month

Key Highlights

• Global, multicultural learning environment
• Bilingual Japanese-English education
• Diverse undergraduate/graduate programs
• High international student population
• Scenic campus in hot spring city

Accreditation

• AACSB
• AMBA
• Japan University Accreditation Association (JUAA)

Fields of Study at Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University

• Asia Pacific Studies
• International Management

Notable Alumni

• Kosuke Enomoto
• Emil Dardak
• Yuka Ogawa
• Tatsuro Tsuboi
• Soichiro Honda

Frequently Asked Questions about Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University

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