Kyushu University
Innovate. Lead. Global Impact.
📍 Fukuoka, Japan 🇯🇵
🏆 #5 in Japan · QS World #170 · THE World #301 · ARWU #201
Quick Facts about Kyushu University
- Founded: 1911
- Type: Public
- Students: 18,813
- International: 14%
- Campus: Multiple Campuses
- Tuition: $5,800 – $6,100/year
- Language: Japanese, English
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 9:1
- Intakes: Spring, Fall
About Kyushu University
Academics
Kyushu University boasts 16 faculties, 11 undergraduate schools, and 18 graduate schools, covering a vast array of disciplines from humanities to engineering and medical sciences. The university emphasizes a "KIKAN Education" curriculum, introduced in 2014, which focuses on developing fundamental ways of thinking, perspectives, and learning methods to foster active, lifelong learners. Notable programs include those in Applied Chemistry, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, and various specialized fields within its graduate schools. The teaching approach encourages multidisciplinary strengths, with curricula designed to blend humanities with science and promote collaborative learning.
International Students
Kyushu University actively supports its international student community with a range of services. The International Student Center (ISC) provides comprehensive support, including Japanese language learning and cross-cultural counseling. The university offers over 60 international graduate programs and 5 undergraduate programs taught entirely in English, making it accessible for non-Japanese speaking students. A "Support Team System" connects new international students with current Kyushu University students to assist with daily life and integration. Additionally, the university provides an "Online Consultation Desk" for international students to ask questions about life in Japan.
Campus & Location
Kyushu University has six campuses, with the Ito Campus being the largest in Japan, encompassing 272 hectares. Fukuoka, the city where the university is primarily located, is known for its modern and comfortable city life, natural beauty, and excellent public transportation. The Ito Campus itself is designed to coexist with its natural surroundings, featuring historic sites and excavated artifacts open to the public. Fukuoka is frequently ranked as one of the most livable cities globally, offering a vibrant food culture, numerous parks, and convenient access to both urban amenities and nature.
Career Outcomes
Kyushu University provides robust career and employment support services to its students. This includes a dedicated online system for viewing job postings, internship opportunities, and company event information, as well as booking career counseling sessions. The university also facilitates on-campus joint company information sessions and guidance programs. Kyushu University has a strong focus on fostering entrepreneurship, with a track record of supporting startups and plans to significantly increase this support. The university actively engages in industry-academia collaborations, working with private corporations on research projects and technology transfer, which can open doors for graduates.
Information for International Students at Kyushu University
Kyushu University in Fukuoka, Japan welcomes international students, with 14% of the student body coming from abroad.
- 14% of students are international
- Visa support available
- No on-campus work
- Student housing available (~$18500/month)
- Teaching languages: Japanese, English
Admissions Requirements for Kyushu University
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Kyushu University:
- IELTS minimum: 6
- TOEFL minimum: 79
- GPA minimum: 3
- Selectivity: Very Selective (<20%)
- Application deadline: January
Programs at Kyushu University (22 programs)
Kyushu University offers 22 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (7)
- Undergraduate Program in Engineering (BEng) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program provides a comprehensive education in various engineering disciplines, preparing students for careers in research, development, and industry. Students gain strong theoretical foundations and practical skills through laboratory work and projects.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Engineer, Researcher, Consultant - Undergraduate Program in Literature (BA) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
Students engage with classical and contemporary literature, philosophy, history, and linguistics. The program fosters critical thinking, analytical writing, and a deep understanding of human culture and expression.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Writer, Editor, Educator, Archivist - Undergraduate Program in Law (LLB) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
Students gain a comprehensive understanding of Japanese and international legal systems, focusing on civil law, criminal law, and public law. The curriculum emphasizes critical analysis and legal reasoning skills.
Field: Law
Career outcomes: Lawyer, Judge, Legal Consultant - Undergraduate Program in Science (BSc) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
Focusing on fundamental scientific principles, this program offers specializations in fields like physics, chemistry, and biology. Students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for scientific inquiry and innovation.
Field: Science
Career outcomes: Scientist, Educator, Data Analyst - Undergraduate Program in Agriculture (BAgSc) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program explores sustainable agricultural practices, food science, and environmental management. Students learn about modern farming techniques, agricultural economics, and the biological aspects of food production.
Field: Agriculture
Career outcomes: Agricultural Scientist, Farm Manager, Food Technologist - Undergraduate Program in Economics (BA) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
This program provides a strong foundation in economic theory, quantitative methods, and policy analysis. Students explore microeconomics, macroeconomics, and various specialized economic fields.
Field: Economics
Career outcomes: Economist, Financial Analyst, Policy Advisor - International Undergraduate Program (School of Engineering) (BEng) — 48 months · English · $535,800/yr · STEM
An English-taught program designed for international students, offering a comprehensive engineering education with a focus on global perspectives. Students gain foundational knowledge and practical skills in various engineering fields.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Engineer, Researcher, International Project Manager
Master Programs (8)
- Master's Program in Engineering (MEng) — 24 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This advanced program offers specialized study and research opportunities in various engineering fields. Students conduct in-depth research, develop innovative solutions, and contribute to cutting-edge technological advancements.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Senior Engineer, R&D Specialist, Project Manager - Master's Program in Humanities (MA) — 24 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
Students pursue advanced research in fields such as literature, history, philosophy, and cultural studies. The program emphasizes critical inquiry, interdisciplinary approaches, and the production of original scholarship.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Academic, Archivist, Curator, Journalist - Master's Program in Law (LLM) — 24 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
An advanced program for legal professionals and scholars, focusing on specialized areas of law such as international business law, intellectual property law, or environmental law. Students conduct in-depth legal research and analysis.
Field: Law
Career outcomes: Legal Counsel, Academic Researcher, Policy Analyst - Master's Program in Science (MSc) — 24 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
Designed for students seeking to deepen their scientific knowledge, this program involves advanced coursework and significant research in areas such as physics, chemistry, and biological sciences. Graduates are prepared for doctoral studies or research-intensive careers.
Field: Science
Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Lecturer, Data Scientist - International Master's Program in Global Health (MSc) — 24 months · English · $535,800/yr · STEM
This English-taught program addresses global health challenges through an interdisciplinary approach, covering epidemiology, public health policy, and health systems. Students develop skills to tackle health issues on an international scale.
Field: Global Health
Career outcomes: Global Health Specialist, NGO Worker, Public Health Researcher - Master's Program in Medical Sciences (MSc) — 24 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program offers advanced study in various medical and health-related fields, including biomedical sciences, public health, and clinical research. Students engage in cutting-edge research to contribute to medical advancements.
Field: Medical Sciences
Career outcomes: Medical Researcher, Public Health Specialist, Pharmaceutical Scientist - International Master's Program in Asia in Today's World (ATW) (MA) — 24 months · English · $535,800/yr
An English-taught program focusing on contemporary Asian societies, cultures, and international relations. Students gain deep insights into the region's dynamics through interdisciplinary studies.
Field: Asian Studies
Career outcomes: Diplomat, International Relations Specialist, Researcher, Journalist - Master's Program in Economics (MA) — 24 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
This program offers rigorous training in advanced economic theory, econometrics, and applied economics. Students develop sophisticated analytical skills for careers in academia, government, and the private sector.
Field: Economics
Career outcomes: Economist, Quantitative Analyst, Researcher
PhD Programs (7)
- PhD Program in Engineering (PhD) — 36 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This doctoral program is dedicated to advanced research and the creation of new knowledge in specialized engineering disciplines. Students conduct independent, original research under expert supervision, culminating in a dissertation.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: University Professor, Lead Researcher, Innovator - PhD Program in Humanities (PhD) — 36 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
This program supports advanced, independent research in various humanities disciplines, leading to a doctoral dissertation. Students contribute original scholarship to their chosen field and prepare for academic careers.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: University Professor, Researcher, Cultural Heritage Specialist - PhD Program in Law (PhD) — 36 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
The highest level of legal education, this program involves extensive independent research and the production of a significant original contribution to legal scholarship. Graduates are prepared for careers in legal academia or high-level policy roles.
Field: Law
Career outcomes: Law Professor, Legal Scholar, International Legal Advisor - International PhD Program in Integrated Sciences for Global Society (PhD) — 36 months · English · $535,800/yr · STEM
This English-taught interdisciplinary doctoral program addresses complex global issues by integrating knowledge from various scientific and social science fields. Students conduct innovative research to contribute to sustainable solutions.
Field: Interdisciplinary Studies
Career outcomes: Global Policy Advisor, Academic Researcher, International Development Specialist - PhD Program in Science (PhD) — 36 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
A research-intensive program where students undertake significant original research in fundamental scientific fields. The program aims to train future scientific leaders and contribute to the global body of scientific knowledge.
Field: Science
Career outcomes: Academic Researcher, Senior Scientist, R&D Director - PhD Program in Medical Sciences (PhD) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program focuses on advanced medical research, allowing students to explore complex health issues, develop new diagnostic tools, and contribute to therapeutic advancements. It prepares graduates for leadership roles in medical research and academia.
Field: Medical Sciences
Career outcomes: Medical Professor, Clinical Researcher, Biotech Scientist - PhD Program in Economics (PhD) — 36 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
This program trains students to become leading researchers in economics through advanced coursework and the completion of an original dissertation. It emphasizes rigorous analytical methods and empirical research.
Field: Economics
Career outcomes: University Professor, Central Bank Economist, International Organization Economist
Scholarships & Tuition at Kyushu University
Annual tuition for international students: $5,800 – $6,100/year
✅ Kyushu University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of Kyushu University
- National Ranking: #5 in Japan
- QS World University Ranking: #170
- Times Higher Education (THE): #301
- Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #201
- Ranking tier: Top 200
- Research output: Very High
Campus & Facilities at Kyushu University
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Multiple Campuses
- Housing cost: ~$18500/month
Key Highlights
- Former Imperial University
- Comprehensive academic offerings
- Strong international focus
- English-taught programs available
- Supportive international community
Accreditation
- Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
Fields of Study at Kyushu University
- Engineering
- Science
- Medicine
- Agriculture
- Law
Notable Alumni
- Koichi Wakata
- Junzo Shono
- Toshio Shimao
- Kyoichi Katayama
- Toshihiro Nikai
Frequently Asked Questions about Kyushu University
What is Kyushu University?
Kyushu University is a public university located in Fukuoka, Japan, founded in 1911. It has approximately 18,813 students, with 14% being international students.
How much does it cost to study at Kyushu University?
Tuition fees at Kyushu University for international students range from $5,800 – $6,100/year. Student housing costs approximately $18500/month. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for Kyushu University?
IELTS minimum: 6. TOEFL minimum: 79. GPA minimum: 3. Selectivity: Very Selective (<20%). Application deadline: January.
What language are courses taught in at Kyushu University?
Courses at Kyushu University are taught in Japanese and English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.
How many programs does Kyushu University offer?
Kyushu University offers 22 programs: 7 Bachelor's, 8 Master's, and 7 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is Kyushu University ranked?
#5 in Japan · QS World #170 · THE World #301 · ARWU #201.
Does Kyushu University offer scholarships?
Yes, Kyushu University offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does Kyushu University provide visa support?
Yes, Kyushu University provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.
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