Doshisha University

Doshisha University, located in Kyoto, Japan, is a private institution of higher learning established in 1875. It is recognized as one of Japan's oldest private universities and is a member of the "Kan-Kan-Dō-Ritsu" group, comprising four leading private universities in the Kansai region. Doshisha University emphasizes a founding spirit of Christianity, liberalism, and internationalism, aiming to cultivate individuals with a strong sense of conscience and an international perspective.

Academics

Doshisha University offers a wide array of academic programs across 14 faculties and 16 graduate schools. The university promotes unique research activities in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, often transcending departmental and disciplinary boundaries. Notable graduate programs include Theology, Letters, Psychology, Business, Global Studies, Law, Economics, Commerce, Policy and Management, Culture and Information Science, Science and Engineering, Life and Medical Sciences, Health and Sports Science, and Social Studies. The university's libraries house over 2.5 million volumes, supporting extensive academic pursuits.

International Students

Doshisha University actively welcomes international students, with approximately 1,100 students from outside Japan among its 28,000-strong student body. The university provides various support services to help international students acclimate to life in Japan, including information on housing, part-time work, scholarships, counseling, and extracurricular activities. English-taught degree programs are available at both undergraduate and graduate levels, such as the Institute for the Liberal Arts Program, International Science and Technology Course, Global MBA/Global Business and Management Studies, and programs within the Graduate School of Global Studies. A Peer Support Program connects new international students with current Doshisha students for assistance.

Campus & Location

Doshisha University has two main campuses: Imadegawa in central Kyoto and Kyotanabe in southern Kyoto. The Imadegawa Campus, the university's birthplace, features an elegant blend of historic red-brick buildings and modern architecture, with five buildings designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan, including Doshisha Chapel and Clark Memorial Hall. Located next to Shokoku-ji Temple and overlooking the Kyoto Imperial Palace, this campus is primarily for liberal arts, business, theology, and law faculties. The Kyotanabe Campus, situated in Kansai Science City, primarily serves the science and engineering faculties with modern facilities. Kyoto itself offers a rich cultural heritage and a pleasant pace of life, with convenient transportation and numerous attractions.

Career Outcomes

Doshisha University boasts a high employment rate, with 99.7% for 2025 graduates. The Career Center provides comprehensive support for students' job hunting activities, including vocational counseling, guidance, seminars, and information on employment and companies. Special support is available for international students, with the Career Center receiving solicitations for about 600 job openings annually specifically for them. Internship programs are also offered across all majors and years to provide practical experience and aid in career planning. The university also has employment support centers in Osaka and Tokyo, connecting students with companies in those regions.