Nanzan University

Global Citizens for Human Dignity.

📍 Nagoya, Japan 🇯🇵

🏆 #90 in Japan

Quick Facts about Nanzan University

  • Type: Private Non-Profit
  • Tuition: $12,000 – $15,000/year
  • Intakes: Spring, Fall

About Nanzan University

Nanzan University, located in Nagoya, Japan, is a private, Catholic, and coeducational institution with a motto of "Hominis Dignitati" (For Human Dignity). Established in 1946, it is considered one of the most prestigious private universities in the Chubu region, offering a comprehensive education with a global perspective. The university emphasizes fostering individuals who can address global challenges, respect diversity, and contribute to a sustainable society.

Academics

Nanzan University comprises 8 faculties and 6 graduate schools, offering a broad range of disciplines in the arts, humanities, social sciences, and sciences. A notable program for international students is the Modern Japan Program (MJP), which provides an English-medium curriculum for an in-depth understanding of contemporary and historical Japan. This program allows students to specialize in fields such as Japanese society and history, politics, international relations, business, economics, language, linguistics, literature, and arts and culture. The university also offers small class sizes, enabling active student participation and personalized attention from professors.

International Students

Nanzan University actively supports its diverse international student body, which includes over 500 students from approximately 30 countries. The Center for Japanese Studies (CJS) is particularly renowned for its Japanese language education. International students can access various support services, including individual career counseling, assistance with internships, and seminars on job hunting tailored for them. The university also provides dormitory accommodation and arranges airport pickup and transportation for students.

Campus & Location

The university's tree-filled campus is situated in the Yagoto area of Nagoya, a vibrant city in central Japan. Nagoya offers a modern urban experience with a reasonable cost of living and is conveniently located on Japan's main bullet train line, providing easy access to Kyoto and Tokyo. The campus is about a 10-minute walk from Nagoya Municipal Subway's Meijo Line (Yagoto Nisseki Station) or a 15-minute walk from the Tsurumai Line (Irinaka Station). Nearby attractions include the Tokugawa Museum, Nagoya Castle, and Ghibli Park, with opportunities to experience both traditional and contemporary Japanese culture.

Career Outcomes

Nanzan University boasts a high employment rate, with 97% of its 2024 graduating students finding employment. The Career Support Office offers extensive services to help students achieve their career goals, including resume writing assistance and information on companies. The university also participates in the Aigi Career Development Consortium for International Students, further aiding international students seeking employment in Japan. Through programs like the Career Oriented International Collaboration PBL, students gain practical experience and industry connections by collaborating with companies on real-world issues.

Information for International Students at Nanzan University

Nanzan University in Nagoya, Japan welcomes international students.

  • No visa support offered
  • No on-campus work
  • Student housing available

Admissions Requirements for Nanzan University

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Nanzan University:

  • Selectivity: Selective (20-40%)

Programs at Nanzan University (39 programs)

Nanzan University offers 39 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (25)

  • Department of British and American Studies (BA) — 48 months · Japanese
    This program focuses on the language, literature, culture, and societies of English-speaking countries, particularly the UK and USA, developing advanced English proficiency and critical thinking.
    Field: English Studies
    Career outcomes: Translator, Interpreter, English Teacher, International Business
  • Department of Christian Studies (BA) — 48 months · Japanese
    Students explore the history, theology, and cultural impact of Christianity, examining its role in society and its philosophical underpinnings.
    Field: Theology
    Career outcomes: Religious Leader, Educator, Social Work, Non-profit Management
  • Department of Japanese Studies (BA) — 48 months · Japanese
    This program provides an in-depth study of Japanese language, literature, history, and contemporary society, offering a comprehensive understanding of Japan's unique cultural identity.
    Field: Japanese Studies
    Career outcomes: Educator, Cultural Exchange, Journalism, Tourism
  • Department of Spanish and Latin American Studies (BA) — 48 months · Japanese
    Students delve into the Spanish language, history, and diverse cultures of Spain and Latin American countries, fostering cross-cultural understanding and communication skills.
    Field: Spanish Studies
    Career outcomes: International Relations, Tourism, Translator, Educator
  • Department of Philosophy (BA) — 48 months · Japanese
    This program cultivates critical thinking and analytical skills through the study of fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language.
    Field: Philosophy
    Career outcomes: Law, Journalism, Academia, Consulting
  • Department of Business Administration (BA) — 48 months · Japanese
    This program provides a foundational understanding of business principles, including management, marketing, finance, and accounting, preparing students for various roles in the corporate world.
    Field: Business Administration
    Career outcomes: Marketing Manager, Financial Planner, HR Specialist, Entrepreneur
  • Department of French Studies (BA) — 48 months · Japanese
    This program provides comprehensive education in the French language, literature, and the rich cultural heritage of France and other Francophone regions.
    Field: French Studies
    Career outcomes: International Business, Cultural Exchange, Educator, Journalism
  • Department of History (BA) — 48 months · Japanese
    Students engage in the critical examination of past events, societies, and cultures, developing research skills and a deep understanding of historical processes.
    Field: History
    Career outcomes: Archivist, Curator, Educator, Journalism
  • Department of Law (BA) — 48 months · Japanese
    Students gain a comprehensive understanding of legal systems, theories, and practices, developing analytical and critical reasoning skills essential for legal professions.
    Field: Law
    Career outcomes: Lawyer, Judge, Legal Consultant, Public Servant
  • Department of Asian Studies (BA) — 48 months · Japanese
    This program offers an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the diverse cultures, societies, economies, and political systems of various Asian regions, with a focus on East Asia.
    Field: Asian Studies
    Career outcomes: International Business, Diplomacy, Journalism, Research
  • Department of Psychology (BA) — 48 months · Japanese
    Students study the scientific principles of mind and behavior, exploring topics such as cognitive processes, human development, social psychology, and mental health.
    Field: Psychology
    Career outcomes: Counselor, Researcher, Human Resources, Educator
  • Department of Information Systems (BSc) — 48 months · Japanese · STEM
    Students learn to design, develop, and manage information systems, combining technical skills with an understanding of business processes and organizational needs.
    Field: Information Technology
    Career outcomes: Systems Analyst, IT Consultant, Software Developer, Data Analyst
  • Department of German Studies (BA) — 48 months · Japanese
    Students acquire proficiency in the German language and explore German literature, philosophy, history, and contemporary society, gaining insight into Central European culture.
    Field: German Studies
    Career outcomes: Automotive Industry, International Trade, Research, Educator
  • Department of Sociology (BA) — 48 months · Japanese
    This program investigates human social behavior, social structures, and cultural phenomena, analyzing contemporary societal issues and their underlying causes.
    Field: Sociology
    Career outcomes: Social Worker, Market Researcher, Urban Planner, Human Resources
  • Department of Policy Studies (BA) — 48 months · Japanese
    This program focuses on the analysis, formulation, and implementation of public policies, addressing complex societal challenges through interdisciplinary approaches.
    Field: Policy Studies
    Career outcomes: Policy Analyst, Government Official, NGO Worker, Urban Planner
  • Department of Anthropology (BA) — 48 months · Japanese
    This program examines human diversity across cultures and throughout history, focusing on social organization, cultural practices, and human evolution.
    Field: Anthropology
    Career outcomes: Museum Curator, Field Researcher, International Development, Educator
  • Department of Economics (BA) — 48 months · Japanese
    Students learn to analyze economic systems, policies, and behaviors, understanding how societies allocate scarce resources and the factors influencing markets and global economies.
    Field: Economics
    Career outcomes: Financial Analyst, Economist, Policy Advisor, Market Researcher
  • Faculty of Humanities - Department of Psychology (BA) — 48 months · Japanese
    This program provides a foundational understanding of human behavior and mental processes, covering various subfields like cognitive, developmental, and social psychology.
    Field: Psychology
    Career outcomes: Counselor, Human Resources Specialist, Market Researcher
  • Faculty of Foreign Studies - Department of Spanish and Latin American Studies (BA) — 48 months · Japanese
    Students acquire proficiency in Spanish and explore the diverse cultures, histories, and societies of Spain and Latin American countries.
    Field: Spanish Studies
    Career outcomes: Spanish Teacher, International Relations, Tourism
  • Faculty of Humanities - Department of Japanese Cultures (BA) — 48 months · Japanese
    Students delve into the rich history, literature, arts, and social structures of Japan, gaining a comprehensive perspective on its unique cultural identity.
    Field: Japanese Studies
    Career outcomes: Educator, Translator, Cultural Exchange Specialist
  • Faculty of Humanities - Department of Anthropology (BA) — 48 months · Japanese
    Students learn about human societies and cultures, past and present, through fieldwork, theoretical analysis, and cross-cultural comparison.
    Field: Anthropology
    Career outcomes: Researcher, International Development Worker, Museum Curator
  • Faculty of Foreign Studies - Department of German Studies (BA) — 48 months · Japanese
    Students develop fluency in German and explore the rich cultural heritage, history, and contemporary society of German-speaking countries.
    Field: German Studies
    Career outcomes: German Teacher, Automotive Industry, Science and Technology
  • Faculty of Foreign Studies - Department of French Studies (BA) — 48 months · Japanese
    This program provides comprehensive training in the French language and an in-depth understanding of French culture, history, and society.
    Field: French Studies
    Career outcomes: French Teacher, Diplomat, Fashion Industry
  • Faculty of Economics - Department of Economics (BA) — 48 months · Japanese
    This program provides a rigorous foundation in economic theory, quantitative methods, and policy analysis, preparing students for careers in various sectors.
    Field: Economics
    Career outcomes: Economist, Financial Analyst, Policy Advisor
  • Faculty of Global Liberal Arts (BA) — 48 months · English
    This interdisciplinary program provides a broad education in humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, with a strong emphasis on global perspectives and critical thinking.
    Field: Liberal Arts
    Career outcomes: International Relations, Journalist, Educator

Master Programs (10)

  • Graduate School of International Studies (Master's Program) (MA) — 24 months · Japanese
    This program provides an interdisciplinary approach to global issues, focusing on international relations, regional studies, and cross-cultural communication, preparing students for international careers.
    Field: International Studies
    Career outcomes: Diplomat, International Organization Staff, Journalist, Researcher
  • Graduate School of Business Administration (Master's Program) (MBA) — 24 months · Japanese
    This program offers advanced education in business management, leadership, and strategic decision-making, equipping students with the skills to excel in diverse business environments.
    Field: Business Administration
    Career outcomes: Senior Manager, Consultant, Entrepreneur, Business Analyst
  • Graduate School of Information Science and Technology (Master's Program) (MSc) — 24 months · Japanese · STEM
    Students engage in advanced research and development in information science and technology, covering areas such as artificial intelligence, data science, and cybersecurity.
    Field: Information Science
    Career outcomes: AI Engineer, Data Scientist, Cybersecurity Analyst, IT Architect
  • Graduate School of Law (Master's Program) (MA) — 24 months · Japanese
    This program provides advanced legal education and research opportunities, allowing students to specialize in specific areas of law and deepen their legal expertise.
    Field: Law
    Career outcomes: Legal Counsel, Judge, Academic Researcher, Government Legal Advisor
  • Graduate School of Humanities (Master's Program) (MA) — 24 months · Japanese
    This program offers advanced study and research opportunities in various humanities disciplines, including literature, linguistics, history, and philosophy, fostering specialized knowledge and research skills.
    Field: Humanities
    Career outcomes: Researcher, University Lecturer, Archivist, Editor
  • Graduate School of Social Sciences (Master's Program) (MA) — 24 months · Japanese
    Students engage in advanced theoretical and empirical research in fields such as sociology, psychology, anthropology, and economics, contributing to a deeper understanding of social phenomena.
    Field: Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: Social Researcher, Policy Analyst, Consultant, University Lecturer
  • Graduate School of Foreign Studies - Master's Program in English Studies (MA) — 24 months · Japanese
    Advanced study of English language, literature, and culture, focusing on critical analysis and research in specific areas.
    Field: English Studies
    Career outcomes: University Lecturer, Translator/Interpreter, Editor
  • Graduate School of Law - Master's Program in Law (MA) — 24 months · Japanese
    Advanced study in specialized areas of law, including international law, corporate law, and public law, for aspiring legal professionals and researchers.
    Field: Law
    Career outcomes: Legal Counsel, Academic Researcher, Government Legal Advisor
  • Graduate School of Humanities - Master's Program in Anthropology (MA) — 24 months · Japanese
    In-depth research and theoretical exploration of human societies and cultures, with opportunities for fieldwork and specialized study.
    Field: Anthropology
    Career outcomes: Academic Researcher, Cultural Consultant, NGO Program Manager
  • Graduate School of Humanities - Master's Program in Psychology (MA) — 24 months · Japanese
    Advanced training in psychological theory and research methods, with specialization options in clinical, developmental, or social psychology.
    Field: Psychology
    Career outcomes: Licensed Psychologist, Academic Researcher, Organizational Consultant

PhD Programs (4)

  • Graduate School of Humanities (Doctoral Program) (PhD) — 36 months · Japanese
    This program offers advanced doctoral-level research in various humanities fields, culminating in a dissertation that makes an original contribution to knowledge.
    Field: Humanities
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Researcher, Academic Administrator, Expert Consultant
  • Graduate School of Social Sciences (Doctoral Program) (PhD) — 36 months · Japanese
    Students conduct independent, in-depth research in social science disciplines, contributing new theories and empirical findings to their chosen field.
    Field: Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Policy Researcher, Data Scientist, International Development Expert
  • Graduate School of International Studies (Doctoral Program) (PhD) — 36 months · Japanese
    This program prepares students for careers in academia and international organizations through rigorous research on global challenges, international relations, and regional dynamics.
    Field: International Studies
    Career outcomes: University Professor, International Relations Analyst, Diplomat, Think Tank Researcher
  • Graduate School of Humanities - Doctoral Program in Anthropology (PhD) — 36 months · Japanese
    This program supports independent, in-depth anthropological research, leading to significant contributions to the understanding of human cultures and societies.
    Field: Anthropology
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Researcher, Cultural Heritage Specialist

Scholarships & Tuition at Nanzan University

Annual tuition for international students: $12,000 – $15,000/year

Visit the university's financial aid page for the latest scholarship information.

Rankings of Nanzan University

  • National Ranking: #90 in Japan
  • Ranking tier: Unranked
  • Research output: Medium

Campus & Facilities at Nanzan University

  • Student housing available
  • No sports facilities
  • No disability support info

Key Highlights

  • Catholic, coeducational, Nagoya-based university
  • Prestigious Chubu region institution
  • Modern Japan Program in English
  • Strong international student support
  • Renowned Japanese language education
  • Tree-filled campus, vibrant Nagoya

Fields of Study at Nanzan University

  • Humanities
  • Foreign Languages
  • Economics
  • Business Administration
  • Law

Notable Alumni

  • Ryohei
  • Masato Hayakawa
  • Home Made Kazoku
  • Keiko Chiba
  • Yuji Ueda

Frequently Asked Questions about Nanzan University

What is Nanzan University?

Nanzan University is a private non-profit university located in Nagoya, Japan. .

How much does it cost to study at Nanzan University?

Tuition fees at Nanzan University for international students range from $12,000 – $15,000/year.

What are the admission requirements for Nanzan University?

Selectivity: Selective (20-40%).

How many programs does Nanzan University offer?

Nanzan University offers 39 programs: 25 Bachelor's, 10 Master's, and 4 PhD programs across various fields of study.

What is Nanzan University ranked?

#90 in Japan.

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