Okayama University
Okayama University: Innovating Futures, Rooted in Excellence.
📍 Okayama, Japan 🇯🇵
🏆 #14 in Japan · QS World #951 · THE World #1001 · ARWU #501
Quick Facts about Okayama University
- Founded: 1964
- Type: Public
- Students: 13,000
- Campus: Multiple Campuses
- Tuition: $5,500 – $5,800/year
- Language: Japanese, English
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 8.5:1
- Intakes: Spring, Fall
About Okayama University
Okayama University, established in 1949, is a prominent national university in Japan known for its research and academic excellence. It emphasizes interdisciplinary studies and innovation, aiming to create solutions for global issues. With a history tracing back to 1870, it has grown into a comprehensive institution with a strong academic foundation in various disciplines.
Academics
Okayama University offers a wide array of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across 11 faculties and 8 graduate schools. Notable programs include medicine, engineering, science, law, international studies, and agriculture. The university's curriculum focuses on both theoretical foundations and practical applications, fostering critical thinking and collaboration across disciplines. Okayama University is recognized for its research excellence, particularly in medical science, plant biology, and environmental sustainability.
International Students
Okayama University provides extensive support services for international students, including assistance with visas, housing, scholarships, and daily life. The university offers English-taught programs like the Discovery Program for Global Learners, allowing students to explore interests across disciplines. International students can participate in a wide range of cultural and athletic clubs and circles, fostering integration with Japanese students and enriching campus life. The university also provides a tutor system and language partners to aid in academic and daily life adjustments.
Campus & Location
Okayama University's main campus, Tsushima, is situated near downtown Okayama City, just two kilometers from Okayama Station, making it easily accessible. Despite its urban proximity, the sprawling campus features lush greenery, providing a conducive environment for study and research. Okayama Station serves as a major transportation hub, connecting to Osaka in under an hour and Tokyo in about three and a half hours by Shinkansen. Okayama City itself, known as the "Land of Sunshine," offers a mild climate, rich agricultural and marine products, and cultural attractions such as Korakuen Garden and Okayama Castle.
Career Outcomes
Okayama University boasts high employment rates for its graduates, with 98.0% for undergraduates and 92.0% for graduate students. The university's career services, including the Career Development Center, provide employment information, materials, and consultation on career selection and job hunting. Graduates find employment in diverse fields such as wholesale, retail, finance, insurance, telecommunications, and manufacturing, with many also pursuing careers in education or public service. Japan's overall low unemployment rate and stable job market further enhance career prospects for graduates.
Information for International Students at Okayama University
Okayama University in Okayama, Japan welcomes international students.
- Visa support available
- On-campus work allowed
- Student housing available (~$30000/month)
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: Japanese, English
Admissions Requirements for Okayama University
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Okayama University:
- IELTS minimum: 5.5
- TOEFL minimum: 61
- GPA minimum: 3
- Application fee: $17000
- Selectivity: Moderate (40-60%)
- Application deadline: October 17, 2025 (for April 2026 admission), January 13, 2026 (for October 2026 admission)
Programs at Okayama University (55 programs)
Okayama University offers 55 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (39)
- Faculty of Law (BA) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
Students gain a comprehensive understanding of legal principles, judicial systems, and various branches of law, preparing them for legal professions or roles requiring legal expertise.
Field: Law
Career outcomes: Lawyer, Judge, Prosecutor, Legal Advisor, Civil Servant - Faculty of Science (BSc) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
Offering specializations in various scientific disciplines like mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology, this program emphasizes theoretical knowledge and experimental skills.
Field: Science
Career outcomes: Researcher, Scientist, Engineer, Educator, Data Analyst - Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences (BSc) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program focuses on drug discovery, development, and clinical application, equipping students with expertise in pharmacology, medicinal chemistry, and pharmaceutical care.
Field: Pharmaceutical Sciences
Career outcomes: Pharmacist, Pharmaceutical Researcher, Drug Developer, Regulatory Affairs Specialist - Faculty of Science - Chemistry (BSc) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
Students investigate the composition, structure, properties, and reactions of matter, with hands-on laboratory experience and theoretical understanding.
Field: Chemistry
Career outcomes: Chemist, Materials Scientist, Pharmacist, Environmental Scientist - Faculty of Economics (BA) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
This program provides a strong foundation in economic theories, quantitative analysis, and policy implications, preparing students for careers in business, finance, and public administration.
Field: Economics
Career outcomes: Economist, Financial Analyst, Market Researcher, Policy Analyst, Business Consultant - Global Discovery Program (BA) — 48 months · English · $535,800/yr
This interdisciplinary program allows students to explore various global issues from multiple perspectives, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills for a globalized world.
Field: Global Studies
Career outcomes: International Civil Servant, Diplomat, Researcher, Journalist - Faculty of Law - Legal Studies (BA) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
Students acquire a comprehensive understanding of Japanese and international legal systems, developing critical thinking and analytical skills essential for legal professions.
Field: Law
Career outcomes: Lawyer, Judge, Prosecutor, Legal Consultant - Faculty of Science - Mathematics (BSc) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
Students develop a deep understanding of mathematical principles and their applications, fostering logical reasoning and problem-solving skills.
Field: Mathematics
Career outcomes: Mathematician, Data Scientist, Actuary, Software Developer - Faculty of Environmental Science and Technology (BSc) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program integrates scientific and technological approaches to address environmental issues, focusing on sustainable development, resource management, and ecological conservation.
Field: Environmental Science
Career outcomes: Environmental Scientist, Environmental Engineer, Conservationist, Policy Analyst, Urban Planner - Faculty of Economics - Economics (BA) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program provides a strong foundation in economic theory, quantitative methods, and policy analysis, preparing students for careers in business, finance, and government.
Field: Economics
Career outcomes: Economist, Financial Analyst, Market Researcher, Policy Analyst - Faculty of Medicine - Medicine (BSc) — 72 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
A rigorous program preparing students for a career as medical doctors, covering basic medical sciences, clinical training, and ethical practice.
Field: Medicine
Career outcomes: Physician, Surgeon, Medical Researcher - Faculty of Education (BA) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
This program prepares students to become educators, focusing on pedagogical theories, child development, and practical teaching skills across various subjects and age groups.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Teacher, School Administrator, Educational Consultant, Curriculum Developer - Faculty of Education - Teacher Training (BA) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
This program prepares students to become certified teachers for elementary, junior high, and high schools, focusing on pedagogy, subject matter expertise, and practical teaching experience.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Elementary School Teacher, Junior High School Teacher, High School Teacher - Faculty of Science - Physics (BSc) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program explores the fundamental laws of the universe, from quantum mechanics to cosmology, through theoretical study and experimental research.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: Physicist, Engineer, Researcher, Educator - Faculty of Engineering - Mechanical Engineering (BEng) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program focuses on the design, analysis, manufacturing, and maintenance of mechanical systems, covering areas like robotics, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics.
Field: Mechanical Engineering
Career outcomes: Mechanical Engineer, Automotive Engineer, Aerospace Engineer, Manufacturing Engineer - Faculty of Letters - Humanities (BA) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
Students delve into various aspects of human culture, history, philosophy, and literature, developing analytical and interpretive skills.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Teacher, Librarian, Archivist, Writer - Faculty of Engineering - Electrical and Electronic Engineering (BEng) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
Students learn about electrical circuits, electronics, communication systems, and power generation, with applications in various industries.
Field: Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Career outcomes: Electrical Engineer, Electronics Engineer, Telecommunications Engineer, Control Systems Engineer - Faculty of Science - Biology (BSc) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program covers the study of living organisms, from molecular to ecosystem levels, including genetics, physiology, ecology, and evolution.
Field: Biology
Career outcomes: Biologist, Biotechnologist, Environmental Consultant, Medical Researcher - Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences - Pharmacy (BSc) — 72 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
Students gain expertise in drug discovery, development, manufacturing, and clinical application, preparing them for roles in pharmaceutical industries and healthcare.
Field: Pharmaceutical Sciences
Career outcomes: Pharmacist, Pharmaceutical Researcher, Drug Developer - Faculty of Dentistry - Dentistry (BSc) — 72 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program trains future dentists in oral health, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of dental diseases, including extensive clinical practice.
Field: Dentistry
Career outcomes: Dentist, Oral Surgeon, Dental Researcher - Faculty of Engineering - Information Technology (BEng) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program covers computer science fundamentals, software development, data science, and network security, preparing students for the rapidly evolving IT sector.
Field: Information Technology
Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, Network Engineer, IT Consultant - Faculty of Environmental Science and Technology - Environmental Science (BSc) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
Students study environmental issues, sustainable development, and ecological conservation, integrating scientific knowledge with practical solutions.
Field: Environmental Science
Career outcomes: Environmental Scientist, Conservationist, Urban Planner, Environmental Consultant - Faculty of Letters (BA) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
This program offers a comprehensive study of humanities, including philosophy, history, literature, and linguistics, fostering critical thinking and a deep understanding of human culture and society.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Researcher, Educator, Journalist, Civil Servant, Librarian - Faculty of Medicine (BSc) — 72 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This rigorous program trains future medical professionals, covering fundamental medical sciences, clinical skills, and ethical practices essential for patient care.
Field: Medicine
Career outcomes: Physician, Surgeon, Medical Researcher, Public Health Official - Faculty of Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
Offering diverse specializations like mechanical, electrical, civil, and computer engineering, this program provides a strong foundation in engineering principles and practical problem-solving.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Engineer, Researcher, Project Manager, Consultant, Software Developer - Faculty of Dentistry (BSc) — 72 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
Students acquire comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in oral health, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of dental diseases, preparing them for a career in dentistry.
Field: Dentistry
Career outcomes: Dentist, Oral Surgeon, Orthodontist, Dental Researcher - Faculty of Agriculture (BSc) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
Students explore various aspects of agricultural science, including crop production, animal science, food science, and agricultural economics, with an emphasis on sustainable practices.
Field: Agriculture
Career outcomes: Agronomist, Food Scientist, Agricultural Engineer, Farm Manager, Researcher - Faculty of Law (BA) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
Students gain a comprehensive understanding of legal principles, judicial systems, and various branches of law, preparing them for legal professions or roles requiring legal expertise.
Field: Law
Career outcomes: Lawyer, Judge, Prosecutor, Legal Advisor, Civil Servant - Faculty of Science (BSc) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
Offering specializations in various scientific disciplines like mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology, this program emphasizes theoretical knowledge and experimental skills.
Field: Science
Career outcomes: Researcher, Scientist, Engineer, Educator, Data Analyst - Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences (BSc) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program focuses on drug discovery, development, and clinical application, equipping students with expertise in pharmacology, medicinal chemistry, and pharmaceutical care.
Field: Pharmaceutical Sciences
Career outcomes: Pharmacist, Pharmaceutical Researcher, Drug Developer, Regulatory Affairs Specialist - Faculty of Science - Chemistry (BSc) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
Students investigate the composition, structure, properties, and reactions of matter, with hands-on laboratory experience and theoretical understanding.
Field: Chemistry
Career outcomes: Chemist, Materials Scientist, Pharmacist, Environmental Scientist - Faculty of Economics (BA) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
This program provides a strong foundation in economic theories, quantitative analysis, and policy implications, preparing students for careers in business, finance, and public administration.
Field: Economics
Career outcomes: Economist, Financial Analyst, Market Researcher, Policy Analyst, Business Consultant - Global Discovery Program (BA) — 48 months · English · $535,800/yr
This interdisciplinary program allows students to explore various global issues from multiple perspectives, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills for a globalized world.
Field: Global Studies
Career outcomes: International Civil Servant, Diplomat, Researcher, Journalist - Faculty of Law - Legal Studies (BA) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
Students acquire a comprehensive understanding of Japanese and international legal systems, developing critical thinking and analytical skills essential for legal professions.
Field: Law
Career outcomes: Lawyer, Judge, Prosecutor, Legal Consultant - Faculty of Science - Mathematics (BSc) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
Students develop a deep understanding of mathematical principles and their applications, fostering logical reasoning and problem-solving skills.
Field: Mathematics
Career outcomes: Mathematician, Data Scientist, Actuary, Software Developer - Faculty of Environmental Science and Technology (BSc) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program integrates scientific and technological approaches to address environmental issues, focusing on sustainable development, resource management, and ecological conservation.
Field: Environmental Science
Career outcomes: Environmental Scientist, Environmental Engineer, Conservationist, Policy Analyst, Urban Planner - Faculty of Economics - Economics (BA) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program provides a strong foundation in economic theory, quantitative methods, and policy analysis, preparing students for careers in business, finance, and government.
Field: Economics
Career outcomes: Economist, Financial Analyst, Market Researcher, Policy Analyst - Faculty of Medicine - Medicine (BSc) — 72 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
A rigorous program preparing students for a career as medical doctors, covering basic medical sciences, clinical training, and ethical practice.
Field: Medicine
Career outcomes: Physician, Surgeon, Medical Researcher - Faculty of Education (BA) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
This program prepares students to become educators, focusing on pedagogical theories, child development, and practical teaching skills across various subjects and age groups.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Teacher, School Administrator, Educational Consultant, Curriculum Developer
Master Programs (9)
- Graduate School of Humanities and Social Sciences - Cultural Studies (MA) — 24 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
This program offers advanced study in various cultural phenomena, theories, and methodologies, fostering interdisciplinary research skills.
Field: Cultural Studies
Career outcomes: Researcher, Academic, Cultural Policy Advisor, Museum Curator - Graduate School of Education - Educational Psychology (MA) — 24 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
Advanced study in the psychological aspects of education, including learning theories, child development, and educational assessment, to improve teaching and learning processes.
Field: Educational Psychology
Career outcomes: School Psychologist, Educational Consultant, Curriculum Developer, Researcher - Graduate School of Law (MA) — 24 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
This program offers in-depth study of specific legal areas, legal theory, and international law, preparing students for advanced legal practice, research, or public service.
Field: Law
Career outcomes: Legal Counsel, Judge, Prosecutor, Academic Researcher, International Organization Specialist - Graduate School of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health Systems - Biomedical Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program integrates engineering principles with biological and medical sciences to develop innovative solutions for healthcare, diagnostics, and therapeutics.
Field: Biomedical Engineering
Career outcomes: Biomedical Engineer, Medical Device Developer, Researcher, Clinical Engineer - Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology - Applied Chemistry (MSc) — 24 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
Students conduct advanced research in various fields of applied chemistry, including materials science, biotechnology, and environmental chemistry.
Field: Applied Chemistry
Career outcomes: Research Scientist, Product Developer, Process Engineer, Academic - Special Program for Global Human Resource Development (MSc) — 24 months · English · $535,800/yr · STEM
This interdisciplinary program, taught in English, aims to develop global leaders with expertise in sustainable development, environmental management, and international cooperation.
Field: Global Studies
Career outcomes: International Development Professional, Environmental Consultant, NGO Leader, Diplomat - International Master's Program in Agricultural Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · $535,800/yr · STEM
Taught in English, this program focuses on advanced agricultural science, including crop production, animal science, and food technology, with an international perspective.
Field: Agricultural Science
Career outcomes: Agricultural Researcher, Food Scientist, Agribusiness Manager, International Consultant - Graduate School of Humanities and Social Sciences - Cultural Studies (MA) — 24 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
This program offers advanced study in various cultural phenomena, theories, and methodologies, fostering interdisciplinary research skills.
Field: Cultural Studies
Career outcomes: Researcher, Academic, Cultural Policy Advisor, Museum Curator - Graduate School of Education - Educational Psychology (MA) — 24 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
Advanced study in the psychological aspects of education, including learning theories, child development, and educational assessment, to improve teaching and learning processes.
Field: Educational Psychology
Career outcomes: School Psychologist, Educational Consultant, Curriculum Developer, Researcher
PhD Programs (7)
- Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science (PhD) — 36 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This doctoral program focuses on advanced research into complex environmental and life science issues, aiming to develop sustainable solutions and deepen scientific understanding.
Field: Environmental and Life Science
Career outcomes: Environmental Scientist, University Professor, Conservation Biologist, Policy Advisor, International Organization Specialist - Graduate School of Humanities and Social Sciences (PhD) — 36 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
This doctoral program enables students to conduct original research in various humanities and social science disciplines, contributing new knowledge to their chosen field.
Field: Humanities and Social Sciences
Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Researcher, Policy Advisor, Think Tank Analyst - Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences (PhD) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This doctoral program provides an intensive research environment for students to conduct groundbreaking studies in medical, dental, and pharmaceutical fields, advancing healthcare knowledge.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Medical Researcher, University Professor, Pharmaceutical Industry Scientist, Public Health Leader - Graduate School of Medicine - Medical Sciences (PhD) — 48 months · English · $535,800/yr · STEM
This doctoral program offers advanced research opportunities in various medical fields, contributing to new discoveries and medical advancements.
Field: Medical Sciences
Career outcomes: Medical Researcher, University Professor, Clinical Scientist, Pharmaceutical R&D - Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science - Environmental Science (PhD) (PhD) — 36 months · English · $535,800/yr · STEM
Doctoral research focused on critical environmental issues, sustainable resource management, and ecological conservation, contributing to global environmental solutions.
Field: Environmental Science
Career outcomes: Environmental Researcher, Policy Advisor, Academic, NGO Specialist - Graduate School of Education (PhD) — 36 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
This doctoral program focuses on advanced research in educational theory, policy, and practice, preparing scholars to lead innovation and contribute to the field of education.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: University Professor, Educational Researcher, Policy Maker, School Superintendent - Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology (PhD) — 36 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This doctoral program offers advanced research opportunities across various scientific and engineering disciplines, fostering innovation and significant contributions to knowledge.
Field: Natural Science and Technology
Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Research Scientist, R&D Director, Innovator, Entrepreneur
Scholarships & Tuition at Okayama University
Annual tuition for international students: $5,500 – $5,800/year
✅ Okayama University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of Okayama University
- National Ranking: #14 in Japan
- QS World University Ranking: #951
- Times Higher Education (THE): #1001
- Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #501
- Ranking tier: Unranked
- Research output: Very High
Campus & Facilities at Okayama University
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Multiple Campuses
- Housing cost: ~$30000/month
Key Highlights
- Leading research in medical science
- Global learners' interdisciplinary programs
- Accessible urban campus, green environment
- Strong international student support
Fields of Study at Okayama University
- Medicine
- Science
- Engineering
- Agriculture
- Education
Notable Alumni
- Sahachiro Hata
- Seiki Yoshioka
- Mutsuko Ayano
- Motoki Tokieda
- Lotay Tshering
Frequently Asked Questions about Okayama University
What is Okayama University?
Okayama University is a public university located in Okayama, Japan, founded in 1964. It has approximately 13,000 students.
How much does it cost to study at Okayama University?
Tuition fees at Okayama University for international students range from $5,500 – $5,800/year. Student housing costs approximately $30000/month. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for Okayama University?
IELTS minimum: 5.5. TOEFL minimum: 61. GPA minimum: 3. Application fee: $17000. Selectivity: Moderate (40-60%). Application deadline: October 17, 2025 (for April 2026 admission), January 13, 2026 (for October 2026 admission).
What language are courses taught in at Okayama University?
Courses at Okayama University are taught in Japanese and English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 5.5.
How many programs does Okayama University offer?
Okayama University offers 55 programs: 39 Bachelor's, 9 Master's, and 7 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is Okayama University ranked?
#14 in Japan · QS World #951 · THE World #1001 · ARWU #501.
Does Okayama University offer scholarships?
Yes, Okayama University offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does Okayama University provide visa support?
Yes, Okayama University provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.
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