Osaka University
Innovate Globally. Lead the Future.
📍 Osaka, Japan 🇯🇵
🏆 #3 in Japan · QS World #91 · THE World #151 · ARWU #201
Quick Facts about Osaka University
- Founded: 1931
- Type: Public
- Students: 23,226
- Campus: Multiple Campuses
- Tuition: $6,000 – $6,300/year
- Language: Japanese, English
- Intakes: Spring, Fall
About Osaka University
Academics
Osaka University comprises 11 undergraduate schools and 15 graduate schools, offering a comprehensive range of disciplines from humanities to engineering, medicine, and science. The university emphasizes an interdisciplinary, international, and problem-solving approach to research and education. Notable programs include English-taught undergraduate degrees in Human Sciences and Science, as well as various English-medium graduate programs across science, engineering, and information science and technology. The university is home to world-class research institutes, such as the Immunology Frontier Research Center and the Center for Quantum Information and Quantum Biology, promoting cutting-edge research and innovation.
International Students
Osaka University provides robust support services for international students, including dedicated information rooms on each campus where students can access consultations, useful information, and participate in events. The university offers several English-taught degree programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels, facilitating access for non-Japanese speaking students. Furthermore, administrative staff are available in each faculty and graduate school to assist international students with various procedures, from admission to daily life consultations. Opportunities for cultural integration are fostered through interactions with Japanese students, faculty, and local communities.
Campus & Location
Osaka University is spread across three main campuses: Toyonaka, Suita, and Minoh, located in quiet residential areas of Osaka Prefecture. While there is no campus in downtown Osaka, a free inter-campus shuttle bus service connects the three main campuses, making travel convenient for students and staff. Osaka, known as "the Manchester of the Orient," is a vibrant industrial city with numerous attractions. Students can easily access popular spots like Osaka Castle, the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, Universal Studios Japan, and the bustling districts of Dotonbori and Umeda via public transportation.
Career Outcomes
Osaka University is committed to preparing its graduates for successful careers, with a Career Center that offers extensive support for career development and job searching. The university fosters strong industry connections and a growing startup culture, with a significant increase in university-originated venture businesses in recent years. Graduates find employment in diverse sectors, including government agencies, private corporations such as Sony and Panasonic, international organizations, and research institutions. The university actively supports entrepreneurial endeavors, providing pre-incubation infrastructure and funding opportunities for promising research.
Information for International Students at Osaka University
Osaka University in Osaka, Japan welcomes international students.
- Visa support available
- On-campus work allowed
- Student housing available (~$8000/month)
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: Japanese, English
Admissions Requirements for Osaka University
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Osaka University:
- IELTS minimum: 6
- GPA minimum: 3
- Selectivity: Moderate (40-60%)
- Application deadline: January 6, 2026
Programs at Osaka University (52 programs)
Osaka University offers 52 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (2)
- Special Integrated Science Course (BSc) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program offers a broad foundation in various scientific disciplines, allowing students to explore their interests before specializing, and emphasizes interdisciplinary research.
Field: Integrated Science
Career outcomes: Scientist, Engineer, Educator - Special Integrated Science Course (BSc) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program offers a broad foundation in various scientific disciplines, allowing students to explore their interests before specializing, and emphasizes interdisciplinary research.
Field: Integrated Science
Career outcomes: Scientist, Engineer, Educator
Master Programs (24)
- Master's Program in Information Science and Technology (MSc) — 24 months · English · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program covers advanced topics in information science and technology, including artificial intelligence, data science, computer networks, and software engineering.
Field: Information Science
Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, AI Engineer - Master's Program in Frontier Biosciences (MSc) — 24 months · English · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program focuses on cutting-edge research in biological sciences, integrating various fields such as molecular biology, neuroscience, and bioinformatics.
Field: Biosciences
Career outcomes: Biomedical Researcher, Biotechnologist, Pharmaceutical Scientist - Master's Program in Engineering Science (MSc) — 24 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program offers a broad range of specializations within engineering science, including mechanical, electrical, and materials engineering, with a strong emphasis on research.
Field: Engineering Science
Career outcomes: Engineer, Researcher, Project Manager - Master's Program in Law and Politics (MA) — 24 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
This program offers in-depth study of legal systems, political theories, and international relations, preparing students for careers in law, government, and academia.
Field: Law and Politics
Career outcomes: Lawyer, Politician, Policy Advisor - Master's Program in Economics (MA) — 24 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
This program offers rigorous training in economic theory, econometrics, and applied economics, preparing students for careers in research, finance, and public policy.
Field: Economics
Career outcomes: Economist, Financial Analyst, Policy Analyst - Master's Program in International Public Policy (MA) — 24 months · English · $535,800/yr
This program trains future leaders in international public policy, focusing on global issues, policy analysis, and governance in a complex world.
Field: Public Policy
Career outcomes: Policy Analyst, Diplomat, International Organization Specialist - Master's Program in Global Human Resources Development (MA) — 24 months · English · $535,800/yr
This program focuses on developing human resources in a global context, covering topics such as organizational behavior, cross-cultural management, and talent development.
Field: Human Resources
Career outcomes: HR Manager, Talent Development Specialist, Organizational Consultant - Master's Program in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (MSc) — 24 months · English · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program explores the fundamental principles and applications of nanoscience and nanotechnology, covering materials, devices, and systems at the nanoscale.
Field: Nanoscience
Career outcomes: Nanotechnology Engineer, Materials Scientist, Research Scientist - Master's Program in Dentistry (MSc) — 24 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program offers advanced education and research opportunities in various dental specialties, including oral biology, restorative dentistry, and orthodontics.
Field: Dentistry
Career outcomes: Dental Specialist, Dental Researcher, University Lecturer - Master's Program in Medical Sciences (MSc) — 24 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program offers advanced study in various medical fields, including basic medical sciences, clinical research, and public health, preparing students for research and healthcare careers.
Field: Medical Sciences
Career outcomes: Medical Researcher, Public Health Specialist, Healthcare Administrator - Master's Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences (MSc) — 24 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program focuses on drug discovery, development, and delivery, covering medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, and pharmaceutical analysis.
Field: Pharmaceutical Sciences
Career outcomes: Pharmacist, Pharmaceutical Researcher, Drug Development Scientist - International Program of Economics (MA) — 24 months · English · $535,800/yr
This program provides rigorous training in economic theory and empirical methods, covering microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics, for careers in research, finance, and policy analysis.
Field: Economics
Career outcomes: Economist, Financial Analyst, Policy Advisor, Researcher - International Program of Economics (MA) — 24 months · English · $535,800/yr
This program provides rigorous training in economic theory and empirical methods, covering microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics, for careers in research, finance, and policy analysis.
Field: Economics
Career outcomes: Economist, Financial Analyst, Policy Advisor, Researcher - Master's Program in Information Science and Technology (MSc) — 24 months · English · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program covers advanced topics in information science and technology, including artificial intelligence, data science, computer networks, and software engineering.
Field: Information Science
Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, AI Engineer - Master's Program in Frontier Biosciences (MSc) — 24 months · English · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program focuses on cutting-edge research in biological sciences, integrating various fields such as molecular biology, neuroscience, and bioinformatics.
Field: Biosciences
Career outcomes: Biomedical Researcher, Biotechnologist, Pharmaceutical Scientist - Master's Program in Engineering Science (MSc) — 24 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program offers a broad range of specializations within engineering science, including mechanical, electrical, and materials engineering, with a strong emphasis on research.
Field: Engineering Science
Career outcomes: Engineer, Researcher, Project Manager - Master's Program in Law and Politics (MA) — 24 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
This program offers in-depth study of legal systems, political theories, and international relations, preparing students for careers in law, government, and academia.
Field: Law and Politics
Career outcomes: Lawyer, Politician, Policy Advisor - Master's Program in Economics (MA) — 24 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
This program offers rigorous training in economic theory, econometrics, and applied economics, preparing students for careers in research, finance, and public policy.
Field: Economics
Career outcomes: Economist, Financial Analyst, Policy Analyst - Master's Program in International Public Policy (MA) — 24 months · English · $535,800/yr
This program trains future leaders in international public policy, focusing on global issues, policy analysis, and governance in a complex world.
Field: Public Policy
Career outcomes: Policy Analyst, Diplomat, International Organization Specialist - Master's Program in Global Human Resources Development (MA) — 24 months · English · $535,800/yr
This program focuses on developing human resources in a global context, covering topics such as organizational behavior, cross-cultural management, and talent development.
Field: Human Resources
Career outcomes: HR Manager, Talent Development Specialist, Organizational Consultant - Master's Program in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (MSc) — 24 months · English · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program explores the fundamental principles and applications of nanoscience and nanotechnology, covering materials, devices, and systems at the nanoscale.
Field: Nanoscience
Career outcomes: Nanotechnology Engineer, Materials Scientist, Research Scientist - Master's Program in Dentistry (MSc) — 24 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program offers advanced education and research opportunities in various dental specialties, including oral biology, restorative dentistry, and orthodontics.
Field: Dentistry
Career outcomes: Dental Specialist, Dental Researcher, University Lecturer - Master's Program in Medical Sciences (MSc) — 24 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program offers advanced study in various medical fields, including basic medical sciences, clinical research, and public health, preparing students for research and healthcare careers.
Field: Medical Sciences
Career outcomes: Medical Researcher, Public Health Specialist, Healthcare Administrator - Master's Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences (MSc) — 24 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program focuses on drug discovery, development, and delivery, covering medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, and pharmaceutical analysis.
Field: Pharmaceutical Sciences
Career outcomes: Pharmacist, Pharmaceutical Researcher, Drug Development Scientist
PhD Programs (26)
- Doctoral Program in Engineering Science (PhD) — 36 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program provides advanced research opportunities in various engineering disciplines, fostering innovation and leadership in scientific and technological fields.
Field: Engineering Science
Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Engineer, R&D Director - Doctoral Program in Law and Politics (PhD) — 36 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
This program provides advanced research opportunities in law and political science, enabling students to contribute to legal scholarship and political theory.
Field: Law and Politics
Career outcomes: University Professor, Legal Scholar, Government Advisor - Doctoral Program in Economics (PhD) — 36 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
This program provides advanced research opportunities in economics, enabling students to conduct original research and contribute to economic theory and policy.
Field: Economics
Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Economist, Central Bank Researcher - Doctoral Program in Frontier Biosciences (PhD) — 36 months · English · $535,800/yr · STEM
This advanced research program allows students to conduct independent, innovative research in various areas of biosciences, contributing to new scientific discoveries.
Field: Biosciences
Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Research Scientist, R&D Director - Doctoral Program in International Public Policy (PhD) — 36 months · English · $535,800/yr
This program offers advanced research opportunities in international public policy, enabling students to contribute to policy-making and academic discourse on global challenges.
Field: Public Policy
Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Policy Advisor, Think Tank Researcher - Doctoral Program in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (PhD) — 36 months · English · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program offers advanced research opportunities in nanoscience and nanotechnology, focusing on innovative discoveries and technological advancements at the atomic and molecular levels.
Field: Nanoscience
Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Research Scientist, R&D Engineer - Doctoral Program in Dentistry (PhD) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program provides advanced research training in dentistry, enabling students to conduct independent research and contribute to dental science and clinical practice.
Field: Dentistry
Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Dental Researcher, Specialist Dentist - Doctoral Program in Global Human Resources Development (PhD) — 36 months · English · $535,800/yr
This program provides advanced research training in global human resources, preparing students for academic and leadership roles in HR and organizational development.
Field: Human Resources
Career outcomes: University Professor, HR Director, Organizational Development Consultant - Doctoral Program in Information Science and Technology (PhD) — 36 months · English · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program provides advanced research training in information science and technology, enabling students to conduct original research and contribute to the frontiers of computing.
Field: Information Science
Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Software Architect, Research Scientist - Doctoral Program in Medical Sciences (PhD) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program provides advanced research training in medical sciences, enabling students to conduct independent research and contribute to medical knowledge and innovation.
Field: Medical Sciences
Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Medical Researcher, Physician Scientist - Doctoral Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences (PhD) — 36 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program provides advanced research training in pharmaceutical sciences, enabling students to conduct independent research and contribute to drug innovation and healthcare.
Field: Pharmaceutical Sciences
Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Pharmaceutical Scientist, R&D Director - PhD in Management (PhD) — 36 months · English · $535,800/yr
This doctoral program focuses on advanced research in management, exploring topics such as organizational theory, strategic management, and innovation, to contribute to business knowledge and practice.
Field: Management
Career outcomes: Management Consultant, University Professor, Business Strategist - PhD in Human Sciences (PhD) — 36 months · English · $535,800/yr
This program offers advanced research opportunities in human sciences, exploring topics such as psychology, sociology, and education, to contribute to a deeper understanding of human behavior and society.
Field: Human Sciences
Career outcomes: Academic Researcher, University Professor, Social Policy Analyst - PhD in Management (PhD) — 36 months · English · $535,800/yr
This doctoral program focuses on advanced research in management, exploring topics such as organizational theory, strategic management, and innovation, to contribute to business knowledge and practice.
Field: Management
Career outcomes: Management Consultant, University Professor, Business Strategist - PhD in Human Sciences (PhD) — 36 months · English · $535,800/yr
This program offers advanced research opportunities in human sciences, exploring topics such as psychology, sociology, and education, to contribute to a deeper understanding of human behavior and society.
Field: Human Sciences
Career outcomes: Academic Researcher, University Professor, Social Policy Analyst - Doctoral Program in Engineering Science (PhD) — 36 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program provides advanced research opportunities in various engineering disciplines, fostering innovation and leadership in scientific and technological fields.
Field: Engineering Science
Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Engineer, R&D Director - Doctoral Program in Law and Politics (PhD) — 36 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
This program provides advanced research opportunities in law and political science, enabling students to contribute to legal scholarship and political theory.
Field: Law and Politics
Career outcomes: University Professor, Legal Scholar, Government Advisor - Doctoral Program in Economics (PhD) — 36 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr
This program provides advanced research opportunities in economics, enabling students to conduct original research and contribute to economic theory and policy.
Field: Economics
Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Economist, Central Bank Researcher - Doctoral Program in Frontier Biosciences (PhD) — 36 months · English · $535,800/yr · STEM
This advanced research program allows students to conduct independent, innovative research in various areas of biosciences, contributing to new scientific discoveries.
Field: Biosciences
Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Research Scientist, R&D Director - Doctoral Program in International Public Policy (PhD) — 36 months · English · $535,800/yr
This program offers advanced research opportunities in international public policy, enabling students to contribute to policy-making and academic discourse on global challenges.
Field: Public Policy
Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Policy Advisor, Think Tank Researcher - Doctoral Program in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (PhD) — 36 months · English · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program offers advanced research opportunities in nanoscience and nanotechnology, focusing on innovative discoveries and technological advancements at the atomic and molecular levels.
Field: Nanoscience
Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Research Scientist, R&D Engineer - Doctoral Program in Dentistry (PhD) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program provides advanced research training in dentistry, enabling students to conduct independent research and contribute to dental science and clinical practice.
Field: Dentistry
Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Dental Researcher, Specialist Dentist - Doctoral Program in Global Human Resources Development (PhD) — 36 months · English · $535,800/yr
This program provides advanced research training in global human resources, preparing students for academic and leadership roles in HR and organizational development.
Field: Human Resources
Career outcomes: University Professor, HR Director, Organizational Development Consultant - Doctoral Program in Information Science and Technology (PhD) — 36 months · English · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program provides advanced research training in information science and technology, enabling students to conduct original research and contribute to the frontiers of computing.
Field: Information Science
Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Software Architect, Research Scientist - Doctoral Program in Medical Sciences (PhD) — 48 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program provides advanced research training in medical sciences, enabling students to conduct independent research and contribute to medical knowledge and innovation.
Field: Medical Sciences
Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Medical Researcher, Physician Scientist - Doctoral Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences (PhD) — 36 months · Japanese · $535,800/yr · STEM
This program provides advanced research training in pharmaceutical sciences, enabling students to conduct independent research and contribute to drug innovation and healthcare.
Field: Pharmaceutical Sciences
Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Pharmaceutical Scientist, R&D Director
Scholarships & Tuition at Osaka University
Annual tuition for international students: $6,000 – $6,300/year
✅ Osaka University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of Osaka University
- National Ranking: #3 in Japan
- QS World University Ranking: #91
- Times Higher Education (THE): #151
- Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #201
- Ranking tier: Top 200
- Research output: Very High
Campus & Facilities at Osaka University
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- No disability support info
- Campus type: Multiple Campuses
- Housing cost: ~$8000/month
Key Highlights
- Leading national research university
- Diverse academic disciplines
- World-class research institutes
- Robust international student support
- English-taught degree programs
Accreditation
- Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
Fields of Study at Osaka University
- Engineering
- Science
- Medicine
- Law
- Economics
Notable Alumni
- Osamu Tezuka
- Akio Morita
- Hideki Yukawa
- Shimon Sakaguchi
- Hidesaburō Hanafusa
Frequently Asked Questions about Osaka University
What is Osaka University?
Osaka University is a public university located in Osaka, Japan, founded in 1931. It has approximately 23,226 students.
How much does it cost to study at Osaka University?
Tuition fees at Osaka University for international students range from $6,000 – $6,300/year. Student housing costs approximately $8000/month. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for Osaka University?
IELTS minimum: 6. GPA minimum: 3. Selectivity: Moderate (40-60%). Application deadline: January 6, 2026.
What language are courses taught in at Osaka University?
Courses at Osaka University are taught in Japanese and English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.
How many programs does Osaka University offer?
Osaka University offers 52 programs: 2 Bachelor's, 24 Master's, and 26 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is Osaka University ranked?
#3 in Japan · QS World #91 · THE World #151 · ARWU #201.
Does Osaka University offer scholarships?
Yes, Osaka University offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does Osaka University provide visa support?
Yes, Osaka University provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.
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