Hitotsubashi University

Leaders in social sciences, shaping global futures.

πŸ“ Tokyo, Japan πŸ‡―πŸ‡΅

πŸ† #16 in Japan Β· QS World #553 Β· THE World #1201

Quick Facts about Hitotsubashi University

  • Type: Public
  • Students: 6,200
  • International: 14%
  • Campus: Multiple Campuses
  • Tuition: $5,000 – $6,000/year
  • Language: Japanese, English
  • Intakes: Fall, Spring

About Hitotsubashi University

Hitotsubashi University, located in Tokyo, Japan, is a prestigious national university renowned for its specialization in the social sciences. Established in 1875 as Japan's first business school, it has consistently produced leaders in various fields. The university is recognized for its strong academic programs and its commitment to fostering global talent.

Academics

Hitotsubashi University offers a focused curriculum primarily within the social sciences, encompassing faculties such as Commerce and Management, Economics, Law, Social Sciences, and the newly established Social Data Science. A distinctive feature of its teaching approach is the emphasis on small-group seminars, fostering close interaction between students and professors and promoting in-depth discussion and problem-solving skills. The university's strong research output, particularly in economics, further solidifies its reputation as a leading institution in the social sciences. Students can also take classes across different faculties, enhancing multidisciplinary learning.

International Students

Hitotsubashi University actively supports its international student community, which comprises approximately 900 students from over 50 countries. The International Student and Study Abroad Advising Office (ISSAAO) provides a range of services, including advising on academic, career, and personal matters, as well as information on living in Japan. English-taught programs are available, particularly through the Hitotsubashi Global Education Program (HGP), which offers interdisciplinary courses in social sciences. The Kodaira International Campus provides residence halls for both domestic and international students, facilitating cultural integration and offering excellent sports facilities.

Campus & Location

The main teaching and research activities take place at the Kunitachi Campus in western Tokyo, a beautiful campus known for its antique buildings and green spaces. The street leading to the university from Kunitachi Station is particularly famous for its cherry blossoms in spring. While situated in a more suburban part of Tokyo, the Kunitachi Campus is well-connected, with direct train access to central Tokyo areas like Shinjuku in approximately 32 minutes and Tokyo Station in about 43 minutes. The university also has a Chiyoda Campus in central Tokyo, where some graduate courses are offered.

Career Outcomes

Hitotsubashi University boasts a strong track record in career outcomes, with a high employment rate for its graduates. The Career Support Office provides comprehensive services, including individual counseling, job hunting guidance, and seminars, to assist students in their career development. The university has strong industry connections, and its alumni network, Josuikai, with over 36,000 members globally, offers valuable networking opportunities. Graduates are highly sought after by major corporations in various sectors, including finance, consulting, IT, and manufacturing.

Information for International Students at Hitotsubashi University

Hitotsubashi University in Tokyo, 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 (~$45200/month)
  • Work placement / internship opportunities available
  • Teaching languages: Japanese, English

Admissions Requirements for Hitotsubashi University

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

  • IELTS minimum: 6
  • TOEFL minimum: 79
  • GPA minimum: 2.7
  • GRE required
  • GMAT required
  • Application fee: $17000
  • Selectivity: Selective (20-40%)

Apply to Hitotsubashi University β†’

Programs at Hitotsubashi University (11 programs)

Hitotsubashi University offers 11 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (1)

  • Commerce (BA) β€” 48 months Β· Japanese Β· $535,800/yr
    Students in this program gain expertise in business administration, marketing, accounting, and finance, developing skills essential for leadership roles in various industries.
    Field: Business and Commerce
    Career outcomes: Marketing Manager, Accountant, Financial Manager, Business Consultant

Master Programs (5)

  • Global Business (MA) β€” 24 months Β· English Β· $535,800/yr
    This program provides a comprehensive understanding of global business environments, international trade, and cross-cultural management, preparing students for international careers.
    Field: Business and Commerce
    Career outcomes: International Business Manager, Trade Analyst, Global Marketing Specialist, Consultant
  • Data Science for Business (MSc) β€” 24 months Β· English Β· $535,800/yr Β· STEM
    This program integrates data science methodologies with business applications, enabling students to leverage data for strategic decision-making and innovation in various industries.
    Field: Data Science
    Career outcomes: Data Scientist, Business Analyst, Data Engineer, Consultant
  • Financial Economics (MSc) β€” 24 months Β· English Β· $535,800/yr Β· STEM
    This program combines economic theory with financial applications, equipping students with advanced analytical skills for careers in finance, banking, and investment.
    Field: Economics
    Career outcomes: Financial Analyst, Portfolio Manager, Risk Manager, Quantitative Analyst
  • International Corporate Strategy (MBA) β€” 24 months Β· English Β· $535,800/yr
    This specialized MBA program focuses on global business strategies, cross-cultural management, and innovation, preparing students for leadership roles in international corporations.
    Field: Business Administration
    Career outcomes: Global Business Manager, Strategy Consultant, International Marketing Specialist, Entrepreneur
  • Public Policy (MA) β€” 24 months Β· Japanese Β· $535,800/yr
    This program focuses on the analysis, formulation, and implementation of public policies, preparing students for roles in government, non-profits, and international organizations.
    Field: Public Policy
    Career outcomes: Policy Analyst, Government Official, NGO Program Manager, International Organization Specialist

PhD Programs (5)

  • Business Administration (PhD) β€” 36 months Β· Japanese Β· $535,800/yr
    This doctoral program prepares scholars for academic careers and high-level research positions by focusing on advanced theories and methodologies in various business disciplines.
    Field: Business Administration
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Management Consultant, Research Director, Business Strategist
  • Economics (PhD) β€” 36 months Β· Japanese Β· $535,800/yr Β· STEM
    The PhD program in Economics offers advanced training in economic theory and econometrics, enabling students to conduct original research and contribute to the field.
    Field: Economics
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Economist, Research Fellow, Policy Researcher
  • Law (PhD) β€” 36 months Β· Japanese Β· $535,800/yr
    The PhD in Law program offers an opportunity for in-depth legal research and scholarly writing, contributing to legal theory and practice in specialized areas.
    Field: Law
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Legal Scholar, International Legal Advisor, Policy Maker
  • Social Sciences (PhD) β€” 36 months Β· Japanese Β· $535,800/yr
    This doctoral program fosters advanced research in social sciences, allowing students to conduct original studies and contribute to theoretical and empirical knowledge in their chosen field.
    Field: Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Researcher, Policy Analyst, International Organization Specialist
  • Global Governance (PhD) β€” 36 months Β· English Β· $535,800/yr
    This doctoral program examines complex global challenges and governance structures, fostering interdisciplinary research on international relations, law, and economics.
    Field: International Relations
    Career outcomes: University Professor, International Organization Specialist, Policy Advisor, Think Tank Researcher

Scholarships & Tuition at Hitotsubashi University

Annual tuition for international students: $5,000 – $6,000/year

βœ… Hitotsubashi University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of Hitotsubashi University

  • National Ranking: #16 in Japan
  • QS World University Ranking: #553
  • Times Higher Education (THE): #1201
  • Ranking tier: Top 500
  • Research output: High

Campus & Facilities at Hitotsubashi University

  • Student housing available
  • Sports facilities available
  • Disability support available
  • Campus type: Multiple Campuses
  • Housing cost: ~$45200/month

Key Highlights

  • Japan's first business school
  • Leading social sciences university
  • Small-group seminar focus
  • Strong international student support
  • Beautiful Kunitachi Campus

Accreditation

  • AACSB
  • NIAD-QE
  • JUAA

Fields of Study at Hitotsubashi University

  • Economics
  • Law
  • Social Sciences
  • Commerce

Notable Alumni

  • Masayoshi Ōhira
  • Heizō Takenaka
  • Hiroshi Mikitani
  • Michio Watanabe
  • Fusanosuke Kuhara

Frequently Asked Questions about Hitotsubashi University

What is Hitotsubashi University?

Hitotsubashi University is a public university located in Tokyo, Japan. It has approximately 6,200 students, with 14% being international students.

How much does it cost to study at Hitotsubashi University?

Tuition fees at Hitotsubashi University for international students range from $5,000 – $6,000/year. Student housing costs approximately $45200/month. Scholarships are available for international students.

What are the admission requirements for Hitotsubashi University?

IELTS minimum: 6. TOEFL minimum: 79. GPA minimum: 2.7. GRE required. GMAT required. Application fee: $17000. Selectivity: Selective (20-40%).

What language are courses taught in at Hitotsubashi University?

Courses at Hitotsubashi University are taught in Japanese and English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.

How many programs does Hitotsubashi University offer?

Hitotsubashi University offers 11 programs: 1 Bachelor's, 5 Master's, and 5 PhD programs across various fields of study.

What is Hitotsubashi University ranked?

#16 in Japan Β· QS World #553 Β· THE World #1201.

Does Hitotsubashi University offer scholarships?

Yes, Hitotsubashi University offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.

Does Hitotsubashi University provide visa support?

Yes, Hitotsubashi University provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.

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