Waseda University

Quick Facts about Waseda University

• Founded: 1882
• Type: Private
• Students: 47,486
• Campus: Multiple Campuses
• Tuition: $14,000 – $22,000/year
• Language: English, Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Spanish, French, German, Arabic, Swahili, Ainu, Basque
• Intakes: Spring, Fall

About Waseda University

Academics

Waseda University comprises 13 undergraduate schools and 23 graduate schools, with a strong emphasis on a liberal arts ethos that encourages critical thinking and multidisciplinary exploration. The university offers over 1,500 courses taught in English across six undergraduate and twelve graduate schools, including programs in Political Science and Economics, Social Sciences, International Liberal Studies, and various fields of Science and Engineering. Waseda is also recognized for its pioneering research, particularly in areas like robotics, with the WABOT project initiating in 1967 and producing the first android, WABOT-1, in 1972.

International Students

Waseda University actively supports its large international student population, which includes students from over 125 countries. The Center for International Education (CIE) and the International Admissions Office provide comprehensive support, including advice on visas, tuition, housing, and career services. English-taught programs are widely available, and the university aims to further increase its international student body to 10,000 by 2032. Various student organizations and cultural exchange events, such as the Waseda International Festival, foster cultural integration and offer opportunities for Japanese and international students to interact.

Campus & Location

Waseda University's main campus is situated in Shinjuku, Tokyo, a vibrant and dynamic district. The university also operates several other campuses, some of which are directly connected to Tokyo Metro stations, ensuring convenient transportation. Tokyo offers a rich city life, and Waseda's urban campus provides easy access to various attractions and cultural experiences. The university also provides residential support, including dormitories like the Waseda International Student House (WISH), which offers unique programs for international students.

Career Outcomes

Waseda University boasts strong graduate employability rankings, recognized as the top private university in Japan and highly ranked globally for graduate employability. Approximately 42% of Waseda graduates enter the workforce directly, while 22% pursue further studies. The Career Center offers extensive support for job hunting, including recruitment talks, seminars, and specialized guidance for international students, with some resources available in English. Notable employers hiring Waseda international students have included major companies like Accenture Japan Ltd., IBM Japan, Ltd., Fujitsu Limited, and Rakuten Ltd. Japanese companies often prioritize potential over immediate skills in new graduates, a key aspect international students should understand for job searching in Japan.

Information for International Students at Waseda University

Waseda University in Tokyo, Japan welcomes international students.

• Visa support available
• No on-campus work
• Student housing available (~$70000/month)
• Teaching languages: English, Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Spanish, French, German, Arabic, Swahili, Ainu, Basque

Admissions Requirements for Waseda University

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

• GPA minimum: 3
• Application fee: $10000
• Selectivity: Selective (20-40%)
• Application deadline: February 10, 2026

Apply to Waseda University →

Programs at Waseda University (52 programs)

Waseda University offers 52 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (22)

• Commerce (BA) — 48 months · Japanese · $1,350,000/yr
  This program covers core business functions including marketing, finance, accounting, and management, preparing students for diverse roles in the corporate world.
  Field: Business, Commerce
  Career outcomes: Marketing Manager, Financial Analyst, Accountant, Business Consultant
• Social Sciences (BA) — 48 months · Japanese · $1,250,000/yr
  Students explore human behavior, societal structures, and cultural dynamics through various disciplines like sociology, psychology, and anthropology, developing critical analytical skills.
  Field: Social Sciences
  Career outcomes: Social Worker, Researcher, Human Resources Specialist, Urban Planner
• Science and Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · Japanese · $1,700,000/yr · STEM
  Offering various specializations, this program provides a strong foundation in scientific principles and engineering applications, fostering innovation and problem-solving skills.
  Field: Science, Engineering
  Career outcomes: Engineer, Scientist, Researcher, Developer
• International Liberal Studies (BA) — 48 months · English · $1,400,000/yr
  An interdisciplinary program taught entirely in English, offering a broad education in humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences with a global perspective.
  Field: Liberal Arts
  Career outcomes: International Relations Specialist, Consultant, NGO Worker, Educator
• Fundamental Science and Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · Japanese · $1,600,000/yr · STEM
  Students acquire a strong foundation in core scientific and engineering principles, with specializations available in various fields like mathematics, physics, and chemistry.
  Field: Engineering
  Career outcomes: Researcher, Engineer, Data Scientist, Educator
• Architecture (BSc) — 48 months · Japanese · $1,700,000/yr · STEM
  Students learn the principles of architectural design, construction, and urban planning, combining artistic vision with technical knowledge to create functional and aesthetic spaces.
  Field: Architecture
  Career outcomes: Architect, Urban Designer, Construction Manager, Interior Designer
• Human Sciences (BA) — 48 months · Japanese · $1,250,000/yr
  An interdisciplinary program exploring human behavior, society, and culture from various perspectives including psychology, education, and sociology, promoting a holistic understanding of human existence.
  Field: Humanities, Social Sciences
  Career outcomes: Counselor, Educator, Social Researcher, Community Organizer
• Sport Sciences (BSc) — 48 months · Japanese · $1,400,000/yr
  This program combines scientific knowledge with practical applications in sports, covering areas like exercise physiology, sports psychology, and coaching, to develop professionals in the sports industry.
  Field: Sport Science
  Career outcomes: Sports Trainer, Coach, Sports Manager, Physical Therapist
• Political Science and Economics (BA) — 48 months · Japanese · $1,300,000/yr
  This program provides a comprehensive understanding of political systems, economic theories, and their interconnections, preparing students for careers in government, international organizations, and business.
  Field: Social Sciences
  Career outcomes: Diplomat, Economist, Policy Analyst, Journalist
• Law (BA) — 48 months · Japanese · $1,250,000/yr
  Students gain a foundational understanding of legal principles, judicial systems, and various branches of law, preparing them for legal professions or further graduate studies.
  Field: Law
  Career outcomes: Lawyer, Judge, Legal Consultant, Public Prosecutor
• Culture, Media and Society (BA) — 48 months · Japanese · $1,280,000/yr
  This program explores the intricate relationships between culture, media, and societal structures, fostering critical thinking about contemporary global issues.
  Field: Humanities
  Career outcomes: Journalist, Media Producer, Cultural Researcher, Marketing Specialist
• Creative Science and Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · Japanese · $1,600,000/yr · STEM
  This program focuses on innovative approaches to engineering, integrating design, technology, and problem-solving across disciplines such as architecture and computer science.
  Field: Engineering
  Career outcomes: Architect, Software Developer, Product Designer, Urban Planner
• Advanced Science and Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · Japanese · $1,600,000/yr · STEM
  This program delves into cutting-edge scientific and engineering fields, including materials science, life science, and electrical engineering, preparing students for advanced research and development.
  Field: Engineering
  Career outcomes: Research Scientist, Biotechnologist, Electrical Engineer, Chemical Engineer
• Global Studies in English (Political Science and Economics) (BA) — 48 months · English · $1,350,000/yr
  This English-taught program focuses on global political and economic issues, providing an in-depth analysis of international relations, public policy, and economic development.
  Field: Social Sciences
  Career outcomes: International Civil Servant, Policy Analyst, Business Consultant, Researcher
• Commerce (BA) — 48 months · Japanese · $1,350,000/yr
  This program covers core business functions including marketing, finance, accounting, and management, preparing students for diverse roles in the corporate world.
  Field: Business, Commerce
  Career outcomes: Marketing Manager, Financial Analyst, Accountant, Business Consultant
• Social Sciences (BA) — 48 months · Japanese · $1,250,000/yr
  Students explore human behavior, societal structures, and cultural dynamics through various disciplines like sociology, psychology, and anthropology, developing critical analytical skills.
  Field: Social Sciences
  Career outcomes: Social Worker, Researcher, Human Resources Specialist, Urban Planner
• Science and Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · Japanese · $1,700,000/yr · STEM
  Offering various specializations, this program provides a strong foundation in scientific principles and engineering applications, fostering innovation and problem-solving skills.
  Field: Science, Engineering
  Career outcomes: Engineer, Scientist, Researcher, Developer
• International Liberal Studies (BA) — 48 months · English · $1,400,000/yr
  An interdisciplinary program taught entirely in English, offering a broad education in humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences with a global perspective.
  Field: Liberal Arts
  Career outcomes: International Relations Specialist, Consultant, NGO Worker, Educator
• Fundamental Science and Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · Japanese · $1,600,000/yr · STEM
  Students acquire a strong foundation in core scientific and engineering principles, with specializations available in various fields like mathematics, physics, and chemistry.
  Field: Engineering
  Career outcomes: Researcher, Engineer, Data Scientist, Educator
• Architecture (BSc) — 48 months · Japanese · $1,700,000/yr · STEM
  Students learn the principles of architectural design, construction, and urban planning, combining artistic vision with technical knowledge to create functional and aesthetic spaces.
  Field: Architecture
  Career outcomes: Architect, Urban Designer, Construction Manager, Interior Designer
• Human Sciences (BA) — 48 months · Japanese · $1,250,000/yr
  An interdisciplinary program exploring human behavior, society, and culture from various perspectives including psychology, education, and sociology, promoting a holistic understanding of human existence.
  Field: Humanities, Social Sciences
  Career outcomes: Counselor, Educator, Social Researcher, Community Organizer
• Sport Sciences (BSc) — 48 months · Japanese · $1,400,000/yr
  This program combines scientific knowledge with practical applications in sports, covering areas like exercise physiology, sports psychology, and coaching, to develop professionals in the sports industry.
  Field: Sport Science
  Career outcomes: Sports Trainer, Coach, Sports Manager, Physical Therapist

Master Programs (18)

• Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 24 months · English · $1,800,000/yr
  This program provides advanced business education with a focus on leadership, strategy, and global management, preparing professionals for executive roles in various industries.
  Field: Business Administration
  Career outcomes: CEO, Consultant, Senior Manager, Entrepreneur
• Information, Production and Systems Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · $1,000,000/yr · STEM
  This program focuses on advanced topics in information technology, manufacturing systems, and robotics, preparing students for cutting-edge roles in industry and research.
  Field: Engineering, Computer Science
  Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Robotics Engineer, Systems Architect, Data Scientist
• Global Studies (MA) — 24 months · English · $1,100,000/yr
  An interdisciplinary program focusing on global issues, international relations, and cultural studies, designed for students seeking careers in international organizations, diplomacy, or academia.
  Field: International Relations, Global Studies
  Career outcomes: Diplomat, International Organization Staff, Policy Analyst, Academic
• Law (LL.M.) (MA) — 12 months · English · $1,200,000/yr
  An advanced legal program for students seeking specialized knowledge in areas such as international business law, intellectual property law, or public law, often with an international focus.
  Field: Law
  Career outcomes: International Lawyer, Legal Counsel, Academic Researcher
• Japanese Applied Linguistics (MA) — 24 months · Japanese · $1,050,000/yr
  This program delves into the theoretical and practical aspects of Japanese language acquisition, teaching methodologies, and linguistic analysis, suitable for future educators and researchers.
  Field: Linguistics, Japanese Studies
  Career outcomes: Japanese Language Teacher, Linguist, Translator, Researcher
• Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 24 months · English · $2,000,000/yr
  A rigorous program designed to develop leadership and management skills, covering areas such as finance, marketing, strategy, and organizational behavior.
  Field: Business Administration
  Career outcomes: CEO, Consultant, Investment Banker, Marketing Director
• Master of Science in Computer Science and Communications Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · $1,450,000/yr · STEM
  This program offers advanced studies in computer science, including artificial intelligence, data science, and network engineering, preparing students for high-tech careers.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: Software Engineer, AI Researcher, Data Scientist, Network Architect
• Master of Arts in International Relations (MA) — 24 months · English · $1,200,000/yr
  Students analyze global political, economic, and social issues, focusing on international security, diplomacy, and regional studies.
  Field: International Relations
  Career outcomes: Diplomat, International Organization Staff, Policy Advisor, Researcher
• Master of Arts in Japanese Language and Culture (MA) — 24 months · Japanese · $1,150,000/yr
  This program offers an in-depth study of Japanese language, literature, history, and contemporary culture, suitable for those seeking expertise in Japan-related fields.
  Field: Humanities
  Career outcomes: Translator, Interpreter, Academic Researcher, Cultural Exchange Specialist
• Master of Public Management (MA) — 24 months · Japanese · $1,300,000/yr
  Designed for aspiring public sector leaders, this program covers public policy analysis, public finance, and organizational management within government and non-profit contexts.
  Field: Public Administration
  Career outcomes: Government Official, Policy Consultant, NGO Manager, Urban Planner
• Master of Finance (MSc) — 24 months · English · $1,800,000/yr · STEM
  This program provides advanced knowledge and analytical skills in financial markets, corporate finance, and investment management, preparing students for careers in the financial industry.
  Field: Finance
  Career outcomes: Financial Analyst, Portfolio Manager, Investment Banker, Risk Manager
• Master of Arts in Journalism (MA) — 24 months · Japanese · $1,250,000/yr
  This program equips students with advanced journalistic skills, ethical considerations, and a deep understanding of media landscapes in a globalized world.
  Field: Journalism
  Career outcomes: Journalist, Editor, Media Producer, Public Relations Specialist
• Master of Science in Global Environmental Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · $1,500,000/yr · STEM
  This program addresses global environmental challenges through an engineering lens, focusing on sustainable development, renewable energy, and environmental management.
  Field: Environmental Engineering
  Career outcomes: Environmental Engineer, Sustainability Consultant, Policy Advisor, Researcher
• Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 24 months · English · $1,800,000/yr
  This program provides advanced business education with a focus on leadership, strategy, and global management, preparing professionals for executive roles in various industries.
  Field: Business Administration
  Career outcomes: CEO, Consultant, Senior Manager, Entrepreneur
• Information, Production and Systems Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · $1,000,000/yr · STEM
  This program focuses on advanced topics in information technology, manufacturing systems, and robotics, preparing students for cutting-edge roles in industry and research.
  Field: Engineering, Computer Science
  Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Robotics Engineer, Systems Architect, Data Scientist
• Global Studies (MA) — 24 months · English · $1,100,000/yr
  An interdisciplinary program focusing on global issues, international relations, and cultural studies, designed for students seeking careers in international organizations, diplomacy, or academia.
  Field: International Relations, Global Studies
  Career outcomes: Diplomat, International Organization Staff, Policy Analyst, Academic
• Law (LL.M.) (MA) — 12 months · English · $1,200,000/yr
  An advanced legal program for students seeking specialized knowledge in areas such as international business law, intellectual property law, or public law, often with an international focus.
  Field: Law
  Career outcomes: International Lawyer, Legal Counsel, Academic Researcher
• Japanese Applied Linguistics (MA) — 24 months · Japanese · $1,050,000/yr
  This program delves into the theoretical and practical aspects of Japanese language acquisition, teaching methodologies, and linguistic analysis, suitable for future educators and researchers.
  Field: Linguistics, Japanese Studies
  Career outcomes: Japanese Language Teacher, Linguist, Translator, Researcher

PhD Programs (12)

• Economics (PhD) — 36 months · Japanese · $800,000/yr · STEM
  This program offers rigorous training in economic theory, econometrics, and applied economics, preparing students for academic careers or high-level research positions in government and industry.
  Field: Economics
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Economist, Researcher, Central Bank Analyst
• Political Science (PhD) — 36 months · Japanese · $800,000/yr
  A research-intensive program focusing on advanced theories and methodologies in political science, enabling students to conduct original research and contribute to the academic field.
  Field: Political Science
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Political Scientist, Policy Advisor, Researcher
• Global Japanese Studies (PhD) — 36 months · English · $800,000/yr
  This program offers an in-depth, interdisciplinary approach to Japanese culture, history, literature, and society from a global perspective, fostering advanced research skills.
  Field: Japanese Studies, Humanities
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Researcher, Cultural Specialist, Curator
• Computer Science and Communications Engineering (PhD) — 36 months · English · $850,000/yr · STEM
  An advanced research program focusing on cutting-edge topics in computer science, artificial intelligence, and communication networks, leading to significant contributions in the field.
  Field: Computer Science, Engineering
  Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Lead Engineer, Innovator
• PhD in Global Studies (PhD) — 36 months · English · $1,000,000/yr
  This doctoral program offers advanced research opportunities in interdisciplinary global issues, allowing students to contribute original scholarship to their chosen field.
  Field: Global Studies
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Researcher, Think Tank Analyst, International Consultant
• PhD in Science and Engineering (PhD) — 36 months · English · $1,050,000/yr · STEM
  A research-intensive program covering various engineering and scientific disciplines, enabling students to conduct cutting-edge research and contribute to technological advancements.
  Field: Engineering
  Career outcomes: University Professor, R&D Engineer, Research Scientist, Innovator
• PhD in Law (PhD) — 36 months · Japanese · $950,000/yr
  A research-oriented program for those seeking to contribute original legal scholarship, focusing on specific areas of law such as constitutional law, international law, or civil law.
  Field: Law
  Career outcomes: Legal Scholar, University Professor, High-level Legal Advisor, Judge
• PhD in Economics (PhD) — 36 months · English · $1,000,000/yr · STEM
  A doctoral program for advanced economic research, allowing students to specialize in areas such as econometrics, macroeconomics, microeconomics, or international economics.
  Field: Economics
  Career outcomes: Economist, University Professor, Researcher, Policy Advisor
• Economics (PhD) — 36 months · Japanese · $800,000/yr · STEM
  This program offers rigorous training in economic theory, econometrics, and applied economics, preparing students for academic careers or high-level research positions in government and industry.
  Field: Economics
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Economist, Researcher, Central Bank Analyst
• Political Science (PhD) — 36 months · Japanese · $800,000/yr
  A research-intensive program focusing on advanced theories and methodologies in political science, enabling students to conduct original research and contribute to the academic field.
  Field: Political Science
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Political Scientist, Policy Advisor, Researcher
• Global Japanese Studies (PhD) — 36 months · English · $800,000/yr
  This program offers an in-depth, interdisciplinary approach to Japanese culture, history, literature, and society from a global perspective, fostering advanced research skills.
  Field: Japanese Studies, Humanities
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Researcher, Cultural Specialist, Curator
• Computer Science and Communications Engineering (PhD) — 36 months · English · $850,000/yr · STEM
  An advanced research program focusing on cutting-edge topics in computer science, artificial intelligence, and communication networks, leading to significant contributions in the field.
  Field: Computer Science, Engineering
  Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Lead Engineer, Innovator

Scholarships & Tuition at Waseda University

Annual tuition for international students: $14,000 – $22,000/year

✅ Waseda University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of Waseda University

• National Ranking: #2 in Japan
• QS World University Ranking: #196
• Times Higher Education (THE): #801
• Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #601
• Ranking tier: Top 200
• Research output: Very High

Campus & Facilities at Waseda University

• Student housing available
• Sports facilities available
• Disability support available
• Campus type: Multiple Campuses
• Housing cost: ~$70000/month

Key Highlights

• Prestigious Tokyo research institution
• Founded 1882, academic excellence
• Robotics pioneer, WABOT project
• Extensive English-taught programs
• Diverse international student body
• Vibrant Shinjuku campus location

Accreditation

• Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
• Japan University Accreditation Association (JUAA)
• AACSB
• EQUIS

Fields of Study at Waseda University

• Political Science
• Economics
• Law
• Engineering
• Literature

Notable Alumni

• Haruki Murakami
• Fumio Kishida
• Masaru Ibuka
• Tadashi Yanai
• Masayoshi Son

Frequently Asked Questions about Waseda University

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