)Japan secured the 1st spot in the U.S. News & World Report Rankings 2023 for the most technologically advanced nations in the world.
The country is home to engineering marvels, namely the Tokyo Sky Tree, a staggering 634-meter tall structure defying earthquakes, and the Akashi Strait Bridge, the world’s longest suspension bridge. Thus, serving as a perfect launching pad for aspiring engineers. Explore the best engineering universities in Japan.
Table of Contents
- Why Study Engineering in Japan
- Best Engineering Universities in Japan
- Cost of Studying
- Application Process
- Documents Required
- Eligibility Criteria
- Scholarships for Engineering Universities in Japan
- Japanese Government MEXT Scholarship for Undergraduate, College of Technology, and Specialized Training College:
- Kyoto University Scholarships from Private Founders:
- Tohoku University President Fellowship:
- JASSO Monbukagakusho Honors Scholarship for Privately-Financed International Students:
- Hokkaido University President’s Fellowship:
Why Study Engineering in Japan
There are several reasons that make Japan the perfect choice to pursue higher education in the field of engineering and technology:
- High demand: The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry in Japan has predicted that the country will require 789,000 engineers by 2030. This indicates ample opportunities for aspirants across diverse industries.
- World-class universities: Japan is home to globally ranked universities that provide high-quality education in the realms of engineering with their reputed faculty and cutting-edge infrastructure. Around 80 universities appeared on Times Higher Education’s World University Rankings by Subject: Engineering 2024. This highlights the country’s commitment to preparing a workforce of skilled engineers.
- Attractive compensation: Engineers in Japan enjoy lucrative compensation. Starting yearly salaries for professionals can hover around ¥45,00,000 and rise to ¥75,00,000.
- Research opportunities: In addition to quality education, engineering universities in Japan offer a vibrant research ecosystem to students. This provides numerous opportunities to engage in cutting-edge projects, collaborate with top scholars, and gain hands-on experience in state-of-the-art laboratories.
- Cultural experience: Studying at universities in Japan will also give students a valuable opportunity to immerse themselves in the culture of the country. This will provide an opportunity for cross-cultural exchange and nurture a global perspective.
Best Engineering Universities in Japan
Here are the best engineering colleges in Japan as per the Times Higher Education World University Rankings (WUR) 2024 by subject: Engineering.
University Name | Location | THE WUR 2024- Engineering | Courses |
The University of Tokyo | Tokyo | 29 | Undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in engineering |
Kyoto University | Kyoto | 47 | Undergraduate programs in nuclear engineering, mechanical and systems engineering, and applied energy science and engineering. Master’s and doctoral programs in engineering. |
Tohoku University | Sendai City | 59 | Undergraduate programs in electrical engineering, mechanical and aerospace engineering, civil engineering and architecture, applied chemistry, chemical engineering and biomolecular engineering, and materials science and engineering. Graduate programs in mechanical systems engineering, aerospace engineering, robotics, quantum science and energy engineering, communication engineering, electrical engineering, and electronic engineering. |
Tokyo Institute of Technology (Tokyo Tech) | Tokyo | 64 | Undergraduate programs in mechanical, systems and control, electrical and electronic, information and communication, and industrial engineering. Graduate programs in mechanical, biomedical, electrical and electronic, systems and control, nuclear, and industrial engineering |
Kyushu University | Fukuoka City | 126–150 | Undergraduate programs in electrical engineering and computer science, civil engineering, and mechanical and aerospace engineering. Graduate programs in civil, chemical, urban, and environmental engineering, naval architecture and ocean engineering, nuclear engineering, earth resources engineering, applied quantum physics and nuclear engineering, and mechanical engineering |
Osaka University | Osaka City | 126–150 | Undergraduate programs in materials and manufacturing science and mechanical engineering Graduate programs in mechanical engineering, aerospace and marine-system engineering, materials science and engineering, electrical engineering and information science, and quantum and radiation engineering. |
Nagoya University | Nagoya | 176–200 | Undergraduate programs in physical science and engineering, materials science and engineering, mechanical and aerospace engineering, civil engineering and architecture Graduate programs in chemical systems engineering, materials process engineering, information and communication engineering |
Hokkaido University | Hokkaido | 251–300 | Undergraduate and Graduate programs in electricals and electronic engineering, bioengineering and bioinformatics, materials engineering, civil engineering |
Waseda University | Tokyo | 251–300 | Undergraduate engineering program in computer science/ Graduate programs in fundamental science and engineering, creative science and engineering, advanced science and engineering departments |
University of Tsukuba | Tsukuba | 301–400 | Bachelor’s program in Interdisciplinary Engineering |
Cost of Studying
Here are the approximate costs of studying engineering in Japan.
Type of Program | Average Annual Fees |
Bachelor’s programs | ¥6,35,400 |
Master’s programs | ¥5,35,800 |
Doctoral programs | ¥5,20,800 |
Source: Official University Websites
Application Process
The application process may vary across universities. However, for most universities, candidates must fill out an application form online. They will have to provide all the necessary details and upload relevant documents.
Once all the formalities have been completed, applicants can submit the form. The applications are screened, and then the results are declared. Selected candidates will enroll at the institute after paying the required fees.
Documents Required
Some documents required for admission include the following:
- Color photograph.
- Statement of Purpose
- List of scholarships, prizes, awards, and other recognitions, if any.
- Academic transcripts and mark sheets.
- Letters of recommendation.
- Language proficiency certificate.
Eligibility Criteria
To pursue higher education at Japan’s engineering colleges, students need to meet the minimum eligibility criteria. This can vary across universities, and the general eligibility criteria include the following:
- Candidates must have completed 12 years of schooling or equivalent to pursue undergraduate programs. They must possess a high school diploma or equivalent qualifications like International Baccalaureate and GCE A- Level.
- Applicants must have completed 16 years of formal education and at least earned a 3-year bachelor’s degree to be eligible for master’s programs.
- For PhD programs, students must have a master’s degree. Individuals who have completed a bachelor’s degree with two years of additional study at a research institute or university and possess the same level of research skills as a master’s degree holder are also eligible for a PhD.
- TOEFL/IELTS scores must be available to prove English proficiency.
- Though not mandatory, candidates may be asked to provide GRE scores.
Note: Many universities have their own entrance examinations and screening procedures that candidates must clear to gain admission into engineering programs.
Scholarships for Engineering Universities in Japan
Receiving a scholarship can substantially reduce the financial burden of pursuing engineering studies in Japan. Here are some of the scholarship options for students in Japan:
Japanese Government MEXT Scholarship for Undergraduate, College of Technology, and Specialized Training College:
This scholarship is available for Indian students who wish to pursue engineering at various levels of study. Students born on/after the 2nd of April, 1999, and at least 18 years old can apply for this scholarship.
Applicants must have finished 12 years of schooling and be willing to learn Japanese. During the application process, students must submit a health certificate attesting that no mental/physical conditions hinder their stay in Japan, as well as academic transcripts, English proficiency certificates, and recommendation letters.
The scholarship duration is five years (including one year of preparatory education in Japanese and other subjects).
Benefits:
The recipients of the scholarship will receive ¥117,000 per month with a supplemental regional allowance of ¥2–3,000 for conducting studies in specially designated areas. Moreover, the fees for tuition and entrance examinations will be covered.
An economy-class airline ticket to Japan will also be provided as part of the scholarship.
Kyoto University Scholarships from Private Founders:
Kyoto University nominates students every year for 60 private scholarship courses. For every program, one to two students are selected to avail of the scholarship following matriculation.
Furthermore, some courses will require students to have basic Japanese proficiency to receive this award.
Benefits:
Selected candidates will receive ¥30,000-180,000 per month.
Tohoku University President Fellowship:
The scholarship is offered to meritorious students enrolling for the undergraduate
International Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering course at Tohoku University.
Benefits:
The scholarship covers the tuition fee for four years and the cost of the entrance examination.
JASSO Monbukagakusho Honors Scholarship for Privately-Financed International Students:
This scholarship is offered to students who are privately financed and facing difficulties in managing the cost of education in Japan. It is awarded for 12 months, and the candidate should be enrolled as a full-time graduate or undergraduate student.
The applicants must have a GPA of 2.30 or higher at the undergraduate/graduate level in their previous year of study. Moreover, the candidate should not be receiving any other Japanese/foreign scholarship.
Benefits:
The scholarship offers ¥48,000 each month at the graduate/undergraduate level. Those enrolled in Japanese language institutions will receive ¥30,000 each month.
Hokkaido University President’s Fellowship:
This scholarship is for international students enrolling in doctoral, master’s, or professional programs. Applicants should have a strong academic record with an enthusiasm for Japanese culture.
They should be alumni or present students of universities that have MoUs on Student Exchange or Inter-University Exchange Agreements with Hokkaido University. Moreover, they must have secured GPAs in the top 25% of their class in their home country.
Benefits-
Awardees of the scholarship will receive a monthly stipend of ¥100,000 along with a payment of 220,000 yen (this is ¥70,000 for those who are research students). This will be paid in the enrollment month with another ¥35,000 in the next April and October for covering travel expenses and miscellaneous costs.
If you wish to study in Japan's best engineering universities, then the information above can help you prepare for your educational journey. It is important that you prepare a list of the admissions and documents required to avoid missing out on anything while applying. Here’s wishing you the best for a fulfilling journey towards becoming an engineer.
Disclaimer: All course fees mentioned above are subject to change
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FAQs
Can I study engineering in Japan in English?
Yes, there are several institutions offering engineering courses that are taught in English. You will not face any issues in terms of linguistic barriers in this case.
Which job is most in demand in Japan?
Some of the in-demand jobs in Japan include senior counsel-legal, DevOps engineer, financial planning and analysis manager, data scientist, and HR manager.
Is it difficult to get a job in Japan?
The Japanese job market may be competitive, and candidates should always carefully note the eligibility for open positions before applying. The country has a high employment rate of 61.2%, as per Statista, and competition is naturally high for various positions.
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