Nagoya University

History of Academic Freedom
Nagoya University was founded in 1871 as a temporary hospital and medical school. In 1939, it became the last of the seven "Imperial Universities" established in Japan. Its relatively late establishment had the effect of drawing a large number of outstanding young scientists, particularly in physics and chemistry. Because these professors were not regarded with the deference given to older, established professors, an academic culture flourished where students were encouraged to challenge existing bodies of knowledge, to forge their own thoughts and ideas. This gave rise to an open and vibrant atmosphere where professors and students were able to interact without the formal and rigid seniority system that had been the norm at most Japanese universities. In 2004, Nagoya University established itself as a National University Corporation in its move towards autonomy. Today, it has 13 graduate schools, 9 undergraduate schools, 3 research institutes and 18 research centers. With a student population of 16,395 (9,946 undergraduate and 6,449 graduate students), the University's campuses have a strong international flavor with research and education conducted at the global level. The flagship departments are in the basic Natural and Physical Sciences, Agricultural Science, Engineering, and Medicine. The University also boasts strong Social Science faculties, notably in Law, Economics, Humanities and International Development.

Research Intensive University
Academic freedom and education that emphasizes self-initiative and creativity form the basic combination whereby Nagoya University produces some of the world's leading scientific achievements. Its internationally-recognized research capabilities set it apart. In University Ranking 2010, compiled by the Asahi Shimbun, Nagoya University ranked 2nd and 3rd among Japanese universities in terms of number of patents registered in the United States and in Japan between 1999 and 2008. Further, Nagoya University continues to be among those selected, through a competitive process, to receive significant government grants, most recently through the 21st-Century Center of Excellence (COE) and Global COE Programs. Nagoya University is a research-intensive university whose achievements are recognized worldwide. Indeed, four of the seven Japanese Nobel Prize winners since the beginning of the 21st century are graduates or professors of Nagoya University. Dr. Ryoji Noyori in 2001 and Dr. Osamu Shimomura in 2008 each won a Nobel Prize in Chemistry, while Dr. Toshihide Maskawa and Dr. Makoto Kobayashi shared the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2008.

Stimulating Intellectual Environment
The environment at Nagoya University encourages students to fully pursue their deep thirst for knowledge. This is attested by the high percentage of undergraduates who chose to continue with postgraduate studies-about 50% of the entire graduating class of 2007, with the highest proportions from the Schools of Science and Agricultural Science (70%) and the School of Engineering (90%).
In 1993, Nagoya University integrated the undergraduate curriculum combining the multi-disciplinary general education required of all students, together with advanced specialization in a major field of study. Students have the option to take specialized lectures and seminars relating to their majors in as early as their first year. In addition, the cross-over format requires humanities students to take basic courses in natural sciences, and natural science students to take basic humanities courses. This inter-disciplinary arrangement helps students develop comprehensive and multifaceted perspectives. Ultimately, Nagoya University's fundamental objective is to cultivate what it terms "courageous intellectuals", that is, individuals who are able to harness their courage, curiosity, and creativity to fully, yet responsibly, exploit their freedom with their research and educational pursuits. Its multi-disciplinary curriculum is designed to cultivate ethical leaders who are able to develop innovative solutions, through inquiry and analysis, with strong communication skills to be productive members of the global environment.

Global Presence
Nagoya University offers an environment for students to develop their ability to interact internationally. It has academic exchange agreements with 270 universities and research institutes in 45 countries and regions around the world. Many students take full advantage of these international exchange programs, as they return from a semester or year abroad with enhanced cultural sensitivities and language capabilities they can integrate into their education and research. Conversely, Nagoya University receives exchange students through its Program for Academic Exchange (NUPACE). Exchange students receive intensive Japanese language education and participate in both academic and cultural activities. Many go on to pursue degrees at Nagoya University. Nagoya University's reputation as an outstanding research university has attracted students from around the world. Currently, of the 16,395 total enrollment, 1,344 or approximately 9% are international students. The Admissions Office has a comprehensive application review process that takes into account high school or secondary school grades, essays, recommendation letters, and extracurricular activities as well as their plan of study. The initial selection is followed by an interview, which can be conducted in Japan or abroad. In short, Nagoya University seeks self-motivated students who are able to challenge their own courage to find their way...a new way!

Nagoya-A Vibrant Metropolis
Nagoya is Japan's fourth largest city with all the conveniences of a large metropolis, including an international airport with direct flights to the world's major destinations. A lively cultural scene, shops, restaurants and leisure activities for all tastes make it an exciting place to live. The Chubu region, located in the heart of Japan, between Tokyo (1 1/2 hours away by bullet train) and Kyoto (1 hour), has played a central role in the nation's history. Though it has long been known as a flourishing center for commerce and industry, it was also the home of Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Tokugawa Ieyasu, three military leaders who unified Japan over 400 years ago. Nagoya Castle, originally built by Tokugawa and famous for the golden dolphins found on its donjon, serves as the symbol of the region. Today, Nagoya constitutes the nerve center of the Chubu Industrial Zone, an amalgamation of both traditional and modern industries. In 2009, the GDP of the Greater Nagoya area ranked 18th worldwide right behind Turkey and the Netherlands. With Toyota Motor Corporation headquartered in neighboring Toyota City, and Honda and Brother Industries having a strong presence in the area, the Chubu zone accounts for approximately 60% of Japan's trade.

Convenient and Affordable
Many students either walk or bike to campus as there are myriad housing options close to the main campus. Monthly rent can be as low as 30,000 Yen (approximately US$300) and dormitory space can be guaranteed for all international students the first 6 months after their arrival. As a national university, Nagoya University's tuition fees are relatively low-currently, approximately US$5,700 per academic year (2 semesters)-making it 3 to 4 times cheaper than comparable institutions in the US, the UK and Australia.

Large Campus Bustling with Activity
The main campus of Nagoya University is huge, unlike many Japanese universities, and blooming with trees and lush with greenery. Several outdoor athletic fields and indoor facilities host the games and activities of the American football team, the University baseball team, the Karate and Kendo teams, and approximately fifty other athletic teams and student associations. Cultural activities, both modern and traditional, are also a dynamic part of student life. They include a manga club, a tea ceremony circle, a traditional dance group and numerous musical groups such as choirs, a-cappella groups and the Nagoya University Symphony Orchestra. There are other more eclectic student groups such as a Human-Powered Airplane-Making Team and the Railway Fan Club.

Bright Future
Over 90% of Nagoya University's undergraduate students have job offers prior to their graduation. Internship programs allow students to define their career goals and form relationships with regional and multinational corporations. Toyota, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Denso, Panasonic, Hitachi, and Canon are among the multinational companies that regularly hire our graduates.