Graduate School ofHumanities

DEGREE
  • Master of Arts
  • Doctor of Literature
CAREERS
  • Teaching and research, public service, tourism, information technology and journalism
DEPARTMENT
  • Philosophy
COURSES
  • International Master's Program /
    Doctorate in Japanese Humanities (IMAP / IDOC)
APPLICATION PERIOD
  • Research StudentsApril Admission: February, every year
    October Admission: September, every year

    * You have to submit 4 months before the deadline if you live overseas.

  • Master’s ProgramApril Admission: September, every year
    October Admission: March, every year
  • Doctoral ProgramApril Admission: September, every year
    October Admission: March, every year

OVERVIEW

The International Master's Program (IMAP) and International Doctorate (IDOC) in Japanese Humanities are the only two graduate programs conducted in English within Kyushu University’s Graduate School of Humanities. Each year, a select group of international and Japanese students is admitted. These MA and PhD candidates study with specialists in Japanese art history and architecture, history, literature, religion, and other facets of the humanities. Students enroll in rigorous seminars, many of which incorporate study at cultural and historical sites within Japan.

The IMAP and IDOC programs are characterized by closely supervised instruction and small seminars customized to meet the long-term academic goals of each student. Seminars taught by primary faculty generally emphasize premodern Japan and its relationship to East Asia. These are supplemented by courses offered by affiliated and guest faculty in topics ranging from Japanese film to archaeology. There are also courses in field-specific methodologies, research methods, and premodern languages (bungo and kanbun).

All IMAP and IDOC students are required to write a thesis in English. Depending on their proficiency in Japanese, MA candidates may select additional courses from the Graduate School of Humanities or other graduate schools within the university; PhD candidates are required to enroll in graduate courses taught in Japanese.

Student’s Voice

What is your research about?
I am investigating women’s involvement in the cultural transmission of Aikido via an ethnographic study of a local dojo organization. Through interviews and participant observation, I hope to clarify our understanding of how a traditional process continues across generations. This topic spans the disciplines of anthropology and gender studies, so discussion with scholars in both fields has shaped my qualitative methodology and analysis. Specifically, a lecture series developed by my advisor allowed me to consult senior researchers who also have done fieldwork. This cross-field input has strengthened my approach to demonstrating the impact of societal roles on cultural practices.
What is an advantage of Kyushu University?
Although I was initially worried about returning to school after 8 years, the professors in the IMAP program take pains to meet each student’s research needs to the best of their ability, whether that is in regards to their background or field of study. I have been able to work with and exchange ideas with students in various fields, all over the world.
photo
LILLY ALANNAH GRAY
(From the USA)

GET MORE INFORMATION

Website

Related Contact: Student Office

E-mail: jbkkyomu1lt@jimu.kyushu-u.ac.jp