Our Initiatives and Strategies
Hitotsubashi University is implementing the fostering of global human resources with the four aspects listed below.(links in the text will open in a separate window when clicked. Please note that some of the links are in Japanese only)
Specialized Knowledge
At Hitotsubashi University, we strive to cultivate students’ abilities to find solutions for global issues based on our long-established traditions emphasizing practical learning. One of our most distinct and outstanding features is our small-sized seminars, which are open to students in all Faculties from their first or second year. Through these seminars, students apply themselves closely to class and develop problem-solving skills. Furthermore, students are able to take classes in different Faculties as well, not only in general education subjects, but also in specialized subjects. Many classes are held in English(1) by foreign faculty members and those with overseas teaching and/or research experience. Hitotsubashi University is proud to showcase its unique character and strengths as a comprehensive university specializing in the social sciences, fostering individuals able to pursue active roles in global society.
Communication Skills
The small-scale, focused and interactive education represented by seminars is essential to promote active learning and develop discussion and presentation skills. Moreover, our English Communication Skills course is offered in conjunction with the British Council and has become a compulsory subject for first year students since 2013. Students are divided based on their skill level, and by the conclusion of the course consistently demonstrate sharp improvement in their practical communication skills in English. The Faculty of Commerce and Management has their own custom English program known as PACE (Practical Applications for Communicative English).
Career Planning through Collaboration among Industry, Academia and Government
Hitotsubashi University offers various opportunities such as seminars, short-term study abroad programs, and overseas internships in order to develop students’ capacities to address global issues. The Josuikai Alumni Association makes a significant contribution to supporting these programs. The Josui Seminars, a series of endowed lectures on various themes offered by the Association, are led by business leaders active both domestically and overseas. The Resonance Course in Collaborative Humanities-Sciences encourages students to cultivate their interdisciplinary skills through combining myriad forms of knowledge and information, such as advanced science or technology and the social structures in various nations.
Practicing Global Skills
True global skills can be displayed to their fullest extent only through experience in the real world. Hitotsubashi University has emphasized the importance of study abroad since its foundation, and is equipped with top-tier study abroad programs and support systems, excelling both in content and in numbers of dispatched students. The most significant characteristic of our study abroad programs is that financial aid is awarded to all students who go overseas, by utilizing available programs including language training. No small number of students take advantage of multiple programs, such as pursuing a long-term study abroad or overseas internship, after polishing their language and communication skills through a short-term language program.
- Notes
- (1) Aside from HGP (Hitotsubashi University Global Education Program), each Faculty also offers some classes in English.For updated syllabi, please consult “Cels” our online information system. Visitors are able to log-in to the system without needing an ID or password.
