Hokkaido University

Hokkaido University, or "Hokudai" as it is commonly known, is a prestigious public research university located in Sapporo, Japan. Established in 1876 as Sapporo Agricultural College, it is the fifth-oldest government-authorized university in Japan and a former Imperial University. With a commitment to academic excellence and a motto of "Boys, Be Ambitious," Hokkaido University offers a unique and enriching educational experience for students from around the globe.

Academics

Hokkaido University is a comprehensive institution with 12 undergraduate faculties and 21 graduate schools, emphasizing graduate-level education. The university is particularly strong in fields such as agriculture, fisheries, forestry, and environmental science, reflecting its location. It offers numerous multidisciplinary programs, allowing students to engage in diverse research while specializing in their chosen fields. The teaching approach focuses on nurturing well-rounded individuals, enhancing cognitive abilities, and expanding knowledge across various disciplines.

International Students

Hokkaido University provides extensive support services for international students, including a dedicated International Student Support Desk for counseling and advice, and a Supporter System where current students assist newcomers with settling in. The university offers several degree programs taught entirely in English, such as the Integrated Science Program (ISP) for natural sciences and the Modern Japanese Studies Program (MJSP) for a comprehensive education in Japanese language and society. Organizations like the Hokkaido University International Students Association (HUISA) and the Hokkaido University International Women's Club (IWC) foster cultural integration and provide various activities and support. The international student population at Hokkaido University continues to grow, with support available for those on Japanese Government scholarships, foreign government scholarships, and self-supported students.

Campus & Location

The main campus of Hokkaido University is situated in the heart of Sapporo, a vibrant city with a population of 1.9 million. Often voted as one of the most beautiful campuses in Japan, the Sapporo campus is an expansive green oasis spanning approximately 180 hectares, with only 12% occupied by buildings. This allows for abundant green spaces, farms, forests, and pathways, making it a popular spot for both students and locals throughout the year. The campus is conveniently located just north of Sapporo Station, offering easy access to city life and nearby attractions.

Career Outcomes

Hokkaido University's Career Center offers a range of services to assist students with job hunting in Japan, including resume critiques, mock interviews, and career counseling. Seminars specifically for international students and support with internships are also provided. The university actively strengthens academia-industry collaboration through platforms like Inpart, connecting academic research with over 6,000 companies worldwide to accelerate the social implementation of research outcomes. The Institute for the Promotion of Business-Regional Collaboration and its Startup Creation Department also provide entrepreneurship education and support for university-launched startups. Individual career consultations are available in English or Japanese for master's and doctoral students and postdocs.