Graduate School of the Humanities

Major in Japanese Language and Literature (Master's Program / Doctoral Program)
Major in English (Master's Program / Doctoral Program)
Major in Philosophy (Master's Program / Doctoral Program)
Major in History (Master's Program / Doctoral Program)
Major in Geography (Master's Program / Doctoral Program)
Major in Sociology (Master's Program / Doctoral Program)
Major in Psychology (Master's Program / Doctoral Program)

The student can choose one of seven areas of intensive study designed with an interdisciplinary approach in mind.

The purpose of Graduate School of the Humanities

The goal of the Graduate School of Humanities is to train researchers with highly creative research and development abilities, who will become the core of a variety of research institutions in the production industries or public institution fields, and of educational institutions, university teaching staff with confident research and educational capabilities, professionals with a high level of specialized knowledge, and intellectuals who can support our knowledge-based society in a variety of ways.

Admission policy

In the Graduate School of Humanities (Master’s Program), there are 7 majors which focus on the fields of humanities and social sciences, and we aim to find the answer to the question “What is human?” from multiple angles. We are looking for individuals who possess extensive knowledge, a rich variety of emotions, sharp powers of reasoning and fundamental academic skills, which are all necessary to achieve this aim, and also, by using these attributes as a foundation, gain specialized knowledge, and become researchers or contribute to society as highly skilled professionals.
In the Graduate School of Humanities (Doctoral Program), there are 7 majors which focus on the fields of humanities and social sciences, and we aim to find the answer to the question “What is human?” from multiple angles. We are looking for individuals who wish to utilize their extensive knowledge, rich variety of emotions, sharp powers of reasoning and specialized knowledge, which are all necessary to achieve this aim, as a foundation to contribute proactively on the forefront of the academic world as researchers, or to utilize their specialized knowledge and ability to contribute to society as highly skilled professionals.

Major in Japanese Language and Literature

The Japanese language and literature major was inaugurated in 1971, and has produced many graduates since then. As of 2013, lectures and seminars for this major were taught by 19 staff members.

Courses on Ancient Japanese, Medieval Japanese, Early Modern Japanese, and Modern Japanese are offered, while the courses in Japanese literature cover the Ancient, Chuko, Medieval, Early Modern, and Modern periods. Lectures in classical Chinese literature, creative writing and literary culture give students additional and unique perspectives on Japanese literature. After graduation from the School, a wide range of career options are open. Some graduates who have completed the master's program begin their careers teaching in high schools and preparatory schools, taking in the editorial departments of publishing houses, or working at cultural institutes, while graduates of the doctoral program go on to become university, high school or preparatory school teachers, publishing editors, writers, and so on. In recent years, an increasing number of students have received doctoral degrees (in literature) after submitting a dissertation in the doctoral program.

At present, the Japanese language and literature major has about 30 graduate students in the master’s and doctoral programs, of which approximately 40 percent are from overseas. Graduate students’ papers are published in two journals − Senshu Kokubun and Bunken Ronshu.

The Japanese language and literature major has attracted graduates from a variety of universities throughout Japan. If you have the drive to succeed, you, too, are welcome to join this program.

Policy with Regard to Conferment of Degrees

Master's Program

The Master’s Program confers Master’s (Letters) degrees on those students who satisfy the following prerequisites.
  1. Earn the number of credits required by the Graduate School of Letters
  2. Submit in a master’s thesis, under the guidance of an academic counselor, the technical research results that come from in-depth studies of a topic of research based on a wide variety of accumulated data associated with the Japanese language, Japanese literature and culture, and a great reservoir of knowledge.

Doctoral Program

The Doctoral Program confers a Ph.D. (Letters) degree upon those students who satisfy the following prerequisites.
  1. Earn the number of credits required by the Graduate School of Letters
  2. Submit in a doctoral dissertation, under the guidance of a counselor, the results of research that further deepen the knowledge gained in a master’s thesis, and based on data and arguments with regard to a research topic associated with the Japanese language, Japanese literature and culture, conduct research that elicits cutting-edge insights.

Policy with Regard to Curriculum Development and Implementation

Master's Program

Curriculum

The curriculum of the Master’s Program is broadly categorized into the three areas of Japanese language, Japanese literature and Japanese culture. Under the guidance of expert academic counselors, the curriculum enables students the extensive and systematic acquisition of knowledge of related fields with an emphasis on respective areas of specialization.

Features

Specialized knowledge and other information are acquired with a combination of lectures and exercises of the major, and through systematic learning of related fields, students can attain the necessary and sufficient knowledge required for the Master’s Program.

Doctoral Program

Curriculum

The Japanese language and literature major consists of lectures and exercises that offer advanced specialization in its various areas (Japanese language, Japanese literature and Japanese culture).

Features

In the thesis development process for the application of a doctoral degree, advice for research is given appropriately so that students will come to master advanced and specialized knowledge, and cultivate capabilities for creative research.

Admission policy

Master’s Program

The Major in Japanese Language and Literature (Master’s Program) offered by the Graduate School of Humanities aims to nurture researchers and teachers, as well as talented individuals who wish to contribute to society with highly specialized knowledge. Hence, we are looking for potential students who fulfill the following requirements.
Qualification and skill requirements for enrollment in the Major in Japanese Language and Literature (Master’s Program) offered by the Graduate School of Humanities
(1) Individuals who are teeming with an intellectual sense of curiosity, and have a flexible mentality towards Japanese language and culture
(2) Individuals with the ability to express themselves in a variety of ways and comprehend matters on a wide range of issues, and possess high communication skills
(3) Individuals who can make use of the knowledge and interests they have gained to bring about research achievements or creations.

Doctoral Program

The Major in Japanese Language and Literature (Doctoral Program) offered by the Graduate School of Humanities not only aims to nurture researchers of Japanese language and literature, but also to equip talented individuals with advanced knowledge and groom them to utilize their expertise to contribute actively in society. Hence, we are looking for potential students who fulfill the following requirements.
Qualification and skill requirements for enrollment in the Major in Japanese Language and Literature (Doctoral Program) offered by the Graduate School of Humanities
(1)Individuals who possess the ability to expand innovative research by thinking creatively, while building upon what they’ve learned in the Master’s Program
(2)Individuals who have the ability to express themselves in a variety of ways, comprehend matters on a wide range of issues, and possess high communication skills, and have the desire to contribute to society
(3)Individuals who desire to work on far-sighted research activities, such as collaborative research with universities in Japan and overseas.

Major in English

The graduate program for English is subdivided into five fields: British Literature, American Literature, British and American Studies, English Linguistics, and Applied Linguistics. Of particular note is our specialist staff in each of these five areas, something that is rarely seen in any other graduate school in this country, and something that is definitely a striking advantage offered by our major. We also have a native English speaker on our staff who does everything he can to help students further their English abilities. Having such an excellent teaching staff in all of the fields within the Major in English means that all of the needs of students can be met.

Each of the five fields within the Major in English focuses on a different aspect of English. The area of British Literature is divided into the genres of poetry and drama, while the area of American Literature covers literature from the 19th to the 21st centuries. The area of British and American Studies offers subjects in both British and American cultural studies. The range of subjects covered within the area of English Linguistics is broad, including Old and Middle English, linguistic theory, and phonetics. The area of Applied Linguistics offers the subjects of communication studies, TEFL/TESL, and teacher training.

Students of the Major in English pursue their own research interests with the goal of producing a master’s thesis, written in either English or Japanese. Graduates who have completed the master’s program may begin careers as school teachers, or they may continue their studies and research in the doctoral program.

The School of the Humanities also maintains arrangements for studying abroad at a number of foreign universities. By taking advantage of these overseas study opportunities, students may enhance their studies and improve their English skills.

This program is appropriate not only for students who want to become scholars or teachers but also for current members of the teaching profession who wish to enhance their skills or want to broaden their general English ability.

Policy with Regard to Curriculum Development and Implementation

Master's Program

Curriculum

The curriculum for a Master’s Program major in English is categorized into the four areas of English and American literature, English and American studies, English language and applied linguistics. Based on such categorization, the curriculum enables students the broad and systematic acquisition of knowledge with a focus on areas of specialization and related fields.

Features

The curriculum enables students to attain specialized knowledge and skills with a combination of lectures and exercises of the major, as well as to acquire sufficient knowledge required for the Master’s Program through systematic learning of related fields.

Doctoral Program

Curriculum

The curriculum in the Doctoral Program for the major of English consists of the four areas of English and American literature, English and American studies, English language and applied linguistics, and is designed with lectures and exercises that offer a high degree specialization.

Features

In the process for dissertation development to apply for a doctoral degree, advice for research is given in such a way that students will come to master advanced and specialized knowledge, and cultivate capabilities for original research.

Policy with Regard to Conferment of Degrees

Master's Program

The Master’s Program confers Master’s (Letters) degrees upon those students who satisfy the following prerequisites.
  1. Earn the number of credits required by the Graduate School of Letters
  2. Be recognized as having acquired comprehensive specialized knowledge with regard to the English language and the culture and literature of the English speaking world, and based on persistent research under the guidance of their academic supervisor, possess creativity and a high degree of research capabilities. Moreover, they must submit these research results as a master’s thesis, and then pass an oral examination.

Doctoral Program

The Doctoral Program confers a Ph.D. (Letters) degree upon those students who satisfy the following prerequisites.
  1. Earn the number of credits required by the Graduate School of Letters
  2. Be recognized for creative and new academic insights in a field of specialization associated with the English language, or English or American literature. Also, submit a doctoral dissertation that includes advanced research results that contribute to a greater understanding of that field of specialization, as well as pass an oral examination.

Admission policy

Master’s Program

The Major in English (Master’s Program) offered by the Graduate School of Humanities aims not only to nurture researchers and teachers who possess highly specialized knowledge, but also to groom talented individuals who are able to make full use of their English ability in a wide range of situations. Hence, we are looking for potential students who fulfill the following requirements.
Qualification and skill requirements for enrollment in the Major in English (Master’s Program) offered by the Graduate School of Humanities
(1)Individuals who are strong in gathering, comprehending and processing information, and can construct information logically
(2)Individuals who are teeming with an intellectual sense of curiosity, and desire to proactively gain specialized knowledge
(3)Individuals who wish to communicate independently with others, and gain the ability to present their learning achievements

Doctoral Program

The Major in English (Doctoral Program)offered by the Graduate School of Humanities aims not only to nurture researchers and teachers who possess highly specialized knowledge, but also to groom talented individuals who are able to make full use of their English ability in a wide range of situations. In addition, we also aim to send talented individuals with a wide range of potential into society. Hence, we are looking for potential students who fulfill the following requirements.
Qualification and skill requirements for enrollment in the Major in English (Doctoral Program) offered by the Graduate School of Humanities
(1)Individuals who are strong in gathering, comprehending and processing information, and can construct information logically
(2)Individuals who are teeming with an intellectual sense of curiosity and desire to proactively gain specialized knowledge
(3)Individuals who wish to communicate independently with others, and attain a high level of ability to present their learning achievements

Major in Philosophy

The major in philosophy comprises six subjects: ancient and medieval philosophy, modern and contemporary philosophy, philosophical methodology, practical philosophy, history of ideas in Japan, and the basics of humanity. Both lectures and seminars are offered in the subjects listed above in both the master’s and doctoral programs. The content of the subjects should be more or less clear from their titles. Please note that a number of courses in modern and contemporary philosophy will be taught so as to thoroughly cover British, German and French thought in this area. The basics of humanities class was added for students who want to study humanities in general in response to the growing reach of the undergraduate course in philosophy and the humanities (currently taught in the School of Literature, Department of Philosophy).

Each of the various subjects offered obviously has a general direction in which it points. However, the specific content of classes and direction will, of course, vary depending on the professor’s area of specialization and the wishes of the students. In short, the main determining factor is whatever is of most interest to the individuals concerned. The best way to discover that is to look at the course outline. Philosophical research will generally involve one of two approaches: either a history of philosophy-oriented approach that seeks to investigate the thought of a specific philosopher, or an approach which consists of probing philosophical principles or independent theorizing. The approach the class adopts will be determined by the characteristics of the subject and the plan of the professor in charge.

Most investigators of philosophy tend to adopt the former approach, and you should remember that even the most systematic philosopher’s point of departure will be based on the achievements of previous scholars. The subjects in this major in Philosophy are extremely varied and can be approached from a variety of directions, depending on each professor and his or her subject.

Policy with Regard to Conferment of Degrees

Master's Program

The Master’s Program confers Master’s (Philosophy) degrees upon those students who satisfy the following prerequisites.
  1. Earn the number of credits required by the Graduate School of Letters
  2. Submit a suitable thesis as a master in the discipline of philosophy, and pass a final examination.
  3. Possess an engrained capacity to develop persuasive observations that can withstand the scrutiny of public discussion, having acquired a systematic knowledge across the various fields of philosophy and having built a linguistic backing for each specialty.

Doctoral Program

The Doctoral Program confers a Ph.D. (Philosophy) degree upon those students who satisfy the following prerequisites.
  1. Earn the number of credits required by the Graduate School of Letters
  2. Be recognized for creative and new insights that surpass international academic research standards in fields of specialization associated with philosophy, and submit a doctoral dissertation that includes advanced research results that contribute to a greater understanding in the academic world, as well as pass a final examination.

Policy with Regard to Curriculum Development and Implementation

Master's Program

Curriculum

In the Master’s Program with a major in philosophy, the curriculum consists of ancient and medieval philosophy, modern and contemporary philosophy, philosophical methodology, practical philosophy and the history of ideas in Japan. From these subjects, students can acquire an extensive range of knowledge with regard to philosophy and intellectual thinking in line with their interests. Moreover, together with honing their oratory and debating skills through the regularly scheduled meetings of the Senshu University Philosophical Society , students are able to receive advice with regard to the direction and progress of their research.

Features

The major, primarily consisting of exercises, offers students the opportunity to acquire specialized knowledge and the capacity for philosophical thought through individual guidance provided by assigned professors and the thorough reading of texts.

Doctoral Program

Curriculum

The philosophy major curriculum is designed with exercises that offer a high degree of specialization in various fields. In addition, together with sharpening their public speaking and debating skills through the regularly scheduled meetings of the Senshu University Philosophical Society , students are able to receive counsel with regard to the direction and progress of their research.

Features

In the dissertation development process for the application of a doctoral degree, suitable advice is provided so that students will come to master advanced and specialized knowledge, and cultivate capabilities for creative research.

Admission policy

Master’s Program

The Major in Philosophy (Master’s Program) offered by the Graduate School of Humanities trains students to decipher each of the basic literatures of western philosophies, Japanese ideologies and the study of the arts from ancient till modern times in its original language. By doing so, we hope to achieve the educational goal of building up the foundation examining the various problems facing modern society by scrutinizing the root of those problems. Hence, we are looking for potential students who fulfill the following requirements.
Qualification and skill requirements for enrollment in the Major in Philosophy (Master’s Program) offered by the Graduate School of Humanities
(1)Individuals who have the desire to examine matters from theoretical and historical perspectives
(2)Individuals with the humility to learn from their seniors
(3)Individuals who are able to state their position clearly and are thorough enough to convince others of it

Doctoral Program

The Major in Philosophy (Doctoral Program) offered by the Graduate School of Humanities trains students to decipher each of the basic literatures of western philosophies, Japanese ideologies and the study of the arts from ancient till modern times in its original language. In addition, there is training on extensive reading for required documents, as well as debates with supervisors or peers, report writing and conference presentations. By doing so, we hope to achieve our educational goal of building up the foundation to examine the various problems facing modern society by scrutinizing the root of those problems, and to work towards finding a solution to them. Hence, we are looking for potential students who fulfill the following requirements.
Qualification and skill requirements for enrollment in the Major in Philosophy (Doctoral Program) offered by the Graduate School of Humanities
(1)Individuals with the desire to examine matters from theoretical, historical and philosophical perspectives
(2)Individuals with the humility to learn from their seniors, and the courage to form their own theories
(3)Individuals who are able to state their position clearly, and form theories to convince others of it

Major in History

​Graduate students pursuing MA or Ph.D. degrees in history will work with fourteen faculty members in the four major fields of teaching and research: (1)Asian archeology, (2) European and American histories, (3)Japanese history, and (4)other Asian histories. We also offer additional courses taught by nine adjunct professors whose special fields enrich our program. The features of our program include following.

1) We offer courses on ancient through modern/contemporary histories in all the major fields mentioned above in order for students to develop both depth and breadth of historical knowledge in ancient through contemporary world history while concentrating on his/her own research field.

2) We offer such courses as “Asian History III” (Islamic history), “Japanese History V” (gender history), and the history of the “European and American History IV” (French Revolution) in order for students to engage in themes of growing importance in the world.

3) We offer such subjects as “Asian Archeology I-II” and “East Asian Archeology I-III” in order to enhance students’ understanding of the history of Japan as an area of East Asia. In this respect, the fruitful five-year project, “Ancient East Asia and Students Abroad,” is a good example. The project, chosen as one of the Open Research Center programs, was subsidized by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology since 2007 to facilitate wide-ranging research on ancient East Asia from the multiple perspectives of archaeology, Japanese, Chinese and other Asian histories.

4) Students have access to historical sources housed in the university library: for example, the Bernstein Collection is the world’s second largest collection relevant to the French Revolution, and there are other collections concerning the Spanish Civil War, Nazism, and African American history. With the Bernstein Collection in particular, post-doctoral and graduate students work in collaboration with faculty members.

5) We promote diversity among students. We participate in a credit transfer system with nine other graduate schools in Tokyo: Aoyama Gakuin, Chuo, Sophia, Meiji, Rikkyo, Kokugakuin, Kokushikan, Komazawa, and Tokai Universities. Accordingly we encourage our students to attend classes outside our campus, and we welcome students from other universities. Our programs are also open to those who wish to continue his/her advanced studies after many years of absence as well as those from abroad. Finally and importantly, our academic association, the Senshu University Historical Society, holds annual and special meetings to enhance not only intellectual interaction but also friendship among its members, who are faculty members, graduate and undergraduate students, and alumni.

Policy with Regard to Conferment of Degrees

Master's Program

The Master’s Program confers Master’s (History) degrees upon those students who satisfy the following prerequisites.
  1. Earn the number of credits required by the Graduate School of Letters
  2. Possess broad and world-leading knowledge through the study of past histories of Japan and regions around the world, and be able to set research topics based on critical considerations of existing research results. Moreover, in interpreting such topics, the student should have the capacity to conduct research that can create a new image of history, amassing historic materials and taking a critical view of historical sources. It should be possible to judge that the student has the ability to announce the collective research results as a thesis.

Doctoral Program

The Doctoral Program confers a Ph.D. (History) degree upon those students who satisfy the following prerequisites.
  1. Earn the number of credits required by the Graduate School of Letters
  2. Conduct exceptional and unparalleled research in the student’s field of specialization, as well as meeting the above conditions for the conferment of a master’s degree.

Policy with Regard to Curriculum Development and Implementation

Master's Program

With lectures and exercises relating to various fields in the discipline of history, this major supports the preferences for research and learning held by students who are considering various career paths, including that of researcher or highly qualified professional. Together with gaining an even deeper knowledge of this field of specialization, students are recommended to extensively study different fields that transcend region and era.

Doctoral Program

The Doctoral Program provides lectures and exercises that have a high degree of specialization with regard to the various fields of history. As with the Master’s Program, together with gaining an even deeper knowledge of this field of specialization, students are recommended to study a wide range of different fields, going beyond region and era.

Admission policy

Master’s Program

The Major in History (Master’s Program) offered by the Graduate School of Humanities aims to nurture researchers and educators who have attained highly specialized knowledge in a specific field of historical research, and are capable of comprehensively and critically understand history from a broad perspective beyond the specialized field. Hence, we are looking for potential students who fulfill the following requirements.
Qualification and skill requirements for enrollment in the Major in History (Master’s Program) offered by the Graduate School of Humanities
(1)Individuals with the capability to gather historical documents and information, and accurately understand the contents
(2)Individuals with the desire to understand matters through a broad awareness of the problems present in human activities and society
(3)Individuals who wish to systematically understand various phenomena with a logical insight

Doctoral Program

The Major in History (Doctoral Program) offered by the Graduate School of Humanities aims to nurture researchers and educators who have attained highly specialized knowledge in the demonstration and theory of historical research, and are capable of comprehensively and critically understand history from a broad perspective, thinking beyond specialized fields. Hence, we are looking for potential students who fulfill the following requirements.
Qualification and skill requirements for enrollment in the Major in History (Doctoral Program) offered by the Graduate School of Humanities
(1)Individuals with the ability to accurately interpret historical events by gathering historical documents and information, and accurately understanding the contents
(2)Individuals with the desire to understand the history of mankind through a broad awareness of the problems present in human activities and society
(3)Individuals who wish to systematically understand various societies with logical insight  

Major in Geography

A specialization leading to the master’s program in geography was added in 1992 to the curriculum of the Graduate School of the Humanities. This step was followed in 1994 by the addition of a doctoral program in geography. At present, the teaching staff consists of 9 regular full-time members. In terms of the size of teaching staff, this means our School joins the ranks of Japan’s leading graduate schools that offer master’s and doctoral courses in geography. In terms of subjects taught, the master’s program offers courses divided along two main fields: human geography and physical geography.

As class subjects for the Master’s Program, classes on human geography such as historical geography, social geography, rural geography, urban geography and classes on physical geography such as global environment, regional environment, and classes on geographical information, as well location theory of economic activities and regional resource study, etc., based on dynamic regional geography are combined in balance.

As for the Doctoral Program, while studying the above basic subjects in more depth, there will be individual research guidance centered on the students’ doctoral theses. Up to now, 3 students have been granted a doctoral degree in geography.

After completion, there is an overall good chance for students to get employment at national and public universities, national research institutes, corporations that are engaged in specialized research and as teachers at junior and senior high schools.

Further, students will be able to obtain certification as Professional GIS Specialists accredited by the Association of Japanese Geographers. We are also very proactive about enrolling adult students.

Since 2001, this major has had credit transfer arrangements with five graduate schools in Tokyo (Hosei, Meiji, Komazawa, Kokushikan, and Nihon) in order to promote broader exchanges with researchers and students in a range of fields..

Policy with Regard to Conferment of Degrees

Master's Program

The Master’s Program confers Master’s (Geography) degrees upon those students who satisfy the following prerequisites.
  1. Earn the number of credits required by the Graduate School of Letters
  2. Acquire specialized skills for field work and spatial analysis, and conduct empirical research on issues associated with regions and the environment. In addition, submit a master’s thesis on the results of such research and pass a final examination.

Doctoral Program

The Doctoral Program confers a Ph.D. (Geography) degree upon those students who satisfy the following prerequisites.
  1. Earn the number of credits required by the Graduate School of Letters
  2. Conduct advanced, specialized and creative research in the field of geography. Also submit a doctoral dissertation on the results of such research and pass a final examination.

Policy with Regard to Curriculum Development and Implementation

Master's Program

The geography major establishes, in a standardized manner, courses that cover each field of human geography, natural geography and topography, as well as courses associated with research methodology, primarily field work and spatial analysis, and others. This major entrenches an academic framework suitable to fostering the human talent, as specialists in geography, who are able to contribute solutions to today’s issues. The major will also enable students to acquire accreditation as a Regional Researcher and as an Expert GIS Scientis t, certifications provided by the Association of Japanese Geographers .

Doctoral Program

The major in geography is designed to offer advanced academic lectures and exercises, including enabling students to produce cutting-edge research results in the discipline of geography by nurturing the capacity of students working on doctoral dissertations to produce creative research.

Admission policy

Master’s Program

The Major in Geography (Master’s Program) offered by the Graduate School of Humanities aims to nurture multi-talented individuals who possess knowledge of highly specialized skills, such as field work, GIS and remote sensing technologies, and are able to proceed with empirical research. Hence, we are looking for potential students who fulfill the following requirements.
Qualification and skill requirements for enrollment in the Major in Geography (Master’s Program) offered by the Graduate School of Humanities
(1)Individuals with a broad interest in geography, as well as regional and environmental issues
(2)Individuals who desire to acquire specialized knowledge and skills necessary to learn geography
(3)Individuals who wish to conduct empirical research on regional and environmental issues
We are looking for talented individuals who understand the points stated above and are willing to study and conduct research in an earnest manner. We accept not only those with a background in geography, but also those who aim to be researchers, highly specialized professionals and educators of geography.

Doctoral Program

The Major in Geography (Doctoral Program) offered by the Graduate School of Humanities aims to nurture multi-talented individuals who possess knowledge of highly specialized skills, such as field work, GIS and remote sensing technologies, and are able to proceed with empirical and creative research. Hence, we are looking for potential students who fulfill the following requirements.
Qualification and skill requirements for enrollment in the Major in Geography (Doctoral Program) offered by the Graduate School of Humanities
(1)Individuals with a broad interest in geography, as well as regional and environmental issues
(2)Individuals who desire to acquire highly specialized knowledge and skills in the field of geography
(3)Individuals who wish to conduct empirical and creative research on regional and environmental issues
We are looking for talented individuals who understand the points stated above and are willing to study and conduct research in an earnest manner. We accept those who aim to be researchers, highly specialized professionals and educators of geography.

Major in Sociology

Our sociology program is aimed at training students to gain profound sociological expertise and preparing them for careers in a variety of fields that include academic institutions as well as business and public services.

(1) The Sociology Program offers both the M.A. and the Ph.D.
(2) A wide variety of courses is offered that explores current issues. Course subjects include, but are not limited to, globalization, work and occupation, social implications of information and communication technologies, and social welfare. A full list of courses is available in Brochure[30]. 15 faculty members and guest lecturers provide comprehensive and systematic training that equips students with rigorous analytical skills.
(3) The Sociology Program puts emphasis on the pursuit of empirical knowledge based on theoretical foundations.
(4) The Sociology Program is accredited by The Japan Association of Social Research to grant a certificate of Certified Social Resercher.
(5) The Sociology Program is a member of a graduate school consortium consisting of 23 universities, which allows M.A. students to attend classes at all participating institutions and earn credit at their home institution.
(6) The Ph. D. program has awarded 6 doctorates. Some of our doctoral students have accepted positions in national and private universities, with others finding work in business, education, and public services.

Policy with Regard to Conferment of Degrees

Master's Program

The Master’s Program confers Master’s (Sociology) degrees upon those students who satisfy the following prerequisites.
  1. Earn the number of credits required by the Graduate School of Letters
  2. Possessing a global perspective, be capable of making observations with regard to the structure of modern society in a comprehensive and systematic manner.
  3. Comprehensively grasp theory and validation in each field of specialization, and be capable of utilizing these in research and specialized occupational life.

Doctoral Program

The Doctoral Program confers a Ph.D. (Sociology) degree upon those students who satisfy the following prerequisites.
  1. Earn the number of credits required by the Graduate School of Letters
  2. Possess an enhanced level of understanding of theory and validation in each field of specialization, and be capable of applying this in original research.
  3. Be recognized for new academic insights, and be able to submit a doctoral dissertation that contains research results that contribute to advances in the field of sociology.

Policy with Regard to Curriculum Development and Implementation

Master's Program
  1. To comprehensively and systematically elaborate on the framework of modern society, with a global perspective, the Master’s Program covers a wide range of specialized fields in its lectures and exercises. The cornerstone for these is an emphasis on theory and validation, with thorough and in-depth investigations of subjects and issues that are practical and realistic.
  2. Graduate students are assigned not just one academic supervisor; the Master’s Program has adopted a framework of group guidance whereby a number of counselors from the various fields within sociology provide guidance.
  3. The program consists of practical social research training so that students can thoroughly attain a greater level of research and analytical skills, as well as to earn recognition as an Advanced Social Researcher , a certification provided by the Japanese Association of Social Research.
  4. A credit transfer system has been put in place whereby students can acquire knowledge in fields of specialization, not available in the university’s curriculum, from the sociology programs of 22 other universities’ graduate schools in the Tokyo Metropolitan area.

Doctoral Program
  1. High-level lectures and exercises are offered with an emphasis on theory and validation-oriented content so that students can attain advanced expertise in each area of specialization.
  2. Graduate students are offered guidance by a number of academic counselors, as the Master’s Program has adopted a framework of group guidance provided by counselors in various fields within sociology.

Admission policy

Master’s Program

The Major in Sociology (Master’s Program) offered by the Graduate School of Humanities aims to not only to nurture researchers and educators who possess highly specialized knowledge, but also to groom talented individuals who are able to make broad contributions to society by making use of that knowledge. Hence, we are looking for potential students who fulfill the following requirements.
Qualification and skill requirements for enrollment in the Major in Sociology (Master’s Program) offered by the Graduate School of Humanities
(1)Individuals with a flexible mentality, and the attitude to learn from society
(2)Individuals with the desire to conduct surveys and research in order to acquire new knowledge in various fields of sociology
(3)Individuals who are aware of their own problems, and who aim to expand their research theoretically and empirically.

Doctoral Program

The Major in Sociology (Doctoral Program) offered by the Graduate School of Humanities aims to not only to nurture researchers and educators who possess advanced specialized knowledge in a specific field of sociology, but also to groom talented individuals who are able to make broad contributions to society by making use of that knowledge. Hence,we are looking for potential students who fulfill the following requirements.
Qualification and skill requirements for enrollment in the Major in Sociology (Doctoral Program) offered by the Graduate School of Humanities
(1)Individuals with a flexible mentality and the attitude to learn from society
(2)Individuals with the desire to conduct surveys and research in order to acquire new knowledge in a specific field of sociology
(3)Individuals who wish to conduct research to study their own specialized field thoroughly by making use of their foreign literature comprehension skills and social survey techniques

Major in Psychology

The goals of the major in Psychology, since its inception in 1992, have always been two-fold. First, in this major we strive to prepare students in the master's and doctoral programs for careers in high-level research at universities and other educational institutions. Second, the aim of the major is to ready students who have completed master's degree work and are aiming to obtain qualifications in the clinical psychology area by supplying them with a thorough understanding of the core principles and know-how necessary for a career in the field. To achieve these goals, we bring to bear all our resources yearly to insure top-flight instructors in each area of study, as well as the development of a challenging curriculum. Not stopping there, we also do our best to create an overall environment in which graduate work in the exciting field of psychology can take place.

Currently, this major is divided into four areas: experimental, social, developmental, and clinical psychology. Each of these four areas is staffed by instructors who are not only specialists in their respective fields, but have the necessary experience and skills to provide high-quality instruction suited to our students' individual interests and needs.

Since the School's establishment, students in this major have always had access to the latest technology in its laboratories across the experimental, social and developmental psychology areas. In fact, as other universities struggled to catch up with the information revolution, Senshu was already far ahead of the curve in the development of its university-wide computer network. As a result, we have made use of the Internet resources and have been introducing the newest technology of information processing into education. Also, to deepen with real-world experience the skills of our students interested in clinical psychology, since 2009 we have the new Psychological Counseling Center, which is provided with completely new facilities such as well-equipped playrooms, activity observation rooms and group interview rooms. With such a comprehensive clinical program, it is no wonder that since 1997, the School has been recognized as a Level One Designated School by Japanese Certification Board for Clinical Psychologists under the graduate school designation system.

Upon completion of the School's programs, a large portion of our graduates go on to do more specialized postgraduate research and teaching in their respective fields, and the number that have gone on to receive certification as clinical psychologists and are now in practice across the country exceeds 100.

Policy with Regard to Conferment of Degrees

Master's Program

The Master’s Program confers Master’s (Psychology) degrees upon those students who satisfy the following prerequisites.
  1. Earn the number of credits required by the Graduate School of Letters
  2. Produce and submit a master’s thesis based on the acquisition of highly specialized and broad academic learning of psychology. In addition, pass a review and a test with regard to that master’s thesis.

Doctoral Program

The Doctoral Program confers Ph.D. (Psychology) degrees in accordance with its policy for conferring psychology major degrees.
  1. Earn the number of credits required by the Graduate School of Letters
  2. Produce and submit a doctoral dissertation that demonstrates the acquisition of highly specialized and broad academic learning in the field of psychology, possesses academic creativity and originality, and includes sophisticated research results that contribute to a better understanding of psychology. In addition, the student must pass a review of their doctoral dissertation and an examination.

Policy with Regard to Curriculum Development and Implementation

Master's Program
  1. This Master’s Program provides students with problem solving skills based on methodologies used in psychology research and solution development, and facilitates development of advanced intellect so that they can apply such skills in various fields after the program.
  2. Students who aim to acquire certifications in the field of clinical psychology following the Master’s Program cultivate the fundamental, in-depth knowledge that can withstand the test of practical applications.
  3. Experts are assigned, in a standardized manner, to cover each of the fields within psychology, namely, experimental, social, developmental and clinical, for exceptionally tailor-made guidance that fits with the various aspirations of graduate students.
  4. Guidance and instruction with a high degree of granularity is achieved by thoroughly maintaining small class sizes and interactive education.

Doctoral Program
  1. The Doctoral Program nurtures students who will after graduation become specialized researchers at universities and other advanced educational institutions.
  2. Human talent is fostered to perform a post-program role of offering guidance for realistic applications in clinical psychology.
  3. Experts are involved, in a standardized manner, to cover the range of fields within psychology, specifically, experimental, social, developmental and clinical, for pin-point guidance that fits with the varied aspirations of graduate students.
  4. Guidance and instruction with a high degree of detail is achieved by keeping class sizes small and through two-way education.

Admission policy

Master’s Program

The Major in Psychology (Master’s Program) offered by the Graduate School of Humanities nurtures researchers who possess specialized knowledge, and at the same time, grooms specialized professionals who can make use of their knowledge in psychology. In particular, we provide support to students in acquiring the Clinical Psychologist certification, which is necessary to complete the Master’s Program. Our aim is to send into society specialized researchers, or specialists in the clinical field who have deepened fundamental knowledge and skills suitable for practice and application. Hence, we are looking for potential students who fulfill the following requirements.
Qualification and skill requirements for enrollment in the Major in Psychology (Master’s Program) offered by the Graduate School of Humanities
(1)Individuals with basic knowledge of psychology and linguistic ability, which form the basis of specialized learning
(2)Individuals who are capable of gathering and processing the information necessary to solve problems, examine the information logically and flexibly, and present the results in an appropriate manner
(3)Individuals who can handle the learning, research and implementation aspects of the study of psychology, both independently and in cooperation with others.
In addition, we are looking for talented individuals with a wide range of potential, including members of society.

Doctoral Program

The Major in Psychology (Doctoral Program) offered by the Graduate School of Humanities nurtures researchers who possess specialized knowledge, and at the same time, grooms specialized professionals who can make use of their knowledge in psychology. Our aim is to send specialists into society who have deepened fundamental knowledge and skills suitable for highly specialized practice and application. Hence, we are looking for potential students who fulfill the following requirements.
Qualification and skill requirements for enrollment in the Major in Psychology (Doctoral Program) offered by the Graduate School of Humanities
(1)Individuals with knowledge of psychology and linguistic ability, which form the basis of specialized learning
(2)Individuals who are capable of gathering and processing information necessary to solve problems, examine the information logically and flexibly, and present the results in an appropriate manner
(3)Individuals who can handle specialized research and implementation aspects of the study of psychology, both independently and in cooperation with others.
In addition, we are looking for talented individuals with a wide range of potential, including members of society.

Graduate Schools