Now, go to graduate school to shape your way of life!
During your four years in the Faculty of Engineering, have you ever stopped to consider what “engineering” truly means? You may have been so fully occupied with acquiring knowledge in mathematics, physics, and specialized subjects that you haven’t had the chance to ponder this question. The laws of mathematics and physics are undeniable “truths” beyond human intervention (albeit with the caveat of “as far as humanity currently understands”). Engineering, on the other hand, is the academic discipline of utilizing scientific knowledge and laws to design, develop, and apply technologies that solve real-world problems for the well-being and happiness of all living things.
Due to time constraints, fourth-year graduation research often concludes with students merely learning how to use the “tools” of engineering research. In contrast, graduate school aims to cultivate independent researchers capable of solving complex engineering problems and developing new technologies. Here, you can dedicate ample time and deep concentration to these pursuits. Naturally, this also involves acquiring a broad spectrum of knowledge related to your specific research theme.
Graduate school is an environment dedicated to nurturing such talent, where presenting at external academic conferences and research symposia is a fundamental requirement. Many of our graduate students are given the opportunity to present in English at international conferences, expanding their professional networks through technical exchanges with numerous researchers, and earning prestigious research and presentation awards. Participating in these external presentations allows you to attend sessions by researchers from other universities and industries, keeping you abreast of the latest research trends while honing your own presentation skills. The fact that most professionals involved in research and development hold graduate degrees is because technology-driven companies inherently recognize that “true R&D capability belongs to those who have completed graduate studies.”
Our university offers a Teaching Assistant (TA) program designed for both educator training and financial support, as well as an early graduation program that allows students to complete both their undergraduate and graduate degrees in just five years. These systems make it possible to complete your graduate education while minimizing tuition costs. We strongly encourage you to advance to graduate school, engage systematically in advanced education, and elevate your research. By mastering the complete research process, you will graduate as a highly capable engineer ready to contribute to strengthening global competitiveness and advancing the future of society. To forge your own path in life and expand both your knowledge and your potential, advancing to graduate school is an indispensable step.
the Dean of Engineering, Shinobu Ishigami