The University of Tokyo is set to introduce a novel five-year integrated Bachelor's and Master's degree program starting in the fall of 2027. The program, housed in the interdisciplinary college of design, will accommodate around 100 students, with half of the slots reserved for international students. Designed to address global challenges like climate change, the program combines a four-year Bachelor's degree with a one-year Master's degree.
During their enrollment, students in this program will have the flexibility to choose courses from various fields such as literature and medicine, offered at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Additionally, classes within the program will be accessible to students from other faculties within the university.
As part of the curriculum, students will be required to gain real-world experience for one year through external programs, including company internships or studying abroad. The application process for the program, beginning in the fall, will differ from the traditional examination format to encourage a diverse range of applicants. Classes will be conducted in English.
This initiative aligns with the university's goal to increase the proportion of international students to 30 percent or more at the undergraduate level and 40 percent or more at the graduate level by 2049, compared to the 4.6 percent and 33 percent figures at the end of 2023. The university plans to attract instructors from foreign universities and private companies, funding the program through profits generated from investments by the university's own fund.
The official announcement of the program's launch is expected by March 2025, with details regarding entrance examinations and graduation requirements to be finalized and approved.
