Historical Legacy and Academic Excellence
With over 380 years of academic tradition, Ryukoku University stands as Japan’s oldest Buddhist university and the third oldest university overall. The institution transitioned to its modern university structure in 1922, establishing itself as a center for both Buddhist scholarship and contemporary academic disciplines. Today, it operates three campuses across Kyoto (Fukakusa, Seta, and Omiya) serving over 20,000 students.
The university’s unique blend of traditional Buddhist values and modern academic rigor creates an exceptional learning environment. Ryukoku consistently ranks among Japan’s top private universities, particularly for its humanities programs and international student support services.
Academic Programs and Research Centers
Ryukoku University offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs through its nine faculties and ten graduate schools:
Undergraduate Faculties
- Faculty of Letters (Buddhist Studies, Japanese Literature, History, etc.)
- Faculty of Economics (Economic Policy, Business Administration)
- Faculty of Business Administration
- Faculty of Law (Law, Political Science)
- Faculty of Sociology (Social Welfare, Community Development)
- Faculty of Science and Technology (Applied Mathematics, Electrical Engineering)
- Faculty of Agriculture (Food Science, Environmental Science)
- Faculty of International Studies (Global English, Asian Studies)
- Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology (Robotics, Data Science)
Notable Graduate Schools
- Graduate School of Buddhist Studies (world-renowned program)
- Graduate School of International Studies
- Graduate School of Science and Technology
- Graduate School of Social Service Studies
The university houses several prestigious research institutes including the Research Center for Buddhist Cultures in Asia and the Center for Southeast Asian Studies, attracting scholars worldwide.
International Student Programs and Support
Ryukoku University maintains strong global connections with over 100 partner institutions worldwide. The university offers exceptional support for international students through:
English-Taught Degree Programs
- Bachelor of Arts in International Studies (Faculty of International Studies)
- Master’s programs in Buddhist Studies (English track available)
- Various short-term exchange programs in English
Japanese Language Education
The Japanese Language Program for Foreign Students (JLP) provides intensive language training across six proficiency levels, with dedicated courses for academic Japanese preparation.
Global Dormitory
Ryukoku’s International House offers affordable accommodation with Japanese roommate programs to facilitate cultural exchange and language practice.
Tuition Fees and Scholarship Opportunities
As a private institution, Ryukoku University’s tuition fees are higher than Japanese national universities but remain competitive among private institutions:
Undergraduate Tuition (Annual)
- Admission fee: ¥200,000 (one-time)
- Tuition: ¥780,000 – ¥1,200,000 depending on faculty
- Facility fees: ¥150,000 – ¥300,000
Generous Scholarship Programs
- Ryukoku University International Scholarship (30-100% tuition reduction)
- JASSO Scholarship for international students
- Honors Scholarship for Privately Financed International Students
- Special scholarships for Buddhist studies students
The university’s financial aid office provides personalized support for scholarship applications and part-time work permits (up to 28 hours/week for international students).
Campus Life and Kyoto Location
Ryukoku’s three campuses offer distinct environments while maintaining the university’s characteristic blend of tradition and modernity:
Fukakusa Campus
The main campus housing humanities and social science faculties, featuring the magnificent Shoseikan building – a registered tangible cultural property.
Seta Campus
Modern science and technology hub with advanced laboratories and research facilities located in a scenic area of Kyoto.
Omiya Campus
Historic downtown campus specializing in law and business programs, offering easy access to Kyoto’s cultural landmarks.
All campuses provide excellent student amenities including libraries with rare Buddhist texts, meditation rooms, sports facilities, and various student clubs ranging from traditional tea ceremony to cutting-edge robotics.
Admission Requirements and Application Process
Ryukoku University maintains selective admission standards with different requirements for domestic and international applicants:
Undergraduate Admissions
- Completed 12 years of schooling or equivalent
- Japanese proficiency (N2 or higher for Japanese-taught programs)
- TOEFL 70+/IELTS 5.5+ for English-track programs
- Entrance examination (varies by faculty)
- Personal statement and letters of recommendation
Graduate Admissions
- Relevant bachelor’s degree (minimum 3.0 GPA recommended)
- Research proposal (for research-based programs)
- Interview (often conducted online for international applicants)
The university offers two annual admission periods (April and September intake) with application deadlines typically 6-8 months in advance.
Career Support and Alumni Network
Ryukoku’s Career Center provides comprehensive support including:
- Industry-specific career seminars
- One-on-one counseling (available in English)
- Internship placement with Kyoto-based companies
- Annual career fairs with 300+ participating companies
The university boasts an impressive employment rate of 97.5% (2022 data) with graduates finding positions in:
- Major Japanese corporations (Toyota, Panasonic, etc.)
- International organizations
- Buddhist institutions worldwide
- Government and public service
- Academic and research positions
Why Choose Ryukoku University?
Ryukoku University offers unique advantages for both domestic and international students:
- Unparalleled expertise in Buddhist studies combined with strong modern disciplines
- Prime location in Kyoto – Japan’s cultural capital with 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- Personalized education with a student-faculty ratio of 18:1
- Extensive international network and study abroad opportunities
- Vibrant campus life with over 200 student clubs and organizations
- Strong ethical foundation based on Buddhist principles
Conclusion
Ryukoku University represents a unique fusion of ancient wisdom and modern scholarship, offering students from all backgrounds an exceptional educational experience in one of Japan’s most historic cities. Whether pursuing specialized Buddhist studies or contemporary academic disciplines, students benefit from small class sizes, world-class faculty, and a supportive international community. With its generous scholarship programs, strong career support, and ideal Kyoto location, Ryukoku continues to attract top students from Japan and around the world.
Prospective students are encouraged to attend the university’s virtual open campus events or schedule a consultation with the international admissions office to learn more about application procedures and scholarship opportunities.