The University of Tokyo's School of Science conducts research and education across various scientific fields in order to understand the mechanisms of nature and uncover the immutable laws that govern them. In most cases, scientific research is motivated and advanced by the intellectual interests of researchers and not by the desire to seek the immediate application of findings. The profound understanding of nature that we have gained as a result has formed many conveniences of modern civilization, while also enriching our view of nature and the universe. Science has formed the deepest foundation of civilization and is a driving force for creating the future. With this in mind, the Charter of the School of Science has set the "creation and handing down of knowledge" as the School's main mission.
The School of Science consists of the Graduate School of Science (GSS) and the Faculty of Science. The GSS is comprised of five departments and twelve affiliated centers and research institutions. Courses in the GSS cover a wide range of specialized fields in science and are taught by departmental faculty members as well as by faculty from other departments and research institutes of the University of Tokyo or other institutions. Illustrating the breadth of world-class research and superb graduate education being conducted in each department, GSS faculty and graduates have received numerous international prizes and awards, including Nobel Prizes and a Fields Medal, the most prestigious award in mathematics.
The Faculty of Science has ten departments and is the only undergraduate faculty at the University of Tokyo that covers nearly all of the fields of basic science. As part of its efforts to develop people who will play leading roles in the international community, the Faculty of Science provides various programs for students to study abroad, and offers a special summer school program (UTRIP) that selects keenly motivated undergraduate students from universities overseas to experience conducting research at GSS laboratories. Furthermore, the Faculty accepts undergraduate transfer students from abroad into the third year under an all-English undergraduate transfer program called Global Science Course (GSC), which is the first program of its kind at the University of Tokyo.
In these ways, the Faculty of Science and the Graduate School of Science pursue cutting-edge research in the most advanced fields while fostering students who will lead the next generation of scientists. Through their instruction in the concepts and methodologies of science, students are equipped with the knowledge and means to solve future problems as well as the ability to identify and address new problems. Having developed into deeply creative and internationally-minded scientists, many GSS graduates are currently active at the frontlines of research as postdoctoral fellows at universities, research institutes, and enterprises worldwide.
Recognizing the importance of international academic exchange, the School of Science is pleased to offer various research and educational programs that allow students and researchers from around the world to enjoy life in Japan while carrying out their studies and research. We invite you to explore our programs and join us in playing an active part in the international world of science.