Faculty Features
By studying statistical analysis, students will hone their data analysis skills and aim to become talent that can create new value for society in the fields of international business and finance.
[Learning Keywords]
Finance, Data Science, Securities Investment
[Future Path]
Securities analysts at domestic and overseas financial institutions, IT consultants, data analysts at IT companies, and entrepreneurs of new businesses
Our goal is to produce talented people who can find clues to solving problems while learning about the history and customs of each country, with a view to promoting the sustainable development of developing economies in Africa and Asia and building a global international cooperation system.
【keyword】
International cooperation, poverty reduction, economic development, regional economy
[Future Path]
Analysts and local expatriates at international organizations, marketing staff at consumer goods manufacturers, purchasing and procurement departments at general trading companies, and management staff at NPOs and NGOs.
We aim to train students to become professionals who can design effective economic policies and corporate strategies to resolve the various issues facing the Japanese and global economies (regional revitalization, AI and employment, stable food supplies, declining birthrates and aging populations, etc.) and to build a circular economy.
[Learning Keywords]
Regional revitalization, declining labor force, and circular economy
[Future Path]
Local and national government officials, analysts and local expatriates from international organizations, business consultants, new product and service planners and developers
International Programs
Aimed at preparing economics professionals with an international perspective, this programme equips students with the knowledge and skills to respond to global economic challenges.
About IP
About IP
Opening of IP
The International Program (IP), which the Faculty of Faculty of Economics launched in 2001, is a four-year undergraduate program aimed at cultivating human resources with economics knowledge and international communication skills. In addition to specialized economics classes, the program also emphasizes English language education, and students can make proper preparations for undergraduate and graduate study abroad.
In recent years, we often hear from current students and high school students that they want to study English, but many of them are also eager to learn not just English, but also specialized subjects using English as a medium. In addition, when undergraduate students study abroad using Soka University's exchange program, there are often cases where students are unable to keep up with specialized subject classes at their study abroad destinations, even if they have language skills, because they were not accustomed to specialized subject classes in English before studying abroad. Since there are differences in the higher education systems of each country, there are also differences in the style and pace of classes. Therefore, by getting used to lectures in English in advance, it will be possible to achieve greater results at the study abroad destination. In addition, there are many students who are not planning to study abroad but are studying economics while aiming for the highest level of language proficiency, and for these students, a program has become necessary in which they can actually use English in classes, improve their English skills, and deepen their specialized knowledge.
Benefits of learning at IP
This learning method that integrates the study of a specialized field and the study of language skills is called "content-based language learning". Its definition is "improving language skills while studying a specialized field in a foreign language". In this case, the study materials for the specialized field are the main focus, and the language materials and class content are advanced according to the study of the field. In language classes that support specialized study, students develop the language skills necessary to proceed with the study of the specialized field. In the process of acquiring a specialized field, students input information on the specialized field in English (reading materials and listening to lectures), think about it, and then output it in the form of speaking and writing. However, in order to proceed with this process effectively, it is necessary to be able to understand 70-80% of the input. This requires language ability and knowledge of the specialized field in Japanese. That is why IP students are required to start with intermediate English proficiency and a high GPA in other majors. There are three advantages to studying this way: (1) the content is in a field that interests students, so they have an incentive to understand it, (2) this type of language class teaches all the aspects necessary to understand the content at the moment, so students learn with a keen sense of practicality, and (3) students learn English phrases and vocabulary that are relevant and have deeper meanings, rather than just memorizing them without any connection.
IP Curriculum
Next, let me explain the overall curriculum of IP. This program has two educational goals. Students can complete both stages in one to two years. The goal of the first stage is to improve basic English skills to understand economics classes in English and acquire the academic skills required for classes. In this case, the target is TOEFL (iBT) 54+, TOEFL-ITP 480+. In the second stage, students will take microeconomics and macroeconomics classes in English for about six months to one year. The target English score is TOEFL (iBT) 71+, TOEFL-ITP 530+. Students who have completed IP can take SUCCEED courses, where they study specialized subjects in English with international students. These classes are taught entirely in English by visiting professors from abroad and faculty members of the Faculty of Faculty of Economics. Students will understand these classes, actively participate in classes, and submit all of their assignments in English.
IP Goals
IP's main goal is for students to acquire the language proficiency and communication skills necessary to be immediately productive after graduation.
Even when it comes to improving language skills, it is necessary to clarify each individual's goals and create a study plan that corresponds to them. Examples of language achievement goals include "I want to be able to have daily conversations," "I want to be able to read English literature," "I want to be able to work without problems in specialized fields," "I want to be able to talk about any topic with native speakers without difficulty," "I want to study abroad in the future, so I want to be able to understand university classes," and so on. Just as there are various needs, the content, teaching methods, and assignments of language classes vary depending on the purpose, so students are required to choose classes that meet their needs. The students targeted by the IP in the Faculty of Faculty of Economics are students who studied abroad during their undergraduate years and want to improve both their language skills and their knowledge of economics, students who have studied languages since high school because they like them, students who aim to work internationally in the future, and students who do not plan to study abroad but want to acquire the highest level of language skills.
SUCCEED is a program that allows students to earn enough credits to graduate by taking classes in English alone. If the requirements are met, Japanese students can study economics in English with international students from around the world. It is also possible to combine classes in Japanese to study bilingually.
SUCCEED (Soka University Courses for Comprehensive Economics Education)
Concept of SUCCEED Program
SUCCEED is a program for international students in which they can earn a bachelor's degree in Economics from Soka University with all coursework conducted in English. Courses in Economics, Japanese Economy and general education are offered in English. Those students who achieve the required Japanese language proficiency will be have the option of taking Japanese-medium courses. By enrolling in this program, students will be able to gain the knowledge of Japanese economy, business, and society; Asian economy; and Japanese language skills.
Sample Courses Schedule for International Students in SUCCEED Program
| emester 1 | credits | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Required | ECON101 | Freshman Seminar | 2 |
| ECON113 | Principles of Microeconomics | 4 | |
| ECON223 | Introductory Mathematics for Economics I | 2 | |
| English | ECON183 | Academic Foundations for Economic Majors I* | 2 |
| General Education | GUNI111 | Humanistic Education I | 2 |
| English | GJLC | Courses in Japanese | 6 |
| emester 2 | credits | ||
| Required | ECON114 | Principles of Macroeconomics | 4 |
| ECON152 | Introduction to Japanese Economic History | 4 | |
| ECON224 | Introductory Mathematics for Economics II | 2 | |
| General Education | GUNI122 | Soka Education | 2 |
| English | GJLC | Courses in Japanese | 6 |
| emester 3 | credits | ||
| Required | ECON225-6 | Statistics for Economics and Business I & II | 4 |
| ECON132 | Introduction to Financial Accounting | 2 | |
| Optional | ECON313 | Intermediate Microeconomics | 4 |
| English | ECON381 | Economics Laboratory I | 1 |
| General Education | GNAT | an introductory course on natural science | 2 |
| English | GJLC | Courses in Japanese | 5 |
| emester 4 | credits | ||
| Required | ECON201 | Advanced Seminar I | 2 |
| Optional | ECON314 | Intermediate Macroeconomics | 4 |
| ECON334 | Principles of Finance | 4 | |
| English | ECON382 | Economics Laboratory II | 1 |
| General Education | GNAT | an introductory course on natural science | 2 |
| GHUMI171 | Japanese Composition I | 2 | |
| English | GJLC | Courses in Japanese | 1 |
| GJLC118 | Japanese Traditional Culture | 2 | |
| emester 5 | credits | ||
| Required | ECON301 | Advanced Seminar II | 2 |
| Optional | ECON336 | International Finance | 2 |
| ECON355 | Economic Development of Japan I | 2 | |
| ECON357 | Political Economy of Japan and Asia | 2 | |
| ECON397 | International Business | 4 | |
| ECON399 | Socio-economic Development of India | 2 | |
| Other Department | INTA360 | Modern World History | 4 |
| emester 6 | credits | ||
| Required | ECON302 | Advanced Seminar III | 2 |
| Optional | ECON347 | Economic Issues of Contemporary Japan | 2 |
| ECON356 | Economic Development of Japan II | 2 | |
| ECON396 | Business and Japanese People | 2 | |
| ECON398 | Human Resources Management in Japan and Asia | 2 | |
| Othe Dep | INTA381 | Poverty and Development | 4 |
| INTA382 | Management Science | 4 | |
| emester 7 | credits | ||
| Optional | ECON481 | World Economy V | 2 |
| ECON483 | World Economy F | 4 | |
| Othe Dep | INTA482 | Operation Management | 4 |
| emester 8 | credits | ||
| Optional | ECON401 | Advanced Seminar IV | 2 |
| ECON402 | Graduation Thesis | 4 |
Program Features
Thorough English education
Our international programs will help you develop practical English communication skills in order to prepare you for graduate schools abroad or international organizations.
Learn economics at the highest level
In order to enable students to learn the highest level of economics according to global standards while still an undergraduate, students will take intermediate-level economics courses early on, along with supporting small-group seminars.
Small-group seminars linked to classes
In small-group seminars taught by faculty, students will develop comprehensive thinking skills, problem-finding and problem-solving abilities, and leadership skills through discussions based on economic theory and data.
Scholarships to support studying abroad
To support study abroad, the Mariko J. Honma Foundation offers scholarships (which do not need to be repaid) to students studying abroad through university exchange programs.
Message from the instructor
We are currently facing many challenges, such as the economic downturn caused by COVID-19, poverty, and the climate crisis, and HOPE is looking for talented people who will boldly take on these challenges and contribute to solving them. We hope that at HOPE, students will acquire not only specialized knowledge, but also leadership, communication skills, execution skills that can produce results, and collaboration skills, and that they will grow into talented people who can play an active role not only in Japan but also on the global stage. All of our faculty members will do their utmost to help you.
[Career] Graduated from Soka University and completed doctoral studies at the University of California, Santa Cruz. Ph.D. (Environmental Studies). After working as an environmental policy advisor for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Japanese Embassy in Laos in Japan, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the JICA Vietnam Office, and the Ministry of the Environment, he has been teaching at the Faculty of Economics at Soka University since autumn 2017.
Professor Michiyo Kakegawa
Drawing on my previous work experience at the World Bank, I am researching environmental issues such as climate change in developing and developed countries from an economic approach. With the guideline "For what purpose should one cultivate wisdom? May you always ask yourself this question!" given to me by our founder, Dr. Ikeda, on the opening day of the university, I aim to conduct research activities that contribute to world peace and people's happiness. Let's explore together how we can contribute to solving the most pressing global problems while improving our world-class analytical and English language skills at Soka University Faculty of Economics.
D. from Cornell University. D. (Natural Resources) from Cornell University. After working as an economist at the World Bank, he will assume his current position in the spring of 2022.
Associate Professor Shun Chonabayashi
Soka University offers many opportunities to realize your dreams. The more effort you put in, the more possibilities you will have. Hone your skills at Soka University and grow into a person who can contribute to society.
[Career] Graduated Faculty of Economics at Soka University. Completed the doctoral course at the Graduate School of Tsukuba University. PhD (Social Economics). After working as a visiting researcher at Duke University and the University of Pennsylvania in the United States, he has held his current position since 2008.
Professor Manabu Asai
Economics is a field that allows you to analyze both global and everyday problems and come up with practical solutions. It is also a field where both liberal arts and science students can demonstrate their abilities.
[Background] Graduated Faculty of Economics at the University of Tokyo. Completed doctoral studies at Pennsylvania State University in the United States. Ph.D. (Agricultural, Environmental and Regional Economics) and Ph.D. (Demography). After working as Lecturer Faculty of Economics at Soka University, he has been in his current position since 2024.
Professor Mitsuko Chikasada
HOPE is a relatively new program that started in 2019, but many of our alumni have already grown into outstanding individuals and are making great contributions. As we approach our 100th anniversary, I look forward to working with everyone at HOPE to create a new chapter in the history of Soka University.
[Background] Graduated Faculty of Economics at Soka University. Completed doctoral course at the University of Hawaii in the United States. Ph.D. (International Business Management). After working as Lecturer at Monash University Malaysia, he assumed his current position in 2019.
Associate Professor Taeko Yasutake
HOPE is a program where you can experience the joy of learning while encouraging each other with your peers. It is not easy, but you can learn economic problem-solving methods and develop solid skills to play an active role in society.
[Background] Graduated from Soka University of America. Completed doctoral program at Cornell University in the United States. Ph.D. (Economics). After working as a special Lecturer at Hitotsubashi University, he assumed his current position in 2022.
Associate Professor Nobuyuki Kanazawa
"HOPE" related news
CloseFEEL (Faculty of Economics Education Lounge)
FEEL was created to promote the efforts of the Faculty of Faculty of Economics which was selected for the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology's "Distinctive University Education Support Program (Distinctive GP)" in 2007.
- Hours of operation: Monday to Friday 10:00 to 17:00
- PC Use: Five desktop computers are available for use.
- Wireless LAN: Wireless LAN is available.
- DVD viewing: You can watch DVDs related to economics.
- Viewing materials: You can view books on careers and employability, as well as textbooks on Department of Economics and JAS subjects.
- Reception desk: Reception and consultation for various overseas training programs organized by Faculty of Economics
If you have any questions about FEEL, please ask a FEEL staff member.
"FEEL" is a facility established in response to the Faculty of Faculty of Economics being selected for the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology's "Distinctive University Education Support Program (Distinctive GP)." Any student in the Faculty Faculty of Economics can use "FEEL." Each table can be used for self-study or group study. In addition, "FEEL" staff are always on-site, so you can ask for advice on study methods, studying abroad, job hunting, student life, etc. If you have any questions about "FEEL," please contact Faculty of Economics Office.
CloseIn 2023, we conducted training in Hawaii!
IP Hawaii Training
Faculty Faculty of Economics International Program (IP) University of Hawaii at Manoa Training 2024 Theme: "Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Hawaii"
Scenes from the training and comments from participating students
The Soka University Faculty Faculty of Economics International Program (IP) will be conducting a short-term training course on the theme of "Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Hawaii" at the University of Hawaii at Manoa.
In 2024, the program was held over 12 days from February 4th to 15th, 10 days in Japan, with a total of 21 students participating, including 17 first-year students, 3 second-year students, and 1 third-year student enrolled in IP. This training is based on the academic exchange agreement between Soka University and the University of Hawaii at Manoa, and participating students will be credited with Foreign Studies (2 credits).
Below are some photos and videos from the training.
Participant comments
- I was very nervous because it was my first time going abroad. I got my passport and registered for ESTA with my friends, and it took a long time to pack, but once I got there, I had a lot of fun. This Hawaii training was my first overseas experience, and it was great. I think there are many people who work hard to improve their English in order to participate in the Hawaii training, so I would like to tell my juniors about it.
- Since all the participants had been working in IP for more than a year, I noticed that they had high English skills, time management skills, and search skills. Thanks to the presence of my seniors, I was able to feel a sense of tension and participate without just playing around. Each day was intense, and although it seemed long, it was a short time.
- I studied in Hawaii for 10 days, and learned that the impression I had of Hawaii was completely different from what I had expected, and that it is a complex environment. I had heard that they were taking an approach to environmental issues, but I was surprised to see that there were no waste sorting facilities and that empty cans were scattered in the sea. On the other hand, I was very interested to see that recycled cutlery was used in the cafeteria and that ocean warnings were not displayed on signs but in videos. The information I found online and the information I actually got through my five senses were completely different, so I realized once again that I should avoid taking information at face value and acting based on it. (Some parts omitted) The students I passed by at university and the professors who lectured were happy to answer my questions, even those that were not related to the class, so I was able to learn a lot.
- I appreciate the people who prepare and support this program. If there are no them, this program wasn't achieved. I would like to utilize this precious experience to go to the student exchange program in this fall. By participating in this program, I have become more confident in using English than ever before. I will make use of what I learned at the University of Hawaii at Manoa and strive to grow even more in my future university life.
Please donate to the Mariko J. Honma Fund.
Professor Mariko J. Homma (then Dean of Faculty of Economics), who dedicated herself to the development of the Faculty Faculty of Economics International Program (IP) and further contributed to the globalization of Soka University, passed away on March 26, 2016.
In memory of Professor Homma and in keeping with his wishes, we would like to raise donations widely and use them to support the development of global talent among students in the Faculty Faculty of Economics who will lead the future.
Donations are voluntary, but we would appreciate your support.
October 1, 2016
Soka University President Yoshihisa Baba
Junichi Kanzaka, Dean of the Faculty Faculty of Economics, Soka University
<Donation amount>
5,000 yen or more per share
*Donations to the university can be deducted by filing a tax return.
Application period
Accepted at any time
Eligibility
- Graduate of Faculty of Economics Soka University
- Other people who agree with the purpose
Donation Procedures
Donations can be made in two ways:
① When transferring at a bank or post office
If you contact Alumni Relations and Donations Department, we will mail you a transfer form that can be used at a bank or post office.
2. When depositing via online banking or credit card
To make a donation via online banking or credit card, please enter your donation information on the following website.
Donation acceptance site via online banking and credit card
*On the donation information input screen, there is a section that says, "Please feel free to write your opinions and requests for the university." Please enter "Honma Fund" in this section.
*Credit cards accepted are MUFG, DC, UFJ, NICOS, VISA and Master.
Announcement
Please request the special transfer form from Alumni Relations and Donations Department. After completing the transfer procedure, please fill out the enclosed "Donation Application Form" and return it to your university's Alumni Relations and Donations Department in the enclosed reply envelope.
This donation is considered a "donation to a specified public interest corporation" and is eligible for a donation deduction under the Income Tax Act.
After making the payment, the university will send you a receipt and a copy of a certificate issued by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, so please file your tax return at your local tax office.
Please note that, according to a notification from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, if you have a family member who is applying to Soka University or Soka Women’s College 's Junior College in the current academic year, we will not be able to accept donations from the time of application through the end of March of the following year.
Donation inquiries:
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創価大学 校友課
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