International Christian University (ICU) Summary
International Christian University, or ICU, is one of Japan's top private liberal arts universities. ICU is known for its bilingual education, international learning, small classes, flexible academics, and global outlook. ICU is situated in Mitaka, Tokyo. At ICU, students have the chance to explore a diverse array of disciplines in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, education, international relations, business-related fields, language studies, media, culture, public policy, peace studies, and environmental studies in a distinctive liberal arts education. It is a very international Japanese university option for students with English and Japanese academic pathways. ICU was founded in 1953 with the vision of promoting peace, international understanding, liberal education and responsible world citizenship in the post-World War II period. The university has a strong identity based on dialogue, critical thinking, academic freedom and cross-cultural learning. In most Japanese universities students enter a fixed department from the beginning of their studies. At ICU, however, students can explore different academic areas before choosing a major. The flexibility of liberal arts is one of the top strengths of this model. The university attracts students interested in international relations, public policy, economics, business, sociology, psychology, education, linguistics, literature, philosophy, media studies, cultural studies, peace studies, environmental studies, and the natural sciences. Students can combine subjects from different disciplines and customize an academic path to their career goals. ICU is also famous for its bilingual education system. Depending on student background and program pathway, students can study in English and Japanese. International students can come in through English-based admissions and gradually learn Japanese and Japanese students develop a strong English academic ability. This creates a multicultural classroom where students learn from different perspectives. The Mitaka campus is spacious, green and peaceful, but in Tokyo. Students can enjoy a focused academic environment with access to libraries, classrooms, student housing, sports facilities, language learning support, student clubs and international exchange opportunities. But at the same time, Tokyo’s professional, cultural and academic opportunities are open. ICU offers student support, scholarships, Japanese language education, academic advising, exchange opportunities and career guidance for international students. The university has an extensive international network and exchange agreements with universities worldwide. ICU graduates can find jobs in international organizations, NGOs, diplomacy, education, media, business, consulting, public policy, research, translation, communication, finance, technology companies and global corporations. Also many students continue to study in Japan or abroad. Overall, International Christian University is a great choice for students looking for a private liberal arts university in Japan that offers bilingual education, international exposure, academic flexibility and strong career possibilities in global fields.
