Kanazawa University
Kanazawa, Japan • Founded 1949 • World Rank #1012
Overview
Established in 1949, the Kanazawa University (Kanazawa Daigaku) is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the suburban setting of the medium city of Kanazawa (population range of 250,000-499,999 inhabitants), Ishikawa.
Officially recognized by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology of Japan, Kanazawa University is a medium-sized coeducational Japanese higher education institution. Kanazawa University offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.
This 74-year-old Japanese higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations. The acceptance rate range is 10-19% making this Japanese higher education organization an extremely selective institution.
International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment.
Kanazawa University also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
Kanazawa University's campus address and the ways prospective students can reach the institution. For visa queries, contact the international student services office directly rather than central admissions.
Academic Details
Enrolment, faculty headcount, and accreditation data for Kanazawa University — the academic basics in one place. Cross-reference these against programme-specific data when finalising your shortlist.
Academic Structures
Each constituent academic unit at Kanazawa University is captured below — including research centres alongside teaching faculties. Research centres often signal the institution's strategic priorities.
Unit 12 items
- College of Human and Social Sciences
- College of Medical,Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences
- College of Science and Engineering
- College of Transdisciplinary Sciences for Innovation
- Graduate School of Advanced Preventive Medical Sciences
- Graduate School of Frontier Science Initiative
- Graduate School of Human and Socio-Environmental Studies
- Graduate School of Law
- Graduate School of Medical Sciences
- Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology
- Graduate School of Professional Development in Teacher Education
- Institute of Liberal Arts and Science
Degrees
Kanazawa University's degree catalogue by academic level. Continuing education and non-degree pathways sit outside the standard tiers but are sometimes offered alongside.
Other 15 programs
- Biological and Life Sciences
- Cardiology
- Computer Science
- Electrical Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Environmental Studies
- Law
- Materials Engineering
- Mathematics
- Neurosciences
- Oncology
- Pharmacy
- Physics
- Sociology
- Technology
Faculties & Divisions
All faculties operate under Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology of Japan.
Advanced Science Research (Centre) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Natural Sciences
Common Career Paths
- Research Scientist
- Lab Technician
- Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Environment Preservation (Centre) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Environmental Management
Health Service (Centre) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Health Sciences
Higher Education Research (Centre) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Higher Education
Common Career Paths
- Teacher
- Educational Administrator
- Curriculum Specialist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Information Media (Centre) 2 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Information Sciences
- Media Studies
Common Career Paths
- Media Producer
- Content Strategist
- Broadcast Journalist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Regional Collaboration (Centre) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Regional Studies
Human and Social Sciences (College) 8 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Arts and Humanities
- Development Studies
- Economics
- International Studies
- Law
- Regional Studies
- Social Sciences
- Teacher Training
Common Career Paths
- Researcher
- Policy Analyst
- Social Worker
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences (College) 4 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Health Sciences
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
- Pharmacy
Common Career Paths
- Physician
- Clinical Researcher
- Healthcare Specialist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Science and Engineering (College) 8 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Architectural and Environmental Design
- Chemistry
- Computer Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Mathematics
- Mechanical Engineering
- Natural Sciences
- Physics
Common Career Paths
- Engineer
- Project Manager
- Technical Consultant
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Liberal Arts and Science Organisation (Course/Programme) 2 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Arts and Humanities
- Natural Sciences
Common Career Paths
- Research Scientist
- Lab Technician
- Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Organisation of Frontier Science and Innovation (Course/Programme) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Natural Sciences
Common Career Paths
- Research Scientist
- Lab Technician
- Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Organization of Global Affairs (Course/Programme) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- International Studies
Organization of Global Human Resource Development (Course/Programme) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Human Resources
Education (Graduate School) 2 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Education
- Educational Research
Common Career Paths
- Teacher
- Educational Administrator
- Curriculum Specialist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Human and Socio-Environment Studies (Graduate School) 10 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Arts and Humanities
- Development Studies
- Economics
- International Studies
- Law
- Political Sciences
- Regional Studies
- Social Sciences
- Social Studies
- Sociology
Law (Graduate School) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Law
Common Career Paths
- Lawyer
- Legal Consultant
- Compliance Officer
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Medical Science (Graduate School) 7 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Cardiology
- Environmental Studies
- Health Sciences
- Medicine
- Neurosciences
- Oncology
- Pharmacy
Common Career Paths
- Physician
- Clinical Researcher
- Healthcare Specialist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Natural Science and Technology (Graduate School) 15 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Architectural and Environmental Design
- Biological and Life Sciences
- Chemistry
- Computer Engineering
- Computer Science
- Electrical Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Environmental Studies
- Materials Engineering
- Mathematics
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechanics
- Natural Sciences
- Physics
- Technology
Common Career Paths
- Research Scientist
- Lab Technician
- Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Foreign Languages (Institute) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Modern Languages
Common Career Paths
- Translator
- Interpreter
- Language Teacher
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Nature and Environmental Technology (Institute) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Environmental Engineering
Common Career Paths
- Environmental Consultant
- Sustainability Officer
- Climate Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Career Design for Gender Equality (Laboratory) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Gender Studies
Common Career Paths
- Designer
- Creative Director
- UX Researcher
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Cancer (Research Division) 4 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Cell Biology
- Medicine
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
Child Mental Development (Research Division) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Child Care and Development
Programs Offered
Below are Kanazawa University's active programmes grouped by degree level, with search. Use the filter to narrow by keyword and the level groupings to compare options at the same qualification tier.
Bachelor's Degree
21 programmes
Kanazawa University runs 21 programmes at bachelor's level — undergraduate programmes that usually span three to four years and serve as the standard entry route into a profession or further study.
College of Science and Engineering, School of Geosciences and Civil Engineering Civil Engineering & Construction 4 years On-campus Japanese
Institute of Liberal Arts and Science，School of General Education Education & Teaching On-campus Japanese
College of Medical,Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, School of Health Sciences Pharmacy 4 years On-campus Japanese
College of Medical,Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, School of Medical and Phamaceutical Sciences Pharmacy 4 years On-campus Japanese
College of Medical,Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, School of Pharmacy Pharmacy 6 years On-campus Japanese
College of Medical,Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, School of Medicine Pharmacy 6 years On-campus Japanese
College of Science and Engineering, School of Biological Science and Technology Biological Sciences 4 years On-campus Japanese
College of Science and Engineering, School of Electrical, Information and Communication Engineering Electrical Engineering 4 years On-campus Japanese
College of Science and Engineering, School of Frontier Engineering General Engineering 4 years On-campus Japanese
College of Science and Engineering, School of Mechanical Engineering Mechanical Engineering 4 years On-campus Japanese
College of Science and Engineering, School of Chemistry Chemistry 4 years On-campus Japanese
College of Science and Engineering, School of Mathematics and Physics Physics & Astronomy 4 years On-campus Japanese
College of Human and Social Sciences, School of International Studies Politics & International Relations 4 years On-campus Japanese
College of Transdisciplinary Sciences for Innovation,School of Entrepreneurial and Innovation Studies Entrepreneurship 4 years On-campus Japanese
College of Human and Social Sciences, School of Regional Development Studies Humanities & Cultural Studies 4 years On-campus Japanese
College of Human and Social Sciences, School of Teacher Education Education & Teaching 4 years On-campus Japanese
College of Human and Social Sciences, School of Economics Economics 4 years On-campus Japanese
College of Human and Social Sciences, School of Law Law 4 years On-campus Japanese
College of Human and Social Sciences, School of Humanities Humanities & Cultural Studies 4 years On-campus Japanese
College of Transdisciplinary Sciences for Innovation,School of Smart Technology and Innovation Liberal Arts 4 years On-campus Japanese
College of Transdisciplinary Sciences for Innovation,School of Tourism Sciences and Design Tourism & Leisure 4 years On-campus Japanese
No programmes match your filter in this level.
Master's Degree
4 programmes
These 4 programmes form Kanazawa University's master's offering, combining advanced coursework with independent work that signals readiness for leadership or research.
Graduate School of Frontier Science Initiative Liberal Arts 2 years On-campus Japanese
Graduate School of Medical Sciences Medicine 2 years On-campus Japanese
Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology General Engineering 2 years On-campus Japanese
Graduate School of Human and Socio-Environmental Studies Humanities & Cultural Studies 2 years On-campus Japanese
No programmes match your filter in this level.
Professional Doctorate
2 programmes
Kanazawa University lists 2 programmes awarding a doctorate — the apex qualification for those pursuing research leadership or an academic career.
Graduate School of Law Law 3 years On-campus Japanese
Graduate School of Professional Development in Teacher Education Education & Teaching 2 years On-campus Japanese
No programmes match your filter in this level.
Doctorate
1 programme
Kanazawa University lists 1 programme awarding a doctorate — the apex qualification for those pursuing research leadership or an academic career.
Graduate School of Advanced Preventive Medical Sciences Medicine 2 years On-campus Japanese
No programmes match your filter in this level.
How to apply to Kanazawa University
Application guidance for Kanazawa University, structured as five practical steps with attention to documents and admissions communication.
- 1 Research programmes at Kanazawa University
Use the programme finder to browse Kanazawa University's 28 active programmes. Filter by keyword or scan by degree level. Read curriculum details on each programme's dedicated page if available.
- 2 Review admissions criteria
Programme-level requirements at Kanazawa University typically include academic transcripts, language proficiency proof, identity documents, and a personal statement or interview. Confirm specific requirements with the admissions office.
- 3 Gather supporting documents
Prepare academic transcripts, ID/passport copies, language proficiency proof, a personal statement, and reference letters. International candidates may need apostilled or notarised translations — start early to avoid deadline pressure.
- 4 Lodge your application
Kanazawa University processes applications through www.kanazawa-u.ac.jp. Create an account, fill out the application form, and submit your documents. Note application deadlines, which vary by intake and programme.
- 5 Confirm receipt and track progress
Confirm receipt of your application with the admissions office and keep an eye on your portal for status changes. Reach the institution by phone at +81 (76) 264 5111. Quick responses to any follow-up requests keep your application moving smoothly through the review process.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kanazawa University
Quick reference for Kanazawa University: founding, control type, student body, rankings, and recognition status in one place.
When was Kanazawa University founded?
Kanazawa University was established in 1949 (approximately 77 years ago).
Where can I find Kanazawa University?
The institution is located in Kanazawa, Japan.
What is Kanazawa University's control type?
It is a public higher-education institution.
How many students does Kanazawa University have?
The institution has a student body of 9,000-9,999.
Where does Kanazawa University stand in university rankings?
Kanazawa University is ranked #1012 globally and #20 in Japan.
What is Kanazawa University's academic structure?
Kanazawa University has 12 academic units.
Is Kanazawa University accredited?
Yes, Kanazawa University is recognised by Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT).
What is Kanazawa University's official website?
You can find Kanazawa University online at www.kanazawa-u.ac.jp.
Top-Ranked Universities in Japan
National rankings in Japan often weight different signals than international rankings. The leaders below typically top both, but the order can differ meaningfully.
Faculties at Nearby Universities
Industry placements and co-op programmes around Kanazawa University draw on the same regional employer base. The nearby universities listed below often compete for similar internship slots.
Where Else to Study Pharmacy
Cohort intake size shapes class culture meaningfully in Pharmacy. Some Japan institutions accept a few dozen, others hundreds — the difference affects peer-learning depth and faculty access.
Universities Often Compared with Kanazawa University
Peer universities to Kanazawa University by academic scale and prestige are listed below. These often share comparable faculty depth, research output, and graduate outcomes, making the comparison more meaningful than ranking alone.
