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Koyasan University

Kōya, Japan Founded 1886

Overview

English Name: Koyasan University
Local Name: 高野山大学
Acronyms: KU
Founded: 1886
Control Type: Private
Religious Affiliation: Buddhism
Koyasan University campus from the outside
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Founded in 1886, the Koyasan University (Koyasan Daigaku) is a private higher education institution located in the medium town of Koya (population range of 2,500-9,999 inhabitants), Wakayama.

Officially recognized by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology of Japan, Koyasan University (KU) is a coeducational Japanese higher education institution formally affiliated with the Buddhist religion. Koyasan University (KU) 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 138-year-old Japanese higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations. International students are welcome to apply for enrollment.

KU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, sports facilities, as well as administrative services.

Location & Contact

Mailing address, phone, email, and social channels for Koyasan University are gathered below for quick reference. Most enquiries route through the admissions team unless noted otherwise.

Address: Wakayama Prefecture Koya-cho, Ito-gun, 385
Postal Code: 648-0280
Map:
Phone: +81 (736) 56 2921
Fax: +81 (736) 56 2746
Social Media:

Academic Details

Koyasan University's academic structure, enrolment numbers, and accreditation context are gathered below. Together they describe how the institution operates beyond the surface-level overview.

Academic Year: April to March (April-September; September-March)
Accrediting Agency: Japan University Accreditation Association (JUAA)
Admission Requirements: Graduation from high school or equivalent, and entrance examination

Academic Structures

Below is how Koyasan University is organised academically — the schools, faculties, and units that house its programmes. Larger institutions often run multi-faculty divisions to coordinate cross-disciplinary work.

Unit 2 items
  • Faculty of literature
  • Graduate School of Letters

Degrees

Koyasan University offers degrees across multiple levels. Full-time, part-time, and sandwich (with placement year) modes change total time commitment and total cost meaningfully.

Other 5 programs
  • Arts and Humanities
  • Asian Religious Studies
  • Cultural Studies
  • Esoteric Practices
  • Japanese

Faculties & Divisions

All faculties operate under Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology of Japan.

Esoteric Buddhism Culture (Department/Division) 2 subjects offered

Specialisations & Subjects

  • Asian Religious Studies
  • Esoteric Practices
Letters (Faculty) 4 subjects offered

Specialisations & Subjects

  • Arts and Humanities
  • Cultural Studies
  • Japanese
  • Literature
Graduate Studies (Graduate School) 5 subjects offered

Specialisations & Subjects

  • Arts and Humanities
  • Asian Religious Studies
  • Cultural Studies
  • Esoteric Practices
  • Japanese

Programs Offered

Koyasan University's programme list, with search and degree-level grouping. Search matches programme names; if you don't see your subject, check the divisions section to locate the relevant faculty.

Bachelor's Degree

3 programmes

Koyasan University lists 3 programmes that award a bachelor's degree — the foundational tier where students establish a discipline before narrowing their focus later.

Mikkyo Studies 密教学科
Elementary Education 児童教育コース Education & Teaching
Secondary English Education 中等英語教育コース Education & Teaching

Master's Degree

3 programmes

Koyasan University offers 3 programmes at master's level — postgraduate programmes that deepen a specialism, usually over one to two years after a bachelor's degree.

Buddhist Studies 仏教学専攻 Religious Studies
Mikkyo Studies 密教学専攻
Mikkyo Studies (Correspondence Education) 密教学専攻(通信教育課程) Education & Teaching

Doctorate

2 programmes

Koyasan University delivers 2 programmes at doctoral level for graduates committed to advancing the frontier of their discipline through original inquiry.

Buddhist Studies 仏教学専攻 Religious Studies
Mikkyo Studies 密教学専攻

How to apply to Koyasan University

Five steps that capture how most applications to Koyasan University flow, from research through submission to follow-up correspondence.

  1. 1
    Browse the programme catalogue

    Start by exploring the programmes section on this page. Koyasan University runs 8 active programmes across multiple degree levels. Narrow by qualification tier and read each programme description before shortlisting.

  2. 2
    Check eligibility for your chosen programme

    Before applying to Koyasan University, confirm you meet the academic, language, and document requirements for your chosen programme. International applicants should also check visa eligibility for Japan.

  3. 3
    Get your documents ready

    Standard documents: official transcripts, identity proof, language test results, personal statement, and references. Confirm exact requirements with Koyasan University's admissions office before assembling, as expectations vary by programme.

  4. 4
    Apply through the official channel

    Lodge your application through the official website (www.koyasan-u.ac.jp). Online forms are the standard route. Save your draft frequently and submit before the programme deadline.

  5. 5
    Reach out and track your application

    Verify your application has been received by the admissions team. Reach the institution by phone at +81 (736) 56 2921. Monitor the portal for status updates, interview invitations, or document requests, and respond within the stated deadlines.

Frequently Asked Questions about Koyasan University

Common questions students ask about Koyasan University — answers pulled straight from the institution's published profile.

When did Koyasan University open?

Koyasan University traces its founding to 1886 (approximately 140 years ago).

In which city is Koyasan University?

Koyasan University is based in Kōya, Japan.

Is Koyasan University public or private?

Koyasan University is a private institution.

What is Koyasan University's religious tradition?

Yes, Koyasan University is affiliated with Buddhism.

What is Koyasan University's academic structure?

The institution comprises 2 academic units.

Who recognises Koyasan University?

Yes, Koyasan University is recognised by Japan University Accreditation Association (JUAA).

Where can I learn more about Koyasan University?

You can find Koyasan University online at www.koyasan-u.ac.jp.

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