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Soka University

Tokyo, Japan • Founded 1971 • QS 2026 #1401-1501

Updated Nov 2026 · Source: soka.ac.jp

Overview

English Name: Soka University
Founded: 1971
Institution Type: University
Control Type: Private
Rankings:
QS World University Rankings 2026 #1401-1501 SCImago 2026 #2974

Soka University is a private university in Japan that opened in 1971.

Its English-language site presents undergraduate education through faculties of Economics and Business Administration, Law, Letters, Education, International Liberal Arts, Science and Engineering, and Nursing, with a School for Excellence in Educational Development that supports general education across the university. Postgraduate study is organised into separate graduate schools, including Economics, Law, Letters, Education, International Peace Studies, and Science and Engineering, alongside professional schools for law and teacher education.

A distance learning division is also listed. For international applicants, the site offers an admissions information section, online counseling sessions, an exchange program for inbound students, English Medium Programs, a Japan Studies Center, and a dormitory for international students.

Tuition and financial aid are described on a dedicated page, and a new grant-type scholarship system is announced from 2026.

Location & Contact

Below are Soka University's address, location, and primary contact channels.

Address: 1-236 Tangi-cho Hachioji
Postal Code: 192-0003
Social Media:

Academic Details

A snapshot of Soka University's academic profile — enrolment, staffing, and recognition.

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

Academic Structures

Soka University's academic structure — schools, colleges, and divisions — is listed below.

Unit 9 items
  • Graduate School of Economics
  • Graduate School of Education
  • Graduate School of Humanities
  • Graduate School of International Peace Studies
  • Graduate School of Law
  • Graduate School of Letters
  • Graduate School of Science and Engineering
  • Graduate School of Teacher Education
  • Law School

Faculties & Divisions

Each of Soka University's faculties and its subject areas are listed below.

Intensive Japanese Studies (Course/Programme) 1 subject offered

Specialisations & Subjects

  • Japanese
Business Administration (Faculty) 1 subject offered

Specialisations & Subjects

  • Business Administration
Economics (Faculty) 1 subject offered

Specialisations & Subjects

  • Economics
Education (Faculty) 2 subjects offered

Specialisations & Subjects

  • Education
  • Primary Education
International Liberal Arts (Faculty) 7 subjects offered

Specialisations & Subjects

  • Business Administration
  • Cultural Studies
  • Economics
  • English
  • History
  • International Studies
  • Political Sciences
International Liberal Studies (Faculty) 2 subjects offered

Specialisations & Subjects

  • Cultural Studies
  • English
Law (Faculty) 1 subject offered

Specialisations & Subjects

  • Law
Letters (Faculty) 2 subjects offered

Specialisations & Subjects

  • Arts and Humanities
  • English
Science and Engineering (Faculty) 5 subjects offered

Specialisations & Subjects

  • Bioengineering
  • Engineering
  • Environmental Engineering
  • Information Sciences
  • Natural Sciences
Economics (Graduate School) 2 subjects offered

Specialisations & Subjects

  • Economics
  • International Business
Engineering (Graduate School) 3 subjects offered

Specialisations & Subjects

  • Bioengineering
  • Engineering
  • Environmental Engineering
International Studies for Peace (Graduate School) 2 subjects offered

Specialisations & Subjects

  • International Studies
  • Peace and Disarmament
Law (Graduate School) 1 subject offered

Specialisations & Subjects

  • Law
Letters (Graduate School) 3 subjects offered

Specialisations & Subjects

  • Arts and Humanities
  • Education
  • English
Science and Engineering (Graduate School) 4 subjects offered

Specialisations & Subjects

  • Biological and Life Sciences
  • Computer Engineering
  • Environmental Engineering
  • Information Technology
Nursing (School) 1 subject offered

Specialisations & Subjects

  • Nursing

Programs Offered

Soka University's programme catalogue is grouped by level below.

18 programmes on record. Compare these on the programs page All programs in Japan

Doctorate 5 programmes

The Graduate School of Economics - Doctoral Program
Economics

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

The Graduate School of Education - Doctoral Program
Education & Teaching

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

The Graduate School of Law - Doctoral Program
Law

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

The Graduate School of Letters - Doctoral Program
Humanities & Cultural Studies

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

The Graduate School of Science and Engineering - Doctoral Program
General Engineering

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

How to apply to Soka University

A five-step path through the application process at Soka University.

  1. 1
    Find a programme that fits your goals

    Soka University's catalogue includes 18 programmes. Browse by level, identify candidates matching your prior qualifications, and note their entry requirements for the next step.

  2. 2
    Confirm you meet the requirements

    Entry requirements vary by programme and degree level. Verify academic minimums, language tests (if international), and any additional documents required for Soka University's admissions process.

  3. 3
    Assemble your application package

    Typical documents include academic transcripts, identity proof (passport or national ID), language proficiency test scores, a personal statement or motivation letter, and recommendation letters. International applicants should account for translation and notarisation time.

  4. 4
    Submit your application

    Submit your completed application through Soka University's official website at www.soka.ac.jp. Most institutions use an online portal — register an account, complete the application form, and upload your prepared documents. Keep copies of all submissions and confirmation receipts.

  5. 5
    Contact admissions and follow up

    Follow up to confirm your application was received and is being processed. Admissions teams may request interviews or additional documents — respond promptly to keep your application active.

Frequently Asked Questions about Soka University

Quick reference for Soka University: founding, control type, and recognition status.

How old is Soka University?

The institution opened in 1971 (approximately 55 years ago).

What city is Soka University in?

Soka University operates from Tokyo, Japan.

Is Soka University a public or private institution?

It is a private higher-education institution.

How is Soka University ranked?

Soka University holds rank QS 2026 #1401-1501.

How many faculties does Soka University have?

Soka University has 9 academic units.

Who recognises Soka University?

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

How do I find Soka University online?

The institution's website is www.soka.ac.jp.

Top-Ranked Universities in Japan

Research output among Japan's top universities sets the publication-and-citation upper bound. Comparing Soka University's research output to this benchmark gives a fair institutional read.

Faculties at nearby universities

Also in Tokyo: universities located close to Soka University.

Where Else to Study Education & Teaching

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