Waseda University
Tokyo, Japan • Founded 1882 • World Rank #529
Updated May 2026
Overview
Established in 1882, the Waseda University (Waseda Daigaku) is a private higher education institution located in the urban setting of the large metropolis of Tokyo (population range of over 5,000,000 inhabitants).
Officially recognized by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology of Japan, Waseda University is a very large-sized coeducational Japanese higher education institution. Waseda 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 141-year-old Japanese higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations. The acceptance rate range is 0-9% making this Japanese higher education organization an extremely selective institution.
International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment.
Waseda University also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, study abroad and exchange programs, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
Waseda University's street address and primary contact methods. Social channels often differentiate by purpose — admissions on one, alumni on another, events on a third.
Academic Details
Enrolment, faculty headcount, and accreditation data for Waseda University — the academic basics in one place. Cross-reference these against programme-specific data when finalising your shortlist.
Academic Structures
Waseda University's academic backbone. Endowed schools (named after donors) may differ from general units in funding levels, scholarships available, and curriculum focus.
Unit 30 items
- Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering
- Graduate School of Asia-Pacific Studies
- Graduate School of Commerce
- Graduate School of Creative Science and Engineering
- Graduate School of Economics
- Graduate School of Education
- Graduate School of Environment and Energy Engineering
- Graduate School of Fundamental Science and Engineering
- Graduate School of Information, Production and Systems
- Graduate School of International Culture and Communication
- Graduate School of Japanese Applied Linguistics
- Graduate School of Law
- Graduate School of Letters, Arts and Sciences
- Graduate School of Political Science
- Graduate School of Social Sciences
- Graduate School of Sport Sciences
- School of Advanced Science and Engineering
- School of Commerce
- School of Creative Science and Engineering
- School of Culture, Media and Society
- School of Education
- School of Fundamental Science and Engineering
- School of Human Sciences
- School of Humanities and Social Sciences
- School of International Liberal Studies
- School of Law
- School of Political Science and Economics
- School of Social Sciences
- School of Sport Sciences
- Waseda Business School
Degrees
Waseda University's qualifications are listed below by level, so you can quickly find the route that matches your study stage. Some levels feed naturally into the next, while others stand alone.
Other 15 programs
- Arts and Humanities
- Business and Commerce
- Cognitive Sciences
- Computer Science
- Economics
- Education
- Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Information Sciences
- International Relations and Diplomacy
- Japanese
- Law
- Political Sciences
- Sociology
- Sports Medicine
Faculties & Divisions
All faculties operate under Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology of Japan.
Commerce (Faculty) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Business and Commerce
Education (Faculty) 8 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Cultural Studies
- Education
- English
- Japanese
- Mathematics
- Natural Sciences
- Social Sciences
- Social Studies
Common Career Paths
- Teacher
- Educational Administrator
- Curriculum Specialist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Letters, Arts and Sciences II (Faculty) 9 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Arts and Humanities
- Folklore
- History
- Linguistics
- Literature
- Performing Arts
- Philosophy
- Religion
- Social Sciences
Common Career Paths
- Research Scientist
- Lab Technician
- Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Political Science and Economics (Faculty) 3 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Economics
- International Economics
- Political Sciences
Common Career Paths
- Economist
- Policy Analyst
- Financial Consultant
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Accountancy (Graduate School) 2 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Accountancy
- Business Administration
Advanced Science and Engineering (Graduate School) 7 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Applied Chemistry
- Applied Physics
- Biochemistry
- Biological and Life Sciences
- Chemistry
- Electrical Engineering
- Physics
Common Career Paths
- Engineer
- Project Manager
- Technical Consultant
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Asia-Pacific Studies (Graduate School) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Commerce (Graduate School) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Creative Science and Engineering (Graduate School) 7 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Architecture
- Civil Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Management Systems
- Mechanical Engineering
- Natural Resources
Common Career Paths
- Engineer
- Project Manager
- Technical Consultant
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Economics (Graduate School) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Economics
Common Career Paths
- Economist
- Policy Analyst
- Financial Consultant
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Education (Graduate School) 7 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Curriculum
- Education
- Educational Sciences
- English
- Humanities and Social Science Education
- Japanese
- Mathematics Education
Common Career Paths
- Teacher
- Educational Administrator
- Curriculum Specialist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Environment and Energy Engineering (Graduate School) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Engineer
- Project Manager
- Technical Consultant
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Finance, Accounting and Law (Graduate School) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Accountant
- Auditor
- Financial Controller
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Fundamental Science and Engineering (Graduate School) 8 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Aeronautical and Aerospace Engineering
- Applied Mathematics
- Computer Engineering
- Computer Science
- Electronic Engineering
- Mathematics
- Mechanical Engineering
- Multimedia
Common Career Paths
- Engineer
- Project Manager
- Technical Consultant
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Global Information and Telecommunication Studies (Graduate School) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Journalist
- Public Relations Specialist
- Content Strategist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Human Sciences (Graduate School) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Research Scientist
- Lab Technician
- Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Information, Production and Systems (Graduate School) 3 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Computer Engineering
- Information Sciences
- Information Technology
Japanese Applied Linguistics (Graduate School) 2 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Applied Linguistics
- Japanese
Law (Graduate School) 3 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Civil Law
- Law
- Public Law
Common Career Paths
- Lawyer
- Legal Consultant
- Compliance Officer
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Letters, Arts and Sciences (Graduate School) 17 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Arts and Humanities
- Chinese
- Cultural Studies
- Education
- English
- Fine Arts
- French
- German
- History
- Japanese
- Literature
- Natural Sciences
- Philosophical Schools
- Philosophy
- Psychology
- Russian
- Sociology
Common Career Paths
- Research Scientist
- Lab Technician
- Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Political Science (Graduate School) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Political Sciences
Common Career Paths
- Research Scientist
- Lab Technician
- Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Public Management (Graduate School) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Okuma School
Common Career Paths
- Operations Manager
- Project Manager
- HR Manager
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Science and Engineering (Graduate School) 3 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Engineering
- Mathematics and Computer Science
- Natural Sciences
Common Career Paths
- Engineer
- Project Manager
- Technical Consultant
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Social Sciences (Graduate School) 5 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- International Studies
- Management
- Political Sciences
- Regional Studies
- Social Sciences
Common Career Paths
- Researcher
- Policy Analyst
- Social Worker
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Sport Sciences (Graduate School) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Sports
Common Career Paths
- Research Scientist
- Lab Technician
- Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Teacher Education (Graduate School) 2 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Education
- Teacher Training
Common Career Paths
- Teacher
- Educational Administrator
- Curriculum Specialist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Asia-Pacific Studies (Research Division) 2 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Asian Studies
- Pacific Area Studies
Business Administration (Research Division) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Business Analyst
- Operations Manager
- Strategy Consultant
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Comparative Law (Research Division) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Lawyer
- Legal Consultant
- Compliance Officer
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Comprehensive Research Organisation (Research Division) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Contemporary Political and Economic Affairs (Research Division) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Education (Research Division) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Advanced Studies
Common Career Paths
- Teacher
- Educational Administrator
- Curriculum Specialist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Environment (Research Division) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Environmental Studies
Environmental Safety (Research Division) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Environmental Consultant
- Sustainability Officer
- Climate Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Global Information and Telecommunications (Research Division) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Journalist
- Public Relations Specialist
- Content Strategist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Human Sciences (Research Division) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Social Sciences
Common Career Paths
- Research Scientist
- Lab Technician
- Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Human Services (Research Division) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
International Education (Research Division) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Teacher
- Educational Administrator
- Curriculum Specialist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Japanese Language (Research Division) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Materials Science and Technology (Research Division) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Kagami Memorial
Common Career Paths
- Research Scientist
- Lab Technician
- Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Media Network (Research Division) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Media Producer
- Content Strategist
- Broadcast Journalist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Open Education (Research Division) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Teacher
- Educational Administrator
- Curriculum Specialist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Science and Engineering (Research Division) 3 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Engineering
- Mathematics and Computer Science
- Natural Sciences
Common Career Paths
- Engineer
- Project Manager
- Technical Consultant
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Waseda University Archives (Research Division) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Advanced Science and Engineering (School) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Engineer
- Project Manager
- Technical Consultant
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Creative Science and Engineering (School) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Engineer
- Project Manager
- Technical Consultant
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Culture, Media and Society (School) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Media Producer
- Content Strategist
- Broadcast Journalist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Fundamental Science and Engineering (School) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Engineer
- Project Manager
- Technical Consultant
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Human Sciences (School) 6 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Behavioural Sciences
- Cognitive Sciences
- Environmental Studies
- Health Sciences
- Social Sciences
- Social Welfare
Common Career Paths
- Research Scientist
- Lab Technician
- Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Humanities and Social Sciences (School) 20 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Archaeology
- Art History
- Chinese
- Education
- English
- Environmental Studies
- Film
- French
- German
- Health Sciences
- History
- Japanese
- Philosophical Schools
- Philosophy
- Psychology
- Russian
- Social Sciences
- Social Welfare
- Sociology
- Theatre
Common Career Paths
- Researcher
- Policy Analyst
- Social Worker
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
International Liberal Studies (School) 2 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Arts and Humanities
- International Studies
Law (School) 8 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Administrative Law
- Constitutional Law
- International Law
- Law
- Mass Communication
- Public Administration
- Public Law
- Taxation
Common Career Paths
- Lawyer
- Legal Consultant
- Compliance Officer
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Letters, Arts and Sciences I (School) 19 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Archaeology
- Art History
- Arts and Humanities
- Chinese
- English
- Film
- French
- German
- History
- Japanese
- Mathematics and Computer Science
- Natural Sciences
- Philosophical Schools
- Philosophy
- Psychology
- Russian
- Sociology
- Theatre
- Writing
Common Career Paths
- Research Scientist
- Lab Technician
- Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Science and Engineering (School) 18 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Applied Chemistry
- Applied Physics
- Architecture
- Biological and Life Sciences
- Biomedical Engineering
- Chemistry
- Civil Engineering
- Computer Science
- Electrical Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Information Management
- Management Systems
- Materials Engineering
- Mathematics
- Mechanical Engineering
- Nanotechnology
- Natural Resources
- Physics
Common Career Paths
- Engineer
- Project Manager
- Technical Consultant
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Social Sciences (School) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Researcher
- Policy Analyst
- Social Worker
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Sport Sciences (School) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Sports
Common Career Paths
- Research Scientist
- Lab Technician
- Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Programs Offered
The programme finder below covers every degree Waseda University currently offers. Programme codes here often map to international classification systems used for credential recognition abroad.
48 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in Japan
Bachelor's Degree 14 programmes
Showing 10 of 14.
Master's Degree 20 programmes
Showing 10 of 20.
Doctorate 14 programmes
Showing 10 of 14.
How to apply to Waseda University
What applying to Waseda University typically involves — research, eligibility check, document prep, submission, and follow-up.
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1
Find a programme that fits your goals
Start by exploring the programmes section on this page. Waseda University runs 48 active programmes across multiple degree levels. Narrow by qualification tier and read each programme description before shortlisting.
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2
Confirm you meet the requirements
Before applying to Waseda University, confirm you meet the academic, language, and document requirements for your chosen programme. International applicants should also check visa eligibility for Japan.
-
3
Assemble your application package
Standard documents: official transcripts, identity proof, language test results, personal statement, and references. Confirm exact requirements with Waseda University's admissions office before assembling, as expectations vary by programme.
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4
Submit your application
Lodge your application through the official website (www.waseda.jp). Online forms are the standard route. Save your draft frequently and submit before the programme deadline.
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5
Contact admissions and follow up
Verify your application has been received by the admissions team. Reach the institution by phone at +81 (3) 3204 2253. Monitor the portal for status updates, interview invitations, or document requests, and respond within the stated deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions about Waseda University
Quick answers to the most common questions about Waseda University — covering location, founding, ranking, programmes, and admissions context.
In what year was Waseda University established?
Waseda University was founded in 1882 (approximately 144 years ago).
In which city is Waseda University?
Waseda University is based in Tokyo, Japan.
Is Waseda University a public or private institution?
It is a private higher-education institution.
How many students study at Waseda University?
Waseda University has approximately 45,000-49,999 students.
Where does Waseda University stand in university rankings?
Waseda University is ranked #529 globally and #11 in Japan.
How many faculties does Waseda University have?
The institution comprises 30 academic units.
Is Waseda University officially recognised?
The institution holds recognition from Japan University Accreditation Association (JUAA).
Where can I learn more about Waseda University?
Waseda University's official website is www.waseda.jp.
Top-Ranked Universities in Japan
Top Japan universities often run international branch campuses. Waseda University's international footprint compared to this benchmark signals global engagement scale.
Members of Open Education Consortium (OEC)
Member institutions of Open Education Consortium (OEC) often have reciprocity arrangements on accreditation — degrees from one member institution typically face fewer credential-recognition issues at others.
Faculties at nearby universities
Within easy reach of Waseda University, these institutions host comparable faculties and admissions structures — useful for regional shortlisting. Regional universities often coordinate on credit transfer and joint programme delivery.
Where Else to Study General Engineering
Industry advisory boards on General Engineering programmes signal employer engagement and curriculum currency. Check whether each Japan alternative to Waseda University publishes its industry partners.
Universities Compared with Waseda University
Cross-peer scholarship reciprocity exists in some systems where peer institutions accept each other's scholarship students. Worth checking for Waseda University if location flexibility matters.
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