1. Top
2. About
3. Message from the Dean

Yokohama National University is guided by the fundamental principles of “Be Active,” “Be Innovative,” “Be Open,” “Be Global,” and “Be Diverse.” Our mission is to contribute to society as an “international hub of practical science” that creates and implements knowledge grounded in science by advancing cutting-edge research and nurturing individuals who will lead the next era.

In pursuit of these missions, we have actively implemented various reforms. In 2001, we became the first newly established university to prioritize and reorganize graduate schools, shifting our educational and research organization from a traditional college-based structure to one focused on graduate school. This initiative led to the establishment of the Graduate School of Engineering, which is an educational organization responsible for fundamental education in science and engineering disciplines relevant to manufacturing, along with the Faculty of Engineering, which is a research organization dedicated to fostering innovative creation in manufacturing.

In 2007, we introduced the Pi-type Engineering Degree (PED) program in our master’s and doctoral programs. Centered around studio education, this program aims to cultivate practical engineers and researchers capable of integrating science and technology in practical contexts with a broad perspective. We have also been committed to globalization. Starting from the academic year 2015, lectures in our graduate programs have been conducted in English, and we have incorporated international internship subjects into our curriculum. Furthermore, we have established double degree programs with graduate schools at overseas universities, enabling students to pursue multiple Master’s or Doctoral degrees.

In 2018, we reorganized the Graduate School of Engineering into the newly established Graduate School of Engineering Science to contribute to the further development of fundamental science and engineering for manufacturing, and to foster individuals who can play central and leading roles in future manufacturing. The international excellence of Japan’s manufacturing industry has relied heavily on the superiority of productivity in terms of both quality and quantity in the production field. However, even in these conventional industrial structures, there is a strong demand for further strengthening and development of industrial competence, especially through innovation. Specifically, in the fields related to cutting-edge technologies such as information and communication technology, biotechnology, nanotechnology, and green technology, which are driving industrial growth, there is a need for a new engineering science approach built not only upon engineering, which has supported industrial development so far but also science, incorporating the study of scientific disciplines. The city of Yokohama and the Kanagawa prefecture, where our university is located, are home to numerous advanced public research institutions and private companies. The realization of nurturing individuals who can drive innovation is eagerly anticipated across various industrial sectors.

The establishment of the Graduate School of Engineering Science has enabled us to confer degrees not only in engineering but also in science for the fields of chemistry, physics, and mathematics. Subjects are categorized horizontally into four groups (information, science, engineering, and professional course groups) and vertically into three groups (Core, Major, and Specialized courses). This format makes it easier for students to organize their studies. By making information course group subjects compulsory for all students and giving opportunities for engineering students to take science course group subjects and science students to take engineering course group subjects, we can now cultivate individuals capable of thinking with a broad and flexible mindset.

In 2021, we established the Management Advisory Council, which includes external experts, to incorporate societal perspectives into our operation continually. Every year, the council provides consultation on various aspects such as desired graduate attributes, graduate education approaches, and progress in educational initiatives. Taking their advice and suggestions into account, we conduct evaluations and take measures in areas such as quality assurance in specific academic fields, adjustments and improvements to course contents and teaching methods, and the establishment of educational management systems. Through these efforts, we strive for the continuous improvement of the quality of education in the graduate school.

Currently, there are approximately 750 students in the master’s program and around 160 students in the doctoral program, guided by about 150 full-time faculty members. Since the establishment of the Faculty of Engineering in 1963, approximately 16,000 individuals have graduated and are actively contributing worldwide. We hope that, following the footsteps of these esteemed alumni, you will strive for academic excellence under the time-honored spirit of "Meikyo Shizen," together with colleagues gathered from all over the world at our lush green Tokiwadai campus, and grow as individuals who will become leaders in society.

Dr. UMEZAWA Osamu
Dean
Graduate School of Engineering Science
and Faculty of Engineering