Hokkaido University - Graduate School of Business and Commerce

The Graduate School of Economics and Business at Hokkaido University is a research-focused institution that develops economists, business specialists and policy professionals through rigorous training across economics, business administration and accounting. Located on the university’s green Sapporo campus, it leverages strong interdisciplinary ties within a comprehensive national university. With about 140 graduate students and around 50 faculty members, the school emphasizes high-quality research, practical skill-building and international accessibility.

Its mission links academic depth with applied relevance, preparing students for roles in government, corporate sectors and academia. Broad campus networks, specialized seminars and cross-disciplinary coursework further strengthen its academic environment and global orientation.

Career‑oriented curricula and strong employer relationships help students transition into roles in government, finance, corporate strategy and nonprofit management. Specialized Course pathways are particularly aligned with practical career development, enabling students to engage with real-world issues through internships, applied projects and practitioner-led classes.

The school’s location in Sapporo offers proximity to major administrative and commercial organizations, supporting continuous interaction with public agencies and private companies. Faculty connections to policy institutes and industry enhance mentoring, while alumni networks provide long-term professional mobility both in Japan and internationally.

The school stands out for combining rigorous research training with practical professional education. Its seminar‑based guidance model gives students direct access to mentors, strengthening both academic output and career development. Interdisciplinary course options across Hokkaido University offer broader perspectives unmatched by smaller institutions.

Students benefit from Sapporo’s strategic role as a regional hub, ensuring access to policy organizations, industry partners and career opportunities. Programs balance theoretical foundations with applicable skills, making the school ideal for those seeking strong preparation in economics, management or public policy within a supportive research environment.

Faculty research spans economics, econometrics, accounting and applied policy studies, engaging with issues central to Hokkaido’s regional economy and Japan’s broader socio‑economic challenges. Strong emphasis on data-driven research and quantitative methods supports innovation across urban economics, economic history and public policy fields.

Interdisciplinary collaboration connects economics with engineering, information science and sustainability studies. Digital transformation initiatives and big‑data competencies enhance student research skills, while partnerships with companies and public institutions translate academic insights into real-world applications and regional impact.

Are programs available in English? Some materials and courses are English-friendly, but many seminars require Japanese; students are encouraged to take intensive language classes for academic and career integration.

Do applicants need a supervisor before applying? Most research-track applicants must secure prior consent from a faculty supervisor, making early communication essential.

What career support exists? Students benefit from university career services, practitioner lectures and local industry links, with specialized programs designed to strengthen professional skills and internship access.

Admissions include General and Special Exams, with eligibility reviews available for applicants with nonstandard academic backgrounds. Master’s applicants usually need a bachelor’s degree, while doctoral candidates require a relevant master’s qualification. International applicants should check current requirements for English or Japanese proficiency and document submission.

Tuition follows national university rates, with scholarships managed through the university’s global office. Housing options include university dormitories and private rentals. Applicants are advised to contact potential supervisors early, prepare required documents in advance and consult updated admissions guides for deadlines and exam schedules.