Keio University - Keio Business School (KBS)

Keio Business School stands as Japan’s pioneering business school, founded in 1962 within Keio University’s long academic tradition. Grounded in Fukuzawa’s principles of self-respect and pragmatic thinking, KBS focuses on cultivating leaders capable of creating original business concepts for a rapidly globalizing economy. Its approach blends Japanese business insight with international perspectives.

The school’s T-shaped development model integrates broad management foundations with deep specialization, shaping professionals ready for complex decision-making. With strong research culture, AACSB accreditation, and global recognition, KBS positions itself as a hub for forward-thinking education that inspires innovation and societal impact.

KBS graduates benefit from a powerful ecosystem that connects students to opportunities in consulting, finance, operations, and executive management. A strong alumni base of more than 3,500 MBA and PhD graduates and thousands of executive education participants supports mentorship, career mobility, and international engagement.

Close ties with Japanese corporations and global partners strengthen internship and recruitment pipelines, offering students access to established firms and emerging ventures. Career services emphasize practical readiness, while the school’s reputation for Japan-specific expertise equips graduates to contribute effectively to multinational contexts and entrepreneurial pathways.

KBS appeals to ambitious learners seeking rigorous training rooted in Japanese management philosophy and global relevance. Its status as Japan’s first business school and Eduniversal’s top-ranked institution in the country underscores its longstanding influence and academic credibility.

The curriculum emphasizes case-method learning, specialized electives, and research depth, supported by faculty with strong industry ties. International collaborations and a robust alumni network expand opportunities for global exposure. Students value the blend of affordability, strategic location, and a mission that promotes ethical leadership and original thinking.

KBS advances management knowledge through research in strategy, innovation, technology, and network economies. Faculty contribute to global forums and industry dialogue, reinforcing the school’s influence across academic and corporate communities. Programs integrate themes of sustainability and digital transformation to prepare leaders for evolving business landscapes.

Entrepreneurship is supported through courses on venture creation, innovation processes, and investment strategy, helping students translate ideas into actionable business models. With thousands of graduates shaping industries in Japan and abroad, KBS sustains a legacy of fostering leaders who drive organizational reform and societal progress.

Is Japanese proficiency required? Most courses are conducted in Japanese, so strong language ability is expected, though select English electives exist.

What is unique about the MBA’s second year? Students dedicate several months to a supervised thesis, building analytical and managerial competencies.

How does KBS support career changers or entrepreneurs? Specialized courses, alumni connections, and corporate partnerships provide guidance for pivoting careers or launching ventures.

The MBA seeks motivated early-career candidates with a bachelor’s degree, application essays, recommendations, and strong Japanese proficiency. The EMBA targets professionals with significant work experience, while the PhD emphasizes research potential through proposals and examinations.

Tuition varies by program, with scholarships available through Keio and external sources. Students can access dormitories or nearby housing, and international applicants receive support for visas and orientation. Living in Yokohama offers convenience and cultural immersion, helping students balance academic demands with a comfortable lifestyle.