Waseda University

In the midst of the rapid globalization that marks the contemporary world, the presence of the Asia-Pacific region is becoming more significant than ever in the fields of international politics, economy, society and culture. The mission of the Graduate School of Asia-Pacific Studies(GSAPS) is based on two principles: 1) To pursue academic research that balances global and regional perspectives in addressing the range of historical, political, economic, business management, industrial, social, and cultural issues arising among and across the nations of the Asia-Pacific region; and 2) To cultivate future professionals who are experts in their fields and who can apply their advanced training and knowledge to contribute broadly to improving the living standards and social conditions of individuals around the world.

Solving the various issues emerging out of the contemporary global society requires acquiring historical and cultural understandings of the region combined with analytical tools from the disciplines of international relations, policy studies, and international development. To this end, GSAPS is one of the few educational institutions in the world that offers an interdisciplinary International Relations program which trains students in three specializations: Area Studies, International Relations, and International Development/Policy Studies. Faculty and students come from diverse backgrounds, and as part of the vibrant GSAPS community students are able to experience a microcosm of the global society as they pursue a range of curricular and research activities.