Urban and Regional Development

Urban and Regional Development at Kyoto University is a comprehensive graduate program dedicated to understanding, designing, and managing sustainable urban and regional environments. This multidisciplinary program aims to equip students with advanced knowledge and practical skills necessary to address the complex challenges faced by modern cities and regions worldwide, including spatial planning, infrastructure development, environmental sustainability, social equity, and economic growth. Students will explore theoretical frameworks alongside real-world applications, fostering a holistic perspective on urban systems and regional dynamics. The curriculum includes courses in urban planning, land use, transportation systems, environmental management, disaster risk reduction, and policy development, all delivered by faculty members renowned for their expertise in urban studies, infrastructure, and sustainable development. The program encourages active research and fieldwork, enabling students to analyze current issues, develop innovative solutions, and contribute to regional development efforts that promote resilience and quality of life. Collaboration with government agencies, private sector partners, and international organizations provides students with valuable practical experience and networking opportunities. Graduates of the program are prepared to pursue careers in urban planning, policy analysis, environmental consultancy, and regional development, working for governmental bodies, research institutes, or private companies. Emphasizing a global perspective, the program also offers opportunities for international exchange and joint research projects, fostering a deep understanding of different urbanization challenges across diverse cultural and environmental contexts. Through rigorous academic training combined with practical engagement, Kyoto University’s Urban and Regional Development program aims to cultivate experts who can drive sustainable and inclusive growth in cities and regions, contributing positively to society and the environment.

Common Subject

• Applicants must have non-Japanese citizenship and hold the residence status of “College Student” at the time of admission, and satisfy any of the following requirements (or will satisfy any of the following requirements by the end of March 2017).
• Must have graduated, or be expected to graduate from a Japanese university (excluding Undergraduate School of Global Engineering, Kyoto University) by March 31, 2017
• Must have completed, or be expected to complete 16 years of school education by March 31, 2017
• Must have completed 15 years of school education in a foreign country and must be recognized by the Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University as having earned specified credits with excellent grades
• Must be qualified by means of an individual entrance examination by the Graduate School of Engineering of Kyoto University, must be judged to have academic ability equivalent or superior to a university graduate, and must be at least 22 years of age by March 31, 2017
• Certificate of Graduation (or Expected Graduation) and Transcript of Academic Record
• Curriculum Sheet
• Application Fee ¥ 10,000, Admission Fee ¥ 282,000, Tuition ¥535,800 /year

Financing studies for the Urban and Regional Development program at Kyoto University are primarily supported through a combination of national and institutional scholarships, external funding opportunities, and tuition fee policies. Graduate students enrolled in this program have access to a variety of scholarship options designed to assist with living expenses and tuition costs. The Japanese government offers the Monbukagakusho (MEXT) Scholarship, which provides full or partial support to international students pursuing advanced degrees, including those in urban and regional development. This scholarship covers tuition fees, provides a monthly stipend, and includes experimental research fund support, ensuring students can focus on their studies and research activities without financial hardship.

Kyoto University also offers its own financial aid programs, such as merit-based scholarships for outstanding students and need-based support for those demonstrating financial need. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, research potential, and contribution to the university community. The university encourages students to apply for external funding sources, including grants from international organizations, governmental agencies, and private foundations focused on urban development, sustainability, or regional planning. Many students secure research grants or fellowships to support specific projects, international conference participation, or collaborative research initiatives.

Tuition fees for the program are in line with Kyoto University standards and are payable annually. Scholarships and financial aid can substantially reduce or fully cover these costs, depending on eligibility and the specific funding program. Additionally, students have access to on-campus employment opportunities, such as research assistantships and teaching assistantships, which provide supplementary income while gaining professional experience relevant to their field.

Overall, the financing landscape for students in the Urban and Regional Development program is well-established, with multiple avenues to support their academic pursuits and research activities. The university’s comprehensive financial aid systems, combined with external funding opportunities, enable students from diverse backgrounds to engage in advanced studies and contribute meaningfully to the field of urban and regional planning.

Urban and Regional Development at Kyoto University offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complexities of urbanization and regional planning. This program aims to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to address modern challenges such as sustainable development, urban decay, infrastructure management, transportation systems, environmental impact, and social equity. Through a combination of theoretical and practical learning, students are encouraged to analyze spatial patterns, develop innovative planning solutions, and implement policies that promote balanced regional growth and improved quality of life for residents. The curriculum typically includes courses in urban theory, geographic information systems (GIS), urban economics, environmental planning, and public policy. Students may also engage in fieldwork, research projects, and collaborations with governmental agencies or private sector organizations to gain real-world experience. Kyoto University's emphasis on integrating local case studies with global perspectives helps students understand the interconnectedness of urban and regional issues worldwide. Graduates of the program are prepared for careers in urban planning agencies, government departments, research institutions, consulting firms, and non-governmental organizations dedicated to sustainable development and regional revitalization. The program benefits from Kyoto University's strong academic reputation, extensive research facilities, and its strategic location, allowing students to study historic urban environments while engaging with contemporary challenges. To support diversity and internationalization, the program welcomes students from around the world and offers courses in English alongside Japanese language instruction. Overall, Kyoto University's Urban and Regional Development program fosters innovative thinking, professional expertise, and a global perspective necessary to shape sustainable cities and resilient regions in the 21st century.