PhD

Earthquake Engineering

Study mode:On campus Study type:Full-time Languages: English
Foreign:$ 3.72 k / Year(s) Deadline: Nov 30, 2025
301–350 place StudyQA ranking:6903 Duration:5 years

Earthquake Engineering at Tokyo Institute of Technology offers a comprehensive and advanced curriculum designed to prepare students for the complexities of designing resilient structures capable of withstanding seismic forces. This program combines fundamental engineering principles with specialized knowledge in seismology, structural dynamics, foundation engineering, and risk assessment. Students will engage in both theoretical coursework and practical projects, allowing them to develop innovative solutions for earthquake-resistant infrastructure. The program emphasizes not only the static strength of structures but also their dynamic response to seismic activity, ensuring graduates can contribute effectively to earthquake preparedness and damage mitigation. Through this program, students will learn about the latest technologies and methodologies used in seismic analysis, retrofitting of existing buildings, and the development of earthquake-resistant materials. The faculty comprises leading researchers and practitioners in the field, offering insights into current challenges and future directions in earthquake engineering, disaster mitigation, and urban resilience. Facilities include state-of-the-art laboratories for structural testing and seismic simulation, providing hands-on experience essential for professional development. Graduates of this program will be well-equipped to work in engineering consultancy firms, governmental agencies, and international organizations dedicated to disaster risk reduction and infrastructure resilience. This program fosters interdisciplinary collaboration and encourages students to contribute to the global effort of minimizing earthquake-induced damage and saving lives through innovative design and research.

  • Earthquake and Tsunami Disaster Reduction  
  • Basics and Applications of Stochastic Processes  
  • Strong Motion Prediction  
  • Passive Control of Structure against Earthquakes 
  • Advanced Analysis and Design of Structures Considering Material Nonlinearity  
  • Dynamics of Structures  
  • Advanced Analysis and Design of Structures Considering Geometrical & Material Nonlinearities  
  • Theory of Regional Planning Process  
  • City/Transport Planning and the Environment  
  • Remote Sensing and Geoinformatics for Built Environment  
  • Environmental Hazard and Human Behavior  
  • Applied Mathematics for Environmental Study 1A  
  • Applied Mathematics for Environmental Study 1B  
  • Applied Mathematics for Environmental Study 2A  
  • Applied Mathematics for Environmental Study 2B  
  • Applied Environmental Science 1A  
  • Applied Environmental Science 1B  
  • Applied Environmental Science 2A  
  • Applied Environmental Science 2B 
  • International Communication on Environmental Protection Problems I  
  • International Communication on Environmental Protection Problems II  
  • Environmental Impact Assessment I  
  • Environmental Impact Assessment II  
  • Structural and Fire Resistant Design of Building Structures  
  • Earthquake Resistant Limit State Design for Building Structures  
  • Exploration Geophysics 
  • Elastic and Plastic Behaviors of Structural Materials  
  • Introduction to Geochemistry  
  • Geotechnical Earthquake Engineering  
  • Applied Structural Design 
  • Structural Planning in Architecture  
  • Geo-Environmental Engineering  
  • Physical Modelling in Geotechnics  
  • Advanced Mathematical Methods for Infrastructure and Transportation Planning  
  • Transportation Network Analysis  
  • Transportation Economics  
  • Stability Problems in Geotechnical Engineering  
  • Mechanics of Geomaterials  
  • Coastal Disaster Mitigation 
  • Advanced Concrete Technology  
  • Mechanics of Structural Concrete  
  • Utilization of Resources and Wastes for Environment  
  • Maintenance of Infrastructure  
  • Fracture Control Design of Steel Structures  
  • Introduction to Solid Mechanics  
  • Advanced Course on Elasticity Theory  
  • Principles of Construction Management  
  • Probabilistic Concepts in Engineering Design  
  • Civil Engineering Analysis  
  • Advanced Topics in Civil Engineering I  
  • Advanced Topics in Civil Engineering II  
  • Advanced Technical Communication Skills: ATC I  
  • Advanced Technical Communication Skills: ATC II  
  • International Collaboration I  
  • International Collaboration II  
  • International Internship I  
  • International Internship II  
  • Analysis of Vibration and Elastic Wave 
  • Theory & Applications of Urban Spatial Data 
  • Intellectual Infrastructure Systems  
  • Off-Campus Project in Architecture and Building Engineering I-II (0-0-4) 
  • Civil Engineering Off-Campus Project I or II (0-4-0)  
  • Internship in Urban Seismic Engineering I, II (0-0-2) 
  • Mechanical and Environmental Informatics International Off-Campus Project A, B (0-1-2) 
  • Built Environment Laboratory I – IV (0-0-1) 
  • Experiment on Steel Structures I-IV (0-0-1)  
  • Mechanical and Environmental Informatics Project I (0-1-2) 
  • Mechanical and Environmental Informatics Project II (0-1-1)  
  • Seminar in Built Environment I –IV (0-1-0) 
  • Seminar in Environmental Science Technology, and Engineering I-IV (0-2-0) 
  • Seminar in Architecture and Building Engineering I-IV (0-2-0) 
  • Seminar of Civil Engineering I – IV (0-2-0) 
  • Seminar in Mechanical and Environmental Informatics I – IV (0-1-0) 
  • Seminar in Built Environment V – X (0-2-0) 
  • Seminar in Environmental Science Technology, and Engineering V – X (0-2-0) 
  • Seminar in Architecture and Building Engineering V – X (0-2-0) 
  • Seminar of Civil Engineering V – X (0-2-0) 
  • Seminar in Mechanical and Environmental Informatics V – X (0-2-0) 

The Earthquake Engineering program at the Tokyo Institute of Technology is designed to provide students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills related to the prevention, assessment, and mitigation of earthquake-related hazards. The curriculum emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, integrating principles of civil engineering, seismology, structural engineering, and geotechnical engineering to prepare graduates for challenges associated with seismic activities. Students are required to undertake foundational courses in mathematics, physics, and mechanics during the initial stages of their study to establish a solid understanding of physical phenomena and analytical methods. Advanced coursework focuses on seismic risk analysis, earthquake-resistant design, structural dynamics, and innovative mitigation strategies, enabling students to develop solutions that improve the resilience of infrastructure. The program also includes laboratory experiments, computational modeling, and site investigation practices to enhance practical skills. To graduate, students must complete a combination of lecture and project coursework, pass written examinations, and undertake a research thesis under faculty supervision. Emphasis is placed on fostering research capability and encouraging participation in national and international seismic projects. English-taught courses facilitate international collaboration, and students are encouraged to engage with ongoing research initiatives and industry partnerships. Interdisciplinary teamwork and critical thinking are core components of the program, ensuring that graduates are equipped to address complex earthquake-related engineering problems effectively. The program aims to produce professionals who can contribute to safer urban environments through innovative engineering solutions and advance the field of earthquake resilience.


Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

  • ✔️ Flexible study schedule
  • ✔️ Experienced teachers
  • ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

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Scholarships

MEXT Scholarship

The top ten applicants who have applied under Eligibility (A) will be awarded the MEXT scholarship for four years.

  • Students who have been accepted for a MEXT Scholarship will not be required to pay the application, admission, or tuition fees.
  • The MEXT scholarship provides a monthly stipend of JPY 120,000 for undergraduate students. The amount of the stipend is subject to change in accordance with the directives of the MEXT scholarship program.
  • In accordance with MEXT regulations, students will be provided with an economy class air ticket from the international airport closest to their place of residence in their country of nationality to Narita or Haneda International Airport.

NOTE:The applicant will be required to withdraw from the MEXT scholarship if he/she is applying for other MEXT scholarships or a scholarship offered by the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO).

Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO)

Applicants who have applied under Eligibility (A) who will enroll in Tokyo Tech under a scholarship other than those offered by MEXT, and applicants who have applied under Eligibility (B) who do not reside in Japan may apply for a Monbukagakusho Honors Scholarship for Privately Financed International Students awarded by JASSO.
Please note that individuals who have been granted the above scholarship cannot apply to receive other scholarships at the same time.

The monthly stipend is JPY 48,000, which is subject to change in accordance with JASSO's directives. This scholarship will be offered from April 2017 to March 2018. But still, applicants will be required to pay the application, admission, and tuition fees even when they are accepted to this scholarship.

The Earthquake Engineering program at the Tokyo Institute of Technology offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to address the critical challenges posed by seismic activities and to develop resilient infrastructure. This graduate program emphasizes advanced studies in seismic risk assessment, structural dynamics, earthquake-resistant design, and the development of innovative materials and construction techniques. Students are encouraged to engage in cutting-edge research projects that contribute to the understanding of earthquake phenomena and the mitigation of earthquake damage. The program integrates theoretical knowledge with practical applications, often involving collaboration with industry partners and participation in field investigations to analyze real-world seismic events. Facilities at the university include state-of-the-art laboratories equipped for dynamic testing and modeling, enabling students to carry out experiments and simulations that are essential for mastering earthquake engineering principles. The faculty comprises leading experts in seismology, structural engineering, and disaster management, providing mentorship and fostering an environment of academic excellence. Graduates of this program are well-prepared to work in sectors such as civil engineering, government agencies, research institutions, and international organizations focused on disaster mitigation and resilient urban development. The Tokyo Institute of Technology’s Earthquake Engineering program aims to contribute to global efforts in reducing earthquake vulnerability and to support the development of safer communities through innovative engineering solutions.

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