Special Training Program for Veterinary Researchers

The Special Training Program for Veterinary Researchers at Hokkaido University is a comprehensive postgraduate course designed to cultivate highly skilled professionals in the field of veterinary science and animal health. This program aims to develop researchers who are capable of addressing complex challenges related to animal diseases, zoonoses, and public health, through advanced education, rigorous training, and innovative research activities. The curriculum integrates a broad spectrum of disciplines including microbiology, pathology, pharmacology, and animal genetics, providing students with a multidisciplinary perspective essential for tackling contemporary issues in veterinary medicine.

Participants in the program engage in both theoretical coursework and hands-on laboratory and fieldwork experiences, fostering practical skills alongside academic knowledge. The program emphasizes research methodology, data analysis, and scientific communication, preparing students for careers in academia, government agencies, private industry, and international organizations. Special emphasis is placed on fostering international collaboration and exchange, allowing students to participate in joint projects, seminars, and conferences with leading researchers worldwide.

Graduates of the program will be equipped with the critical thinking, technical expertise, and scientific leadership necessary to contribute to advancements in veterinary health and disease prevention. The program also encourages innovation and entrepreneurship, supporting students in developing new strategies and solutions for global animal health challenges. With access to state-of-the-art laboratories, resources, and expert faculty members, students are provided with an ideal environment to pursue cutting-edge research and professional growth.

By the end of the program, students will have produced a substantial research thesis, demonstrating their capability to independently carry out significant scientific investigations. They will join a network of distinguished alumni and professionals dedicated to improving animal and human health worldwide. The Special Training Program for Veterinary Researchers at Hokkaido University is committed to fostering the next generation of veterinary science leaders through intensive training, international cooperation, and a strong emphasis on scientific excellence.

1. Almost all the lectures, research works and thesis writing will be conducted in English. As an optional, Japanese-language training is also provided for students for their adaptation of Japanese society and better understanding for Japanese culture especially on their unique disciplines.
2. Students will be expected to write a thesis based on their own research results conducted during the course and to submit this thesis to multiple examiners (one principal supervisor and three or more adjunct supervisors) in this special program on Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine/Graduate School of Infectious Diseases, Hokkaido University for evaluation. Doctoral degree equivalent Ph. D. (Veterinary Medicine)/Ph. D. (Infectious Diseases) will be awarded if he/she has completed their course works with satisfactory academic performance and essential requirements. Submitted thesis will be evaluated its contents and quality by the examiners through their inspection and oral defense by applicants before approval. Submission of a doctoral thesis is allowed only after the student has published two scientific papers as a first author in peer-reviewed international scientific journals in fields of interests.
3. Students must finish their thesis within four years starting from October, 2017.

1. Checklist for The International Priority Graduate Programs (PGP)
2. Application form: format "A"
3. Japanese Government Scholarship form: format "B " (Two sided printing is required)
4. Research proposal: format "C" (Two sided printing is required)
5. Medical certificate officially issued by medical professionals in the latest six months before submission in format "D"
6. Certified photocopy of Bachelor's and/or Master's degree, certificate, or original copy of the graduation certificate letter from the university in which indicates or promising the expected graduation date
7. All past official academic transcripts for undergraduate and/or postgraduate studies in the university
8. English proficiency: Submit a certification of national English proficiency test taken such as TOEFL (highly recommended), or a certificate issued by an English teaching staff of university from which you graduated using format "E". Applicants who are from native English spoken countries or countries using English as official language are not required to be certified.
9. Certificate of citizenship or proof of residence in the applicant's home country, i.e., a copy of family register, passport, or other positive proof of citizenship
10. Two letters of recommendation to the President of Hokkaido University (Prof. Dr. Keizo Yamaguchi), one by the Dean or Head of the institution/employing body, the other by the applicant's supervising professor, or other teaching staff who could certify the applicant’s ability, or from a supervisor in the employing body who has knowledge of the applicant.
11. Two photos (3 x 2.5 and 4 x 3.5 cm) taken in last six months, upper front figure of the applicant without a hat/cap should be supplied in an envelope. On the reverse side of each photo, name and nationality of the applicants should be indicated.
12. Summary of Bachelor’s and/or Master’s thesis, consisting of less than 2,000 words, should be submitted if applicable. ＊Entrance examination fee will be exempted.

The Special Training Program for Veterinary Researchers at Hokkaido University offers a range of financing options to support prospective students in their academic and research pursuits. Funding opportunities primarily include scholarships, assistantships, and various financial aid programs designed to reduce the financial burden on students and enable them to focus fully on their research activities.

Hokkaido University provides scholarships specifically tailored for international students enrolled in this specialized training program. These scholarships are offered by the Japanese government, such as MEXT scholarships, which cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other allowances. In addition to government-funded scholarships, the university itself offers its own financial aid programs, including research scholarships for outstanding students and those demonstrating significant financial need.

Assistantships are another form of support provided by the university, whereby qualified students can take on teaching or research assistant roles. These positions not only offer stipends to assist with living costs but also provide valuable professional experience in the field of veterinary research. The university encourages students to apply for these assistantships to enhance both their academic development and financial stability during their studies.

Moreover, students have access to various external funding opportunities, including grants from international organizations, foundations, and research institutions aligned with veterinary sciences. The university's Office of Financial Aid and International Student Support offers guidance and assistance in applying for these grants and scholarships.

Although specific details regarding the total amount of funding available or the number of scholarships offered each year are not publicly detailed, the university emphasizes a strong commitment to supporting talented students financially. The program’s structure facilitates a comprehensive approach to funding, combining university resources, government support, and external grants to ensure that students can pursue their research without undue financial hardship.

In summary, the financing studies of the Special Training Program for Veterinary Researchers at Hokkaido University encompass a diversified portfolio of scholarships, assistantships, and external funding sources. These financial supports are aimed at attracting high-caliber students from around the world and fostering an environment conducive to advanced veterinary research. The university continually strives to expand its financial aid offerings, making the program accessible to a broad spectrum of talented researchers committed to advancing veterinary science.

The Special Training Program for Veterinary Researchers at Hokkaido University is designed to cultivate highly skilled professionals in the field of veterinary medicine and related biomedical sciences. This program aims to provide advanced training and research opportunities that enhance the competency of students to contribute significantly to veterinary sciences, animal health, and biomedical research. The curriculum is structured to include comprehensive coursework, laboratory research, and field studies to ensure students acquire both theoretical knowledge and practical expertise. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, integrating veterinary medicine with molecular biology, genetics, pathology, and other biomedical disciplines, thereby preparing students for a broad spectrum of careers within academia, industry, and government sectors. Students engage in cutting-edge research projects under the mentorship of experienced faculty members renowned for their contributions to veterinary and biomedical sciences. The program promotes international collaboration, encouraging students to participate in joint research initiatives and exchange programs, which broaden their academic and cultural perspectives. Additionally, the program emphasizes ethical standards and the importance of global health issues, aligning with contemporary needs in veterinary public health. Graduates of this specialized training are expected to play pivotal roles in advancing veterinary research, improving animal and human health, and addressing emerging infectious diseases. The program benefits from Hokkaido University’s extensive research facilities and resources, providing an environment conducive to innovative scientific discovery. While exact details about the curriculum and entry requirements are available through official university channels, the overall goal remains to produce highly competent veterinary researchers equipped to meet global challenges in animal and human health.