Sustainable Architecture and Urban Systems

The Master's Program in Sustainable Architecture and Urban Systems at Kyushu University offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education designed to address the complex challenges of sustainable development in urban environments. This program aims to cultivate professionals who are capable of designing and managing sustainable, resilient, and efficient built environments that harmonize with natural ecosystems. Students will explore cutting-edge theories and practical approaches in architectural design, urban planning, environmental engineering, and policymakers’ strategies, emphasizing the integration of renewable energy, resource-efficient technologies, and eco-friendly materials. The curriculum emphasizes innovative solutions for urbanization issues such as climate change, energy consumption, waste management, and social inclusivity. Through a combination of theoretical coursework, practical projects, and fieldwork, students develop critical thinking, research skills, and hands-on experience in designing sustainable buildings and urban systems. The program encourages collaboration across disciplines and with local communities to foster a holistic understanding of sustainability challenges and opportunities. Graduates will be equipped to work in academia, industry, government agencies, and non-profit organizations, contributing to the development of sustainable cities and towns both within Japan and globally. Emphasizing global perspectives and local applicability, this program prepares students to become leaders in creating innovative solutions that promote environmental stewardship, economic viability, and social equity in urban development.

• Bachelor's degree
• Two letters of recommendation
• Submit an official graduation certificate issued by the last university attended. Photocopies with an official seal or imprint are acceptable.
• Submit official academic transcripts from all universities or equivalent institutions attended. Photocopies with an official seal or imprint are acceptable.
• Submit test results or other relevant documents (TOEFL [P, C, I], TOEIC, IELTS, CAMBRIDGE). Photocopies are acceptable. These tests should not have been taken more than two years before the time of application. 
• Applicants must pay a 30,000-yen application fee 

Finance for the Sustainable Architecture and Urban Systems program at Kyushu University is structured to support students through a combination of scholarships, fellowships, and financial aid options. The university offers a range of merit-based and need-based scholarships specifically designed for international and local students enrolled in advanced degree programs. These scholarships aim to alleviate financial burdens and enable students to focus on their research and academic pursuits without undue concern over expenses.

For international students, Kyushu University provides several scholarship programs, including the Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarships, which cover tuition fees, a monthly stipend, and travel costs. Additionally, the university has its own scholarship schemes such as the Kyushu University Conference and the Kyushu University International Student Scholarship, both geared towards supporting students financially throughout their studies. These scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence, research potential, or financial need, and often require separate applications.

Apart from institutional funding, many students seek external funding sources, including governmental, non-profit, and private sector grants that support sustainable development and architectural research. These external grants can provide supplementary funding for specific research projects or conference participation.

Kyushu University also encourages students to apply for research assistantships and teaching assistantships, which provide financial compensation in exchange for supporting faculty research activities or teaching responsibilities. These roles not only provide income but also valuable experience in academic and research environments.

Loans are also available to students who qualify, with flexible repayment options post-graduation. The university’s financial aid office provides guidance and counseling to help students identify suitable funding opportunities, apply successfully, and manage their finances throughout their studies.

In conclusion, the financing studies component of the Sustainable Architecture and Urban Systems program emphasizes a diverse portfolio of financial support mechanisms. These include scholarships, grants, assistantships, and loans designed to make the program accessible to talented students regardless of their economic background and to promote research, innovation, and sustainable development in architecture and urban planning fields.

The Sustainable Architecture and Urban Systems program at Kyushu University is an interdisciplinary graduate course designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and practical skills necessary to address the complex challenges of urban sustainability and environmentally responsible architecture. The program emphasizes the integration of sustainable design principles with cutting-edge urban planning practices, encouraging students to develop innovative solutions for eco-friendly urban development, energy efficiency, resource management, and resilient infrastructure. It aims to foster a comprehensive understanding of the social, economic, and environmental aspects of sustainable urban systems, preparing graduates to contribute effectively to the development of sustainable cities worldwide. The curriculum covers various topics, including green building design, renewable energy integration, urban ecological systems, and smart city technologies. Students have opportunities to engage in research projects, collaborate with industry partners, and participate in fieldwork to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts. The program also promotes international perspectives and intercultural exchange, attracting students from diverse backgrounds who are committed to advancing sustainable urban futures. Graduates of the program are expected to pursue careers in architecture firms, urban planning agencies, environmental consultancy companies, government agencies, or continue academic research. Kyushu University provides a multidisciplinary environment supported by renowned faculty members and state-of-the-art facilities, fostering innovation and leadership in sustainable architecture and urban systems. The program's location in Japan offers unique insights into disaster-resistant construction practices and urban resilience, given the country's experience with earthquakes and typhoons. Overall, the Sustainable Architecture and Urban Systems program aims to cultivate environmentally conscious architects and planners capable of designing sustainable and adaptive urban environments in response to global environmental challenges.