The University of Tokyo

Program Overview

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Program Overview

The UTokyo Global Unit Courses (UTokyo GUC) is a short-term, intensive summer program organized by the Center for Global Education at the University of Tokyo.
Designed primarily for university students worldwide, UTokyo GUC offers a unique opportunity to study at Japan’s leading academic institution.

All courses are taught by the University of Tokyo professors and are conducted entirely in English.
The program spans approximately six weeks, from mid-June to late July, and is divided into three terms, each lasting two weeks.
Students can choose to apply for one or more courses across different terms, provided the schedules do not overlap.

The program's small class sizes, typically around 20 students, allow for a personalized and engaging learning experience.
Enrollment in each course is selective, with participants chosen through a screening process to maintain high academic standards.

Upon successful completion of their courses, students will receive a Global Unit Certificate for each course, which includes a grade and the number of Global Units earned.
These units may be eligible for transfer as credits, depending on the policies of the student’s home institution.

Key Features

High Academic Standards
All courses in the UTokyo GUC are taught by leading scholars of the University of Tokyo.
Small class sizes, typically around 20 students, foster interactive discussions and provide opportunities for closer student-professor engagement.

Diverse Course Offerings
UTokyo GUC offers a broad range of courses across various disciplines, from the humanities to STEM.
These include, depending on the course, lectures, design workshops, lab tours, research activities, campus visits, fieldwork, and more, each ensuring a rich and well-rounded academic experience.
Additionally, UTokyo students will serve as teaching assistants, offering further support and engagement in class.

Flexible Learning Opportunities
Students have the flexibility to select multiple courses across different terms, tailoring their schedules to best fit their interests and academic goals.

Experience Life in Tokyo
Study at the University of Tokyo’s exciting campuses, with access to outstanding facilities such as libraries and study spaces.
The two campuses—Hongo and Komaba—are centrally located, close to some of the most famous cultural and commercial districts of Tokyo.
Students are required to arrange their own accommodations, allowing them to choose options that suit their individual needs.

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Program Schedule

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UTokyo GUC 2025 Program Schedule

Information Available	Early January
Application Period	February 3 – at 16:00 (Japan Standard Time), Friday, March 14
Screening Results Announcement	Thursday, April 17　_{For the screening results, please refer to the "Application" section below.}
Payment Deadline	Thursday, April 17 – at 16:00 (Japan Standard Time), Thursday, April 24
Program Period	Monday, June 16 – Monday, July 28
Issuance of Global Unit Certificates	Late September

UTokyo GUC 2025 Course Offerings

UTokyo GUC 2025 | Timetable - Updated on 2025.01.30

Term 1:

Course Code	Campus	Course Title	Instructor	Number of sessions (1session=90min)	Global Units
GUC25S1111C	Hongo	Group Theory and Its Applications	Yukari ITO	10	1 (In-person)
GUC25S1131C	Komaba	Sustainable Air Transport Systems	Eri ITOH	10	1 (In-person)
GUC25S1132C	Hongo	Our Universe	Jia LIU	10	1 (In-person)
GUC25S1133C	Komaba	Design for Social Impact: Creating Ideas for Ecosystem Flourishing	Miles PENNINGTON Yasuaki KAKEHI Mariko HIGAKI	20	2 (In-person)
GUC25S1151C	Komaba	Tissue Engineering and Stem Cell Technologies for Neuroscience	Yoshiho IKEUCHI	10	1 (In-person)
GUC25S1221C	Hongo	International Security of the Asia-Pacific	Yee Kuang HENG	10	1 (In-person)
GUC25S1232C	Hongo	Culture, Media and Society in Japan	Yuiko FUJITA	10	1 (In-person)

Term 2:

Course Code	Campus	Course Title	Instructor	Number of sessions (1session=90min)	Global Units
GUC25S2121C	Hongo	Early Language Acquisition: How Human Infants Learn Language Within Their Social Environment	Sho TSUJI	10	1 (In-person)
GUC25S2123C	Hongo	Introduction to School Education in Japan	Sam BAMKIN	10	1 (In-person)
GUC25S2131C	Hongo	AI for Understanding Human Intelligence	Yukie NAGAI	20	2 (In-person)
GUC25S2132C	Hongo	AI and Social Justice	Yuko ITATSU	10	1 (In-person)
GUC25S2142C	Hongo	A History and Culture of the Senses	Ai HISANO	10	1 (In-person)

Term 3:

Course Code	Campus	Course Title	Instructor	Number of sessions (1session=90min)	Global Units
GUC25S3113C	Field Trip	Field Trip with Professor Yoshiyuki Kawazoe on Urban Design in Tokyo	Yoshiyuki KAWAZOE	10	1 (In-person)
GUC25S3122C	Hongo	Modern Japanese History	Michael FACIUS	10	1 (In-person)
GUC25S3131C	Hongo	Governance for Sustainable Development	Naomi AOKI	10	1 (In-person)
GUC25S3132C	Hongo	Making Robots Expressive	Gentiane VENTURE	10	1 (In-person)
GUC25S3142L	Online	Resource Management, Efficiency and Social Justice: Both Perspectives from Economics and Sociology	Hiroe ISHIHARA	5	0.5 (Online)
GUC25S3151C	Hongo	Dilemmas of Development in Asia	Jin SATO	10	1 (In-person)
GUC25S3211C	Hongo	An Introduction to Quantum Biology	Jonathan WOODWARD	10	1 (In-person)
GUC25S3233C	Hongo	Heritage Studies in Japan	Akira MATSUDA	10	1 (In-person)
GUC25S3242C	Hongo	Law in Transnational East Asia	Kentaro MATSUBARA	10	1 (In-person)

Japanese Language Courses:

Course Code	Term	Course Title	Instructor	Number of sessions (1session=90min)	Global Units
GUC25S111JL	Term 1	Survival Japanese (Beginner Level) [Term 1]	Center for Japanese Language Education	5	0.5 (Online)
GUC25S112JL	Term 1	Level 5 Further Steps (Advanced Level)	Center for Japanese Language Education	5	0.5 (Online)
GUC25S121JL	Term 1	Level 4 Further Steps (Upper Intermediate Level)	Center for Japanese Language Education	5	0.5 (Online)
GUC25S211JL	Term 2	Level 3 Further Steps (Lower Intermediate Level)	Center for Japanese Language Education	5	0.5 (Online)
GUC25S221JL	Term 2	Level 2 Further Steps (Upper Elementary Level)	Center for Japanese Language Education	5	0.5 (Online)
GUC25S311JL	Term 3	Survival Japanese (Beginner Level) [Term 3]	Center for Japanese Language Education	5	0.5 (Online)
GUC25S312JL	Term 3	Level 1 Further Steps (Lower Elementary Level)	Center for Japanese Language Education	5	0.5 (Online)

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Messages from the Instructors / Syllabus

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Term 1 Courses:

Group Theory and Its Applications (In-person course) Syllabus I am a Professor at the Kavli Institute for the Physics and Mathematics of the Universe, specializing in algebraic geometry. A group is a mathematical concept used to describe symmetry in various fields such as mathematics, physics, and chemistry. It also plays a role in the arts. In this course, we will explore fundamental concepts of group theory and examine their properties through exercises. Additionally, we'll conclude by applying group theory to some Japanese art and we will also create your own artwork. While this is a foundational mathematics course, a basic understanding of linear algebra is recommended. If we have enough time, we will try Ikebana and experience dimensions in the real world.	Prof. Yukari ITO
Sustainable Air Transport Systems (In-person course on Komaba) Syllabus Air Transport System is an essential component of aircraft operations and a critically important academic and research field. In the future, the demand for air transportation is expected to increase, and various forms of operations, such as space shuttles, are also anticipated to become involved. At the same time, it is still a relatively new field globally, and this course has been designed to provide a comprehensive foundation of knowledge. The course is structured with the aim of accommodating students from various specialized fields. We welcome students with an interest in air traffic management, air transportation, supply chains, and related areas.	Prof. Eri ITOH
Our Universe (In-person course) Syllabus I am a computational and observational cosmologist. My research focuses on the large-scale structures of our universe, utilizing cosmological observations of the cosmic microwave background and galaxies, combined with state-of-the-art numerical simulations. Through this course, we will explore the history of our universe and its components. We will also practice using the tools scientists employ to study the cosmos. Emphasis will be placed on developing essential skills for scientific research—problem-solving, critical thinking, and computational analysis.	Assoc. Prof. Jia LIU
Design for Social Impact: Creating Ideas for Ecosystem Flourishing (In-person course on Komaba) Syllabus This is an introduction to the design process. It is a series of lectures and workshops where participants can try the basics of design from research, creating ideas through to material experimentation, prototyping and review. We approach this from the perspective of innovation and future thinking - so the emphasis is on new ideas (and not just form-making - as in a more traditional design class). The theme is new futures for ecosystem flourishing – teams will be creating ideas for new types of experimental products or services that are related to sustainable and resilient futures.	Prof. Miles PENNINGTON Prof. Yasuaki KAKEHI Assoc. Prof. Mariko HIGAKI
Tissue Engineering and Stem Cell Technologies for Neuroscience (In-person course on Komaba) Syllabus Can we build a brain-like tissue in the near future? This introductory course invites you to explore the exciting realm of tissue engineering and stem cell technologies in neuroscience, tailored for students at the early stages of their scientific training. We will delve into the fundamentals of neural tissue engineering and stem cell biology, uncovering how these disciplines converge to advance our understanding of the brain. Engaging lectures and interactive discussions will guide you through the latest research, bioengineering strategies, and ethical considerations in neuroengineering. This course offers a unique glimpse into the potential future of neuroscience, making it an ideal starting point for students keen on exploring the frontiers of brain science and regenerative medicine.	Prof. Yoshiho IKEUCHI
International Security of the Asia-Pacific (In-person course) Syllabus Japan’s 2022 National Security Strategy warned that the country is at a “historical inflection point and in the face of the most severe and complex security environment since the end of WWII”. How can we understand regional security challenges that range from war, “de-risking” and great power competition, to climate change, infectious diseases, and terrorism? This course will analyze key drivers that shape the complex security agenda confronting Japan and Asia, through a combination of theory and practical cases. Each session will encourage interactive student-designed class exercises combined with group discussions and lectures. This course draws from the instructor’s experience teaching international security over twenty years at universities in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Singapore, and Japan. I look forward to vibrant discussions with GUC students on how we can best make sense of an increasingly uncertain and dangerous world.	Prof. Yee Kuang HENG
Culture, Media and Society in Japan (In-person course) Syllabus My field of expertise is media, communications, and fieldwork. In Japan, we can observe many fascinating social and cultural phenomena. Some of these may be considered “unique,” while others exhibit patterns similar to those in other countries. It is intriguing to visit these sites, observe, and analyze them. This course offers an in-depth exploration of Japanese society, high culture, popular culture, and media within the context of global social dynamics. To reinforce classroom learning, field trips are scheduled for each major topic.	Assoc. Prof. Yuiko FUJITA

Term 2 Courses:

Early Language Acquisition: How Human Infants Learn Language Within Their Social Environment (In-person course) Syllabus Children learn language all around the world, no matter what linguistic or cultural background they are born into. In this course, we will tackle questions such as: Do babies really learn in the womb? Why is it so hard for speakers from some languages to distinguish sounds like “l” and “r”? How should we talk to bilingual children? We will also learn about early language impairments, the central role of the social environment for learning, and what lessons artificial intelligence can draw from baby studies. Understanding the mechanisms behind their learning is of high societal relevance, since early language skills are the single best predictor for later academic success. In my lab, drawing on observational, experimental, and interventional methods, we focus on the role of the linguistic environment and social context for advancing learning.	Affiliated Faculty Sho TSUJI
Introduction to School Education in Japan (In-person course) Syllabus Japan’s schools are expected to universally achieve various objectives. They should reflect society and raise citizens for society; have high quality and respond to each child’s individuality. How does such a vast system work? And how can we respond to polarised opinions found in the media about its current directions of change? This course aims to expose participants to real scenes in Japanese schools before discussing a range of issues, including administrative structures, teaching styles, media debates and reform. This will build knowledge and inform reflection on key features of the Japanese education system and how it is changing due to internal debates and global policy flows. The course is designed for participants with an interest in Japanese schools, Japanese society or comparative studies. No specialist knowledge is required.	Asst. Prof. Sam BAMKIN
AI for Understanding Human Intelligence (In-person course) Syllabus Where does human intelligence come from? Can we design artificial intelligence (AI) with human-like intelligence? Although state-of-the-art technologies sometimes surpass human abilities, their applications are still limited. A key challenge remains: enabling AI to acquire a range of cognitive abilities similar to those of humans. This course introduces a unique computational approach called cognitive developmental robotics, aiming to design AI and robots that can learn and develop as children do. This approach not only uncovers the principles of cognitive development but also allows us to create artificial systems capable of acquiring cognitive abilities. Students interested in exploring both artificial and human intelligence are encouraged to join this course.	Prof. Yukie NAGAI
AI and Social Justice (In-person course) Syllabus My teaching and research at the University of Tokyo has been motivated on the inclusion of minorities in society, whether the marginalization is due to their race, class, gender, linguistic ability or otherwise. I am very excited to be thinking about artificial intelligence with the GUC participants, particularly about how this technology can be examined using the lens of social justice. By welcoming students from various parts of the world, I believe we will be able to see just how varied our understandings are when it comes to our concerns about AI and how it can be used for social justice.	Prof. Yuko ITATSU
A History and Culture of the Senses (In-person course) Syllabus This course examines how historical changes have shaped sensory experiences from the late nineteenth century to the present. The senses are central to our daily lives, influencing how we interact with others and perceive our environments through touch, sound, smell, taste, and vision. By exploring the formation and transformation of sensory experiences, the course invites students to use the senses as a lens to analyze political, economic, and cultural change.	Assoc. Prof. Ai HISANO

Term 3 Courses:

Field Trip with Professor Yoshiyuki Kawazoe on Urban Design in Tokyo (In-person course) Syllabus The lecturer, an active architect, will take you on a field trip on urban design in Tokyo. You will experience the real charm of Tokyo, which you cannot find in ordinary sightseeing tours.	Prof. Yoshiyuki KAWAZOE
Modern Japanese History (In-person course) Syllabus History is not just about the past, and it’s definitely not just about memorizing dates and names. History tries to understand how and why societies change and tells stories about the lives of other human beings. As such, it’s very useful for understanding yourself and the contemporary world on a deeper level, and it’s endlessly fascinating for the window it offers into the experience of those that came before us. Japanese modern history is both rich in its own right, and a great case study to think about how what is often called modernity, for better or worse, has shaped our world. Join me in this course and let’s explore together!	Assoc. Prof. Michael FACIUS
Governance for Sustainable Development (In-person course) Syllabus As a faculty member of the Graduate School of Public Policy, I teach on topics related to public management. This Global Unit Course will focus on governance – the structure and process of making and implementing decisions concerning public policies – and will elucidate how the choice of governance makes a difference in the progress towards sustainable development. Combining lectures and case-based exercises, the course offers a platform for students to critically engage in debates and exchange ideas about how various modes of governance ought to be designed for our societies and to consider their merits, drawbacks, and unintended consequences.	Prof. Naomi AOKI
Making Robots Expressive (In-person course) Syllabus In this class students will explore the intersection of robotics, control, and social psychology. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the underlying algorithms and sensor integration required to achieve nuanced robotic expressions. Emphasis will be placed on the interdisciplinary nature of expressive control, incorporating aspects of control theory, artificial intelligence, computer vision, and psychology. Through hands-on projects and theoretical discussions, students develop the skills to design robots capable of engaging with humans. This class not only fosters technical proficiency but also encourages a thoughtful consideration of the ethical and societal implications of robotics.	Prof. Gentiane VENTURE
Resource Management, Efficiency and Social Justice: Both Perspectives from Economics and Sociology (Online course) Syllabus This course addresses the issue of resource management by asking three questions: i) What are common pool resources? ii) For whom are common pool resources important? iii) How can we effectively manage common pool resources? Resource management is often considered a local issue as they are managed by local communities and stakeholders; however, it is also a global issue, as resource management impacts biodiversity and the ecosystems which are critical for us to stay in the planetary boundaries. One of the key difficulties in designing policies for biodiversity and ecosystems stems from this locality in resource management, especially compared to climate change mitigation and global warming. This lecture, by focusing on resource management at a local level, seeks to reveal some of the cutting edge policy on biodiversity conservation and ecosystem management.	Assoc. Prof. Hiroe ISHIHARA
Dilemmas of Development in Asia (In-person course) Syllabus I have been teaching subjects related to the environment and development in the context of Asia for the past 20 years. And it remains an exciting field, especially examining how our knowledge can be mobilized to address real world problems, and how Japan and Asia have unique experiences to share with the world. I plan to conduct an interactive class that challenges your basic assumptions about what “development” is or should be. Cases will be drawn from my field experience in Thailand, Laos and Cambodia along with Japan. Looking forward to meeting you all!	Prof. Jin SATO
An Introduction to Quantum Biology (In-person course) Syllabus The development of the theory of quantum mechanics in the early 20th Century caused a paradigm shift in our understanding of physics and chemistry, yet our theories of biology remain grounded in the ideas of classical physics. Quantum Biology considers how quantum phenomena can afford biology abilities beyond the limitations of classical physics. In this course, we will look at the key features of quantum mechanics and the possibilities they offer biology. We then focus on the particular case of the remarkable ability of some animals to sense the Earth’s magnetic field and exploit it for navigation.	Prof. Jonathan WOODWARD
Heritage Studies in Japan (In-person course) Syllabus I am interested in what the past means to us, humans living in the present. This interest has been driving me for over 25 years to pursue ‘heritage studies’, which is a subject field that questions: Who decides what heritage is? How and why is that decision made? Who uses heritage, and how and why? I wish to explore these questions together with you, by making particular reference to heritage in Japan.	Assoc. Prof. Akira MATSUDA
Law in Transnational East Asia (In-person course) Syllabus This course is for anyone interested in how such an internally diverse region as East Asia became a somewhat coherent region in the past, and how it might relate to the rest of the world in the future. Tokyo is one of the best places in the world to study East Asian cultures and societies (I would argue the best, but of course I’m biased). My area of expertise is in the Legal History and Comparative Law involving East Asian societies. After completing my LL.B. in Tokyo and D.Phil. in Oxford, I have held research and teaching posts in Columbia Law School, Hong Kong University, the National University of Singapore, and Yale University. The GUC has been providing a wonderful opportunity for students with diverse backgrounds to come together, and to learn from each other. I am excited to participate again this year, especially as it is the second time it will be conducted In-Real-Life. I look forward to learning from the vibrant exchanges myself, and to begin a long-term exchange of ideas and experiences with each one of my students.	Prof. Kentaro MATSUBARA

Japanese Language Courses (Online, synchronous)

*Japanese Language Courses are open only to the students who register for at least one of the main courses above.
The courses will be taught by faculty of the Center for Japanese Language Education.

Term 1
・Survival Japanese (Beginner Level) [Term 1] Syllabus
・Level 5 Further Steps (Advanced Level) Syllabus
・Level 4 Further Steps (Upper Intermediate Level) Syllabus

Term 2
・Level 3 Further Steps (Lower Intermediate Level) Syllabus
・Level 2 Further Steps (Upper Elementary Level) Syllabus

Term 3
・Survival Japanese (Beginner Level) [Term 3] Syllabus
・Level 1 Further Steps (Lower Elementary Level) Syllabus

*UTokyo reserves the right to cancel courses for reasons such as insufficient number of registrants. Appropriate refunds will be given in case of cancellation.

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Eligibility

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Eligibility

Applicants must be full-time undergraduate or graduate students currently enrolled at a university outside of Japan, either at the time of application or during the program period.
UTokyo students are also welcome to apply for the program. For detailed information for UTokyo students, please search for "UTokyo GUC" on the UTAS Bulletin Board, where specific details about the GUC program are posted.

The eligibility requirements outlined here serve as the primary guidelines; however, recognizing the diversity of our student body, applicants are eligible to apply if they believe they do not fully meet the listed criteria, understanding that while there is no guarantee of selection, each course has its own review process, and exceptions may be made at the discretion of the instructor.
The decision to apply rests with each applicant; however, please note that the application fee is non-refundable, and the GUC Office does not provide feedback on screening status or results.
To maintain fairness in the screening process, applicants are also advised not to contact the instructors of each course directly.

Language Requirement

All UTokyo GUC courses are taught in English except for Japanese language courses, and knowledge of Japanese is not required.
While a certificate of English proficiency is not required, students must possess sufficient language proficiency to complete university-level coursework.
The minimum required proficiency is TOEFL iBT 90 or IELTS 6.5.

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Fees

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Application Fee

・JPY 5,000

The application fee must be paid by credit card ONLY during the application period and is strictly non-refundable.

Depending on the payment option you choose within Flywire, which handles the payment procedure via the online application system, a handling charge may apply.
Such a charge must be borne by the applicant.

There is no application fee for UTokyo students.

Program Fees

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In-person format
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・1-Unit course: JPY 180,000
・2-Unit course: JPY 360,000
(JPY 180,000 per Global Unit)

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Online format
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・0.5-Unit course: JPY 35,000
(JPY 70,000 per Global Unit)

The program fee must be paid by credit card ONLY during the payment period in April, after the announcement of the screening results.

Depending on the payment option you choose within Flywire, which handles the payment process, a handling charge may apply.
Such a charge must be borne by the applicant.

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Discounts for Students from AUA/IARU/USTEP Universities
Students currently enrolled at AUA/IARU/USTEP universities (also refer to the lists below) are eligible for a 15% discount on the program fees.
・AUA Members
・IARU Members
・USTEP Partner Universities*
^{*Including Singapore Management University (SMU).

The discount on the program fee(s) will be applied to successful applicants from partner universities after the screening results are announced.}

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Scholarship
For details about the scholarship and its application procedures, please contact the scholarship provider directly via the link below.
・FUTI Scholarships for students in the US for summer programs

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Global Unit / Assessment

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Global Unit / Assessment

Students will be rigorously assessed based on their performance and the number of class hours.
Upon successful completion of each course, students will receive a Global Unit Certificate for each course, which includes their grade and the number of Global Units earned.

These "Global Units" may be used to calculate credits for transfer to students' home institutions; however, the transfer of credits is solely dependent on the policies of the respective institutions.
We strongly recommend that students check with their home institutions in advance to confirm whether the credits can be transferred.
For the syllabus of each course, please refer to the information provided under Messages from the Instructors.

Course Level:
Please assess the course level based on the "Syllabus" page, which includes details such as prerequisites, course contents, and required/reference readings.
This page contains all official information instructors can share before the course begins, as applicants are not permitted to contact them directly to ensure fairness in the screening process.
Some information may not explicitly state the course level, but this reflects the program’s effort to accommodate the diverse backgrounds of GUC students.
Although the program is primarily designed for undergraduates, instructors ensure the content is accessible to graduate students, as the program is also open to them.

Contact Hours of Global Unit

A "Global Unit" consists of 15 hours, comprising 10 sessions of 90 minutes each.
It is aligned with the UCTS (UMAP Credit Transfer Scheme).

The contact hours for each course per Global Unit are as follows:
・1-Unit course: 15 hours (900 minutes / 90-minute session × 10)
・0.5-Unit course: 7.5 hours (450 minutes / 90-minute session × 5)
・2-Unit course: 30 hours (1800 minutes / 90-minute session × 20)

Global Unit Certificate

The Global Unit Certificate for each course is the only official document issued by the University of Tokyo to verify students' participation.

It includes the following information:
・Participant's name
・Course name
・Number of Global Units for the course
・Lecture type (In-person/Online)
・Instructor's name
・Course period
・Grade earned by the participant
・Number of Global Units earned by the participant
・Notes ("*1 Global Unit = 90 minutes × 10 / 0.5 Global Unit = 90 minutes × 5", "**System of Grading: S (100-90), A (89-80), B (79-70), C (69-60), D (Fail)")

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Application

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^{Updated on April 17th, 2025}
UTokyo Global Unit Courses (GUC) 2025 - Screening Results

^{Updated on April 14th, 2025}
To Applicants: Information Regarding the UTokyo GUC 2025 Application

The screening results are scheduled to be announced around mid-April.
The results will be posted here and simultaneously sent to the contact email address you provided via TAO.
Please rest assured that you will receive the announcement once it is released.
We are currently in the process of preparing the notifications and sincerely appreciate your patience.

We kindly ask for your understanding that, in order to ensure a fair and transparent selection process for all applicants, all updates and information are shared exclusively through this official website.
As noted, we are unable to respond to individual inquiries regarding screening status or results.

Thank you again for your interest in the program!

^{Updated on March 14th, 2025}
The application period for the UTokyo GUC 2025 has closed at 16:00 on Friday, March 14th.
We greatly appreciate the large number of applications we have received from all of you!

Please be aware that the screening process for all applications will commence collectively on our end after the application deadline, independent of TAO, based on the information provided via TAO.

It is normal for the status on TAO to continue displaying "Application completed" during this period, so there is no need to worry!

^{Updated on March 11th, 2025}
As the application deadline approaches, please double-check STEP 4 carefully.

Ensure that your application status moves from the page displaying the "Incomplete" tag to the page displaying the "Completed" tag under "My Applications" in the "Applications" category.
Only students with a "Completed" status will be considered for screening.

Please note that

Late submissions will not be accepted under any circumstances.
Once your application is submitted, no modifications can be made, including resubmitting required documents or changing course preferences.
Applications or documents submitted via other methods (e.g., email) will also not be accepted under any circumstances.

The GUC office does not reply to such requests.

Thank you for your interest in applying for GUC 2025!

Submitting the required documentation with complete and accurate information is essential for a successful application.
We kindly ask that you first review ALL the information on this GUC website and then carefully read the following instructions.

The GUC Office responds to inquiries based on priority, given the high volume we receive.
If you do not hear from us, please review our website thoroughly, as it may already address your concerns.
Your cooperation is greatly appreciated!

▶ UTokyo GUC 2025 Terms and Conditions

Step 1: Before accessing the application system, please ensure you have prepared the following items:

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▶ For General Information
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1. Copy of Passport (PDF) Required for identity verification	Submit the pages showing your name, photo, passport number and expiration date. If you do not have a passport, please submit an alternative official document issued by the government of your country of citizenship. The selection of which document to submit is at the applicant's discretion.
2. Color ID Photo (JPEG) For identification purposes	The photo must be 45mm (H) x 35mm (W), have a plain background, and be taken within the last three months. In the case that you successfully pass the screening process, this photo will also be used in the class photo list shared among all GUC instructors, TAs, staff members, and students on the LMS (Learning Management System).
3. Copy of Student ID (PDF) To confirm current enrollment at a university	Submit the side(s) displaying the institution name, your name, expiration date, and face photo. If your student ID does not include all four pieces of information mentioned above, please submit additional or alternative document(s) to verify them so that we can confirm your current university enrollment. The selection of which document to submit is at the applicant's discretion.
4. Official Transcript in English (PDF) To verify your academic background	Submit the most recent transcript issued by your home institution. If you do not have it, please submit alternative document(s) to verify that your academic background at your current/previous university is relevant to the course(s) you are applying for. The selection of which document to submit is at the applicant's discretion. Please note that the GUC Office is unable to provide individual guidance on document selection.

Applicants who are unable to provide the exact required documents with the necessary information listed above are expected to submit alternative or additional documents, compiled into a single PDF file, that you deem appropriate to verify the necessary information for each item.

These documents should appropriately verify the required information for each item.
The selection of such documents is at the applicant's discretion.
The GUC Office is unable to provide individual guidance on document selection.
Please carefully determine which alternative or additional documents best verify the required information and submit them accordingly.

Additionally, please leave an explanation in the comment box provided in the application form.

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▶ For Course Preferences
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Applicants have the flexibility to select multiple courses to attend across different terms.

For details on the course level of each course, please refer to the respective "Syllabus" page under the "Messages from the Instructors / Syllabus" section, which includes information such as prerequisites, course content, and required or reference readings.
Additionally, the "Course Level" information under the "Global Unit / Assessment" section may serve as supplementary guidance.

・For the main courses, as long as there is no time conflict, you can apply for multiple courses—or even just one course—regardless of the duration of the 'Term'.
(The term 'Term' refers to just an administrative division, and the required dates and times for students to attend the class(es) align with the schedule shown on the timetable.)
・Japanese Language Courses are available only to students who register for at least one of the main courses.

Please refer to the timetable and carefully choose your preferred course(s), keeping in mind potential time conflicts.
Be especially cautious if the courses you select are held at different campuses or locations by referring to 'UTokyo Campuses and Access' under the 'Staying in Japan' section on the GUC website.

Once your application is submitted, no modifications can be made, including resubmitting required documents or changing course preferences, to ensure fairness in the selection process.
The GUC Office and the application system do not check for time conflicts, and no refunds will be issued for them.

A Statement of Purpose (maximum 300 words)
required for each course you apply for

Your statement of purpose should:
- Describe what you hope to gain from the course.
- Explain how you can contribute to the intellectual life of the program.
You may also include details of any related courses you have previously taken and/or describe how this program aligns with your current course of study or supports your professional development.

Applicants for Japanese Language Courses must complete the Question Sheet* (*For the "Application ID" in the Question Sheet, please refer to Step 2 on this page.) provided separately by the Center for Japanese Language Education, which includes the Level Check Test, prior to completing the application process.

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▶ For Paying the Application Fee
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Credit Card

Available brands depend on the option you choose within Flywire, which handles the payment procedure via the online application system, as well as your location.

Step 2: Create an Account for the Online Application System (TAO)

All applications must be completed through the designated online application system, The Admissions Office (hereinafter referred to as TAO).
Follow these steps to create an account, proceed with your application, and pay the application fee using a credit card:

1. Create an Account

Visit the following link, fill in the necessary information, and click 'Create an account.'

https://admissions-office.net/en/applicant/sign_up

2. Set Language and Find the Application Page
- After creating your account, set the language to English.
- Search for the UTokyo GUC Program application page.
3. Start Your Application
- Click on "Start my application" to begin the process and obtain your unique Application ID.
4. Check your Application ID and ensure you retain it for subsequent procedures
- You can view your Application ID by selecting "Applications" from the menu tab.
Step 3: Thoroughly Review Your Application Before Submitting
Before submitting your application, please ensure that all information is accurate and complete by reviewing the following points:

No Changes After Submission and No Submissions Outside TAO
- All application steps for GUC 2025, including the submission of required documentation, must be completed exclusively through the TAO.
- Once your application is submitted, no modifications can be made, including resubmitting required documents or changing course preferences, to ensure fairness in the selection process.
- Additionally, applications or documents submitted via other methods (e.g., email) will not be accepted under any circumstances.
- The screening process will be conducted based solely on the required documentation submitted to TAO. Furthermore, the application fee is non-refundable once paid.
Step 4: Complete your application and check your application status
After completing your submission, ensure that the application status moves from the page with the "Incomplete" tag to the page with the "Completed" tag in "My Applications" under the "Applications" category. This will indicate that your application is now subject to screening.

<Note>
By creating an account on TAO, you agree to the "The Admissions Office terms and conditions" and "Handling of personal information" provided by TAO Co., Ltd., the service provider for TAO.
Please note that the GUC Office will not be able to provide feedback on screening status or results.

The deadline for the application is 16:00 Japan Standard Time on Friday, March 14th, 2025.
We strongly recommend applying well in advance to allow sufficient time based on the following reasons:
- After the application deadline, the online application system (TAO) will automatically close, and late submissions cannot be accepted under any circumstances.
- The GUC Office may not respond to inquiries promptly.
- The GUC Office will not be responsible for any consequences resulting from applicants' failure to receive, read, and/or reply to messages sent from our office, as well as any malfunctions of networks, PCs, or other devices that may prevent applicants from submitting applications in time.
- Some payment methods may experience delays before completion.
- Even if an application is not successfully submitted, the application fee, once paid, will not be refunded.

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Staying in Japan

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UTokyo Campuses and Access

UTokyo GUC courses will primarily be offered at Hongo Campus, with some courses held at Komaba Campus.
Both campuses are located in central Tokyo, and it takes approximately 60 minutes to travel between them.

Access Map to the Campuses

For detailed directions, visit the Access Map.

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Hongo Campus
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　Nearest Stations:

　・Todaimae Station (Namboku Line)

　・Hongo-sanchome Station (Marunouchi/Oedo Line)
　・Yushima/Nezu Station (Chiyoda Line)

　Transportation from Tokyo Station:
　・About 10-20 minutes by Tokyo Metro to Hongo-sanchome Station.

　Walking Distance from Ueno Station:

　・Approximately 20-30 minutes on foot to Hongo Campus.

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Komaba Campus
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　Nearest Station:

　・Komaba-Todaimae Station (Keio-Inokashira Line)

　Transportation from Shibuya Station:
　・About 3 minutes by train to Komaba-Todaimae Station.

Accommodation

While campus housing is not available for GUC students, this provides an opportunity to choose accommodation that best suits your preferences and needs.
Tokyo offers a wide variety of options, and past participants have enjoyed selecting and securing their own housing.

Prices vary by hotel. A standard hotel room (with a private bathroom) typically costs around USD 100 per day.
During the summer vacation, prices tend to be higher, but early-booking discounts are usually available.

Visa

For successful applicants who have been accepted into in-person courses and hold a nationality that requires a visa to enter Japan, a temporary visitor visa is required.
UTokyo will send detailed information and supporting documents after confirming payment of the program fees, following the announcement of the screening results.

Information on visa-related matters will be shared with successful applicants based on their admitted courses after the screening results are announced.

Students requiring a visa should apply at the Japanese Embassy or Consulate General in their country of residence.
Please note that this process may take several weeks.

For more information:
・Visa Information
・Visa Exemption (Short-Term Stay)

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Student Voices

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National University of Singapore
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The learning material is thought-provoking and interesting. My professors put in great efforts to arrange the material and deliver the content in an engaging and entertaining manner. I was able to learn a lot about several new and challenging topics because of their amazing teaching approach. All my classmates are very open-minded and kind-hearted despite our different cultural backgrounds. We had a wonderful time together learning and exploring the academics as well as Japanese culture in general.

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Open Universiteit
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All of GUC was satisfactory, especially the Get Together, the lectures, and the class atmosphere, which really stood out. The Get Together created an immediate connection with the other students. The lectures were engaging and interesting, the online material was a nice addition, and the class atmosphere made the classes enjoyable to attend.

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National Taiwan University
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Since this is my first time taking this kind of course abroad, I have benefited greatly from the opportunity to meet students from different countries, regions, and cultures.

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Chulalongkorn University
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The professor and TA were very kind and helpful; they listened to our comments and tried to adapt the class to meet our needs. The classmates came from various countries, which made the class truly intercultural. I really enjoyed discussing with my classmates because it helped broaden my perspective and allowed me to learn about other cultures—not only Japanese.

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Tsinghua University
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The lecture was great, especially the perspectives it provided and the discussions it involved. The professor, as well as the TA, organized the lecture material in a way that covered many topics, which I found both interesting and important. I also feel fortunate to have been in a classroom with outstanding students from prestigious universities around the world, and I truly appreciate the opportunity to have made friends with them.

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Universiti Malaya
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The professor provided us with highly useful and globally relevant information of course topics. It opened my eyes to the importance of communicating with classmates from different backgrounds.

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University of Toronto
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From beginning to end, GUC involved fully interacting with classmates, staff, and lecturers. This created an interactive class atmosphere and allowed us to get to know each other well.

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Seoul National University
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The Get Together was a wonderful opportunity to meet students from abroad, and they greatly helped with my team project during the lecture. Additionally, there were plenty of learning materials, which allowed me to understand the lecture in depth. I was also satisfied with the University of Tokyo's campus and its location, as there were many things to do and places to explore.

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Universitas Indonesia
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This is completely new to me because I have never had the experience of studying in another country. I really liked the Get Together in this program because I met new people from different universities and countries. This allowed me to learn about their cultures, and we shared them with each other.

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University of Cambridge
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It was enriching to study both from the learning material and the in-person lectures, as there was a lot of new information to absorb, making it all very interesting for me. I also appreciated the class atmosphere, as there was a diverse range of people from different places and backgrounds. This diversity made the discussions vibrant and allowed me to learn new things about cultural contexts I had not been exposed to before.

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University of California Los Angeles
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The lecturers during my time in the program were beyond exceptional, providing a wealth of detail and insight while also taking great care to monitor classroom engagement and nurture a diligent yet fun atmosphere.

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The University of Hong Kong
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The overall management and structure of GUC courses were well organised. I was able to gain all the required details and information without any confusion. I was well-informed.

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Oxford University
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I found the material of the course I took to be very rich. It did not feel like a short programme; the lectures were very enriching, adding to the learning material. The class atmosphere was also warm and welcoming. We had a lot of group discussions, and I was able to make some good friends.

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The University of Tokyo
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The lecture wasn’t just about sitting and listening; we were also able to visit the lab frequently and observe how the experiments were conducted. I was satisfied with the cultural exposure I gained through GUC by communicating with the other outstanding students in the course.

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Contact

The GUC Office responds to inquiries based on priority, given the high volume we receive.
If you do not hear from us, we kindly ask that you thoroughly review our website, as it may already address your concerns.
Your cooperation is greatly appreciated!

For inquiries regarding GUC, kindly direct them to the following email address:
utokyo-guc.adm(at)gs.mail.u-tokyo.ac.jp *Please change (at) to @

UTokyo Global Unit Courses (GUC)
International Education Promotion Group, Education and Student Support Department
The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8652 JAPAN

⇒ Certificates and Related Matters for former GUC students

UTokyo Global Unit Courses

Program Overview

Program Overview

Key Features

Program Schedule

UTokyo GUC 2025 Program Schedule

UTokyo GUC 2025 Course Offerings

Messages from the Instructors / Syllabus

Eligibility

Eligibility

Language Requirement

Fees

Application Fee

Program Fees

Global Unit / Assessment

Global Unit / Assessment

Contact Hours of Global Unit

Global Unit Certificate

Application

Step 1: Before accessing the application system, please ensure you have prepared the following items:

Step 2: Create an Account for the Online Application System (TAO)

Step 3: Thoroughly Review Your Application Before Submitting

Step 4: Complete your application and check your application status

Staying in Japan

UTokyo Campuses and Access

Accommodation

Visa

Student Voices

Contact