The purpose of this project is to examine assumptions of cultural diversity in the field of socioeconomic development. This project will highlight methodologies in social anthropology with research and implementation of development project.

Much changed during the twentieth century. We are facing more complex matters such as reducing poverty, trauma by natural disaster, terrorism and the degradation of human rights. We are focused on people more than material development. Our aim is to create and apply a policy of sustainable development.

Without the study of the diverse human cultures to analyze the social complexities, researchers will not be able to understand the milieu of indigenous culture where they do research.

Policymakers must also understand cultural diversity when developing social policy. Otherwise, sustainable, human-oriented development may not be achieved and stakeholders may not receive the proper consideration.

This project is based on social and cultural study. In the first year, students are required to enroll in courses in social anthropology, development anthropology and area studies to master theoretical knowledge for conducting field research for a master's thesis. In class, students are required to read theoretical publications and monographs, and make a presentation. Students also will meet individually with the professor once a month to develop and refine a field research program. During school breaks of the second year, students have the opportunity to conduct field research. Once the field research has been completed, students will write a thesis.

This program may be completed predominantly in English. Most of theoretical papers and monographs of development studies are in English and field research will take place outside Japan. Students may have opportunities to conduct research for Japanese ODA projects in developing countries which are implemented by JICA or JBIC.