School of Human SciencesWaseda University

Dean of the School of Human Sciences, Atsushi Ogihara

Waseda University’s Tokorozawa Campus was established in 1987 as part of the University’s centennial project. Coinciding with the creation of the campus, the Faculty of Human Sciences was also established as the ninth faculty.

Based on the reflection that the development of individual academic disciplines, along with science and technology, has not necessarily contributed to human happiness, the Faculty of Human Sciences aims to help people live more enriched, healthier, and happier lives, and is engaged in comprehensive, multi-disciplinary efforts to understand and solve diverse human-related problems.

The three majors that make up the Faculty are “Environment,” “Health and Welfare,” and “Information”—each of which refers to a key issue facing modern society. Each major offers a platform for diverse and complex approaches while enabling innovative curricula that facilitate open problem posing and problem solving across departmental boundaries. Through discussion, problem posing, and inquiry-based courses and graduate research seminars, students develop the ability to understand complex phenomena from various perspectives. While deepening their expertise, they acquire the overarching power to transcend existing frameworks. This process will help them realize that specialization in a single field of study and personal experience alone are insufficient to grasp complex phenomena.

Moreover, students can explore their interests and concerns, experiment, investigate societal phenomena, and connect these with various theories and methodologies, allowing them to achieve personal transformation. The opportunity to connect self, phenomena, and theory and to cultivate diverse values and a cooperative mindset is a significant strength of the interdisciplinary Faculty of Human Sciences. Through a flexible and integrative approach that transcends traditional academic frameworks and learning styles, the Faculty nurtures truly excellent individuals who are committed to tackling the challenges of modern society. Students are encouraged to make the most of this environment and contribute to various fields as part of their personal growth and academic development.

(September 27, 2024)