Graduate School of Information, Production and SystemsWaseda University

ARAKAWA, Masao, Dean of Graduate School of Information, Production and Systems, Waseda University

The Graduate School of Information, Production, and Systems (IPS) at Waseda University has now passed its over 20-year milestone. During this time, we have welcomed over 200 master course students annually, engaging them in both education and research. Students come from more than ten countries, primarily across Asia, and we offer two enrollment periods—spring and autumn—along with corresponding graduation ceremonies. This naturally creates an environment where students are constantly engaged in rigorous research throughout the year. Our programs are divided into three research domains: Information Architecture, Production Systems, and Integrated Systems.

Waseda University is one of Japanese most internationally advanced universities. Among our many schools, IPS hosts the largest number of international students. Here, individuals who have grown up in different cultures, with different common senses and way of thinkings, come together and engage in discussions. These interactions often lead to clashes that stem from differences. These clashes could turn into trouble, if they left conflicts unsolved. When working toward a common goal, leaving such conflicts unresolved is not an option. Only by overcoming these clashes and engaging in meaningful discussions can we achieve mutual understanding and collaboration. These clashes, therefore, provide crucial opportunities for fostering capacity and diversity in yourself.

At IPS, we also have the Information, Production, and Systems Research Center (IPSRC), which promotes practical research in collaboration with industry. One of Waseda University’s mission is to contribute to society through practical application of scholarship. By addressing real-world problems, one can develop the skills and mindset needed to solve them. This approach often applies across various challenges, allowing one to cultivate adaptability.

Our graduates go on to pursue careers both within Japan and in their home countries. By maintaining the friendships you have made at IPS, especially across Asia. They can establish valuable networks in their respective regions. In an era of increasing globalization, one of IPS’s unique strengths lies in the network of friendships that extend across borders.