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Top 20 Universities for PhD Study in Japan in 2023
Written by Hannah Slack
Japan has become increasingly established as a top location for international PhD study. One reason is that the Japanese government’s Top Global University Project has granted additional funding for 37 universities to improve their international connections and recruitment.
With all this in mind, we’ve taken a look at how Japanese universities are currently performing in the global rankings.
| University | THE 2023 | QS 2023 | ARWU 2022 |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Tokyo | 39 | =23 | 24 |
| Kyoto University | 68 | 36 | 41 |
| Tohoku University | 201-250 | 79 | 151-200 |
| Osaka University | 251-300 | 68 | 151-200 |
| Nagoya University | 301-350 | =112 | 101-150 |
| Tokyo Institute of Technology | 301-350 | 55 | 151-200 |
| Hokkaido University | 501-600 | =141 | 201-300 |
| Kyushu University | 501-600 | 135 | 301-400 |
| Tokyo Medical and Dental University | 501-600 | =392 | 601-700 |
| University of Tsukuba | 501-600 | =312 | 201-300 |
| Kansai Medical University | 601-800 | - | - |
| University of Occupational and Environmental Health | 601-800 | =23 | - |
| Yokohama City University | 601-800 | 501-510 | 801-900 |
| The University of Aizu | 801-1000 | - | - |
| Fujita Health University | 801-1000 | - | - |
| Hiroshima University | 801-1000 | 338 | 401-500 |
| Juntendo University | 801-1000 | - | 601-700 |
| Keio University | 801-1000 | =197 | 301-400 |
| Kindai University | 801-1000 | 1201-1400 | 701-800 |
| Kobe University | 801-1000 | =363 | 401-500 |
| Information in this table is based on the latest Times Higher Education World University Rankings, QS World University Rankings and Academic Ranking of World Universities. Visit their websites for more information. | |||
So, how good are Japanese universities for PhD study?
With a multitude of its universities in the global top 500, Japan performs well as an international study destination. Its emphasis on technological developments also makes the country an innovative location for students wishing to study in scientific fields.
But university rankings are not always that clear when it comes to PhD study. For a few extra tips on how to use them wisely be sure to read our guide to PhD rankings.
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Ready to start looking for your ideal study abroad opportunity? Browse PhDs in Japan on FindAPhD.com or read our guide to studying a PhD in Japan.
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