
Tokyo University of Science

Masatoshi Ishikawa
Summary
Tokyo University of Science (TUS), established in 1881, is one of Japan's oldest and largest private universities focused on science and technology. The university was founded by 21 graduates from the University of Tokyo's Department of Physics under the name Tokyo Academy of Physics. It was renamed Tokyo College of Science in 1883 and became a university in 1949. The founding spirit of TUS is to build a better future through science, with an educational principle of "Achieving Excellence."
The university offers a wide range of programs in various fields such as science, engineering, pharmaceutical sciences, and management. TUS has a total of approximately 19,768 students, including undergraduates, graduates, and doctoral researchers. The student body includes a significant number of international students, with 834 students from around 18 different countries. The university has a strong focus on research, with 79 partner universities and organisations worldwide.
TUS operates multiple campuses across Japan, including the Kagurazaka campus in Tokyo, the Katsushika campus, and others in Chiba and Hokkaido. The university is home to numerous research institutes and divisions covering areas like fire science, nanotechnology, and biological sciences. TUS is committed to contributing to global challenges such as climate change, energy shortages, and infectious diseases through research and education.
The university's mission is to produce graduates capable of addressing complex issues in science and technology. Its vision for the future includes becoming a global research hub and contributing to sustainable development. TUS emphasises cross-disciplinary education, fostering creativity, and encouraging collaboration among students and researchers. As it looks towards its 150th anniversary in 2031, TUS aims to expand its impact both in Japan and internationally.
History
Tokyo University of Science (TUS) was founded in 1881 under the name Tokyo Academy of Physics by 21 graduates from the University of Tokyo’s Department of Physics. The founders of the academy aimed to provide an advanced education in science and technology, a discipline that was not widely offered in Japan at the time. They were motivated by a belief in the importance of science for the modernisation of Japan. In its early years, the academy operated without formal entrance exams, and the faculty taught students without pay. This approach to education was rigorous, with only a small fraction of students graduating.
In 1883, the institution was renamed Tokyo College of Science, and in 1949, it was officially established as Tokyo University of Science under Japan’s new university system. The university continued to focus on the teaching and development of science and technology, maintaining its commitment to "Achieving Excellence." The concept behind this educational principle was that only those who demonstrated true capability and dedication to their studies would graduate, regardless of their background or financial standing.
Throughout the 20th century, TUS expanded its academic offerings. In 1960, the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences was established, followed by the Faculty of Engineering in 1962 and the Faculty of Science and Technology in 1967. This marked a significant step towards the university becoming a comprehensive institution for science and engineering education. TUS also began offering graduate programmes, and in 1981, the university celebrated its centennial by marking its growth and achievements in the field of science education.
In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, TUS expanded further with the establishment of new campuses, including the Katsushika and Noda campuses. During this period, the university introduced new departments and schools, including the School of Management in 1993 and the Specialist Graduate School in 2004, reflecting its broader focus on interdisciplinary education.
In recent years, TUS has emphasised international collaboration and research. It currently has partnerships with over 70 universities and research organisations worldwide. The university is also known for its strong research capabilities, with many of its faculty members contributing to advancements in various fields, particularly in science and technology. Notably, TUS is the only private university in Japan to have produced a Nobel Prize winner, Satoshi ?mura, who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2015.
As TUS moves towards its 150th anniversary in 2031, the university remains committed to its founding mission of contributing to the betterment of society through scientific and technological advancement. The university continues to focus on developing highly skilled graduates who are prepared to address global challenges, such as climate change and energy shortages. TUS aims to expand its research capabilities further, positioning itself as a global research hub and continuing to serve as a key player in Japan’s technological and scientific future.
Courses
Tokyo University of Science (TUS) offers a broad range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses across various disciplines. The university is primarily focused on science and technology, providing students with the opportunity to gain deep knowledge and expertise in fields that are essential for tackling global challenges. The courses are designed to equip students with both theoretical and practical skills, enabling them to contribute effectively to industry, research, and innovation.
At the undergraduate level, TUS offers several faculties, each specialising in different fields of study. One of the core faculties is the Faculty of Science, which is divided into two divisions: Division I and Division II. Division I offers courses in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Applied Mathematics, Applied Physics, and Applied Chemistry. These programs provide a strong foundation in scientific principles and analytical skills. Division II focuses on more advanced topics and allows students to specialise in areas such as Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry, offering in-depth knowledge and research opportunities.
The Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences offers undergraduate courses in Pharmacy, which is a six-year program, and Medicinal and Life Sciences, a four-year course. These programs aim to provide students with the scientific knowledge and technical skills necessary for careers in the pharmaceutical industry, healthcare, and medical research. Students are also introduced to topics such as drug development, molecular biology, and medical treatments.
The Faculty of Engineering provides courses in a variety of engineering fields, including Architecture, Industrial Chemistry, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Information and Computer Technology. Students in these programs learn about the latest technological advances, engage in hands-on projects, and develop the skills needed for careers in the engineering sector. The Faculty of Science and Technology offers courses in subjects such as Mathematics, Physics and Astronomy, Information Sciences, Applied Biological Science, Architecture, Pure and Applied Chemistry, Electrical Engineering, Industrial and Systems Engineering, and Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. These programs prepare students for careers in technology-driven industries and provide opportunities for further research.
The Faculty of Advanced Engineering offers courses in Applied Electronics, Materials Science and Technology, Biological Science and Technology, Applied Physics, and Medical and Robotic Engineering Design. These programs are designed for students interested in more specialised areas of engineering, with a focus on cutting-edge technologies and interdisciplinary research.
The School of Management offers undergraduate courses in Management, Business Economics, and International Digital and Design Management. These programs are designed to develop students’ understanding of business, economics, and management, with a focus on leadership skills, strategic thinking, and digital innovation. The school prepares students for careers in business and entrepreneurship.
At the postgraduate level, TUS provides a wide range of Master’s and Doctoral courses in various fields. The Graduate School of Science offers courses in subjects like Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Applied Mathematics, Applied Physics, and Mathematics and Science Education. The Graduate School of Engineering offers Master’s courses in Architecture, Industrial Chemistry, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Information and Computer Technology. The Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences provides courses focused on advanced pharmaceutical sciences and drug development.
The Graduate School of Science and Technology offers a range of subjects, including Mathematics, Physics and Astronomy, Information Sciences, Applied Biological Science, Architecture, Pure and Applied Chemistry, Electrical Engineering, Industrial and Systems Engineering, Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Civil Engineering, and Global Fire Science and Technology. The Graduate School of Advanced Engineering provides specialised courses in Applied Electronics, Materials Science and Technology, Biological Science and Technology, and Applied Physics.
TUS also offers a Professional Degree Course in Management of Technology through its Specialist Graduate School. This program aims to bridge the gap between science and business, equipping students with the skills needed to manage technological innovations effectively.
Global MBA rankings
- Tokyo University of Science (TUS) is ranked #751-760 in the QS World University Rankings 2025.
- In Times Higher Education, TUS is ranked 1201-1500 globally.
- U.S. News & World Report ranks TUS as #1291 in its Best Global Universities list.
- TUS is ranked 2nd in Japan for its Graduate School of Business by Eduniversal.
Job integration rate
Tokyo University of Science boasts a high job integration rate of 96% for its graduates, with students finding employment within a year of graduation. The university supports its students through dedicated career services, helping them secure placements across various industries. TUS offers strong industry connections, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the workforce. This placement rate reflects the university’s focus on practical skills and its commitment to equipping students with the necessary tools for success in the competitive job market.
General information
- Tokyo University of Science Rankings
- Tokyo University of Science
- The University of Tokyo : Rankings, Fees & Courses Details
- Tokyo University of Science [2025 Rankings by topic]
- Tokyo University of Science Ranking 2025: QS & World
- The University of Tokyo | World University Rankings
- Tokyo University of Science
- SCHOOL OF SCIENCE THE UNIVERSITY OF TOKYO
- Faculty of Science | The University of Tokyo
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Masatoshi Ishikawa
