Meiji Gakuin University, Japan

Meiji Gakuin University: 160+ Years of ‘Do For Others’ – Christian Values, Global Vision, Academic Excellence

Introduction

Founded in 1863 with a mission rooted in Christian values, Meiji Gakuin University (MGU) has become a leading private institution with campuses in Tokyo (Shirokane) and Yokohama. With seven faculties, seven graduate schools, and a deeply embedded “Do for Others” philosophy, MGU fosters morally grounded, globally minded scholars through a rich heritage and forward-looking education.

1. Establishment & Historical Evolution

• 1863: Established as the Hepburn Academy by Dr. James Curtis Hepburn and his wife, embedding a Christian-based educational mission (Meiji Gakuin University).
• Merged over decades into Meiji Gakuin University, now celebrating over 160 years of academic tradition (Meiji Gakuin University).
• Historical architecture remains:
  • Imbrie House (c.1889), a rare missionary residence, is a designated Important Cultural Property (Meiji Gakuin University).
  • Memorial Hall, built in neo-Gothic style (1890), houses a functioning reed organ and also holds landmark status (Meiji Gakuin University).

2. Founding Spirit & Educational Philosophy

MGU upholds the Christian precept “Do for Others”—promoting moral education rooted in character, service, and compassion. This ethos is embedded across curriculum and campus life, including volunteerism and global engagement (Meiji Gakuin University). Students and faculty are encouraged to embody empathy and social responsibility in academic scholarship and community action (Meiji Gakuin University).

3. Faculties, Graduate Schools & Academic Programs

Faculties (Undergraduate):

• Letters (English, French, Art Studies)
• Economics (Economics, Business Administration, International Business)
• Sociology & Social Work
• Law (Juridical, Political, Global Legal Studies)
• International Studies (including Global & Transcultural Studies)
• Psychology (Psychology, Education & Child Development)
• Mathematical Informatics; plus a Center for Liberal Arts (Meiji Gakuin University)

Graduate Schools:

• Arts & Letters
• Economics
• Sociology & Social Work
• Law
• International Studies
• Psychology
• Business & Law (Meiji Gakuin University, Wikipedia)

Research Institutes:

• Christian Research
• Peace Research
• Language & Culture
• Industry & Economy
• Sociology & Social Work
• Law
• International Studies
• Center for Liberal Arts
• Psychology (Wikipedia)

4. Campus Facilities & Learning Spaces

Shirokane Campus Highlights:

• Main Building houses Academic and Student Affairs, Career Center, Teaching Services, and a central Library with the Toyama Kazuyuki Memorial Archives on the seventh floor (Meiji Gakuin University).
• Eco-Campus initiatives include the “Goat Project,” where grass-eating goats are used to maintain greenery sustainably .
• Chapel, Imbrie House, and Memorial Hall enrich the campus with historical and spiritual significance (Meiji Gakuin University).

Yokohama Campus (International Studies):

• Features the International Lounge, Clara Lounge, Chapel, Bridge of Distant Views, Hepburn Field, and eco-friendly areas fostering student collaboration and creativity .

5. Internationalization & Global Partnerships

• MGU has exchange agreements with 84 universities and a consortium across 24 countries, facilitating study abroad, research, and cultural programs (Meiji Gakuin University).
• The International Student Program (ISP) provides Japanese language instruction and elective courses in English, allowing cross-campus access between Shirokane and Yokohama (Meiji Gakuin University).

6. Career Development & Student Support

• The campus fosters student growth through the Career Center, Teaching Career Services, and the Student Support Center, which offer counseling, job resources, volunteer coordination, and insurance support (Meiji Gakuin University).
• Assistance services for international students include dormitories, guidance, and a caring support structure for academic and personal development (Meiji Gakuin University).

7. Academic Excellence & Reputation

• Rooted in a legacy of English-language and liberal arts education, MGU is renowned for its comprehensive multidisciplinary approach, academic excellence, and global vision (Meiji Gakuin University).

8. Scholarships & Learning Support

• MGU offers a range of scholarships and fee guidance through its admissions system, while dormitories and international program supports are in place to enhance student life (Meiji Gakuin University).

9. Notable Alumni & Achievements

• Shimazaki Toson, esteemed Meiji-era novelist and poet, graduated from MGU and penned the university’s school song (Wikipedia).
• The institution continues to develop influential leaders in law, business, social work, psychology, and global studies.

10. Address & Contact Details

Meiji Gakuin University
Shirokane Campus, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
Yokohama Campus, Kanagawa, Japan
Information on admissions, structures, and support is available via the official site (Meiji Gakuin University).

11. Rankings & Recognition

Notably, MGU’s historical legacy and Christian-based educational philosophy continue to distinguish it among Japan’s respected private universities. While official ranking information isn’t detailed on the website, its robust global outlook, faculty depth, and alumni achievements point to sustained recognition.

Conclusion

Meiji Gakuin University weaves together Christian heritage, academic diversity, and global engagement under the guiding principle of “Do for Others.” Its architectural legacy, international outlook, academic rigor, and student-centered support make it a uniquely compassionate and forward-thinking educational institution.

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