About Toyo University

●What is Toyo University

Founded in 1887, Toyo University is the only private university in Japan that puts “philosophy education” into practice. Its predecessor, Philosophy Academy, was a product of the social circumstances that existed in Japan at that time of its foundation. Its founder, the philosopher Enryo Inoue, was alarmed at how the Japanese public was being swept away by rapid changes in values as new cultures from the West pressed in following Japan’s opening to the world. He thus established Philosophy Academy as a place where “philosophy education,” which enables students to develop their own perspectives and insights, is respected.
In today’s society, which is marked by increasing globalization and the intermingling of various cultures and values, Toyo University reaffirms the importance of “philosophy education” as a pursuit that cultivates the ability to examine the essence of things and establishes the foundation of the individual.

Toyo University sees “philosophy education” as the encountering of phenomena with an inquisitive mind; in other words, with the question “Why?” Even more specifically, it defines philosophy education as the repeated practice of deep thought aimed at discovering true nature. The university engages in character-building that has this “philosophy education” as its basis. It also stresses “philosophy education” as the foundation for learning in all areas of specialized education and makes lectures on this topic a part of all academic coursework.

Toyo University’s goal is to develop “global human resources(i.e.'human assets')” possessing the ability to thrive in not only Japan but any region or society of the world following graduation. With this in mind, it gives students comprehensive skills that are supported by three pillars: “philosophy education,” “globalization,” and “career preparation.” It is thus starting a new “basic education program” by reinforcing and reorganizing its liberal arts education to link these three pillars.

We have concluded inter-university agreements with 227 universities in 37 countries and regions, and are actively developing various initiatives such as language seminars where students can take local classes online, even in the face of the spread of the new coronavirus. This honor is very much in keeping with Toyo University’s ongoing aim to develop global human resources: people who are capable of carving out their own future, who are not swayed by changes in time and environment, and who can see the world from multiple perspectives. 

As a comprehensive university, Toyo University has established the "Toyo University Incorporated Educational Institution SDGs Action Charter " this year, and will contribute to the future of global society by actively working on the SDGs as a "center of knowledge”.

Rooted in its 134-year tradition of handing down its founder’s spirit to younger generations, and in pursuit of its mission to develop global human resources, Education and research that make use of individuality and characteristics to achieve the SDGs. Toyo University remains committed to educating, enriching, and nurturing each of its students.

●Facts and Figures

The Founding Spirit of Toyo University

●The Founding Spirit

・The Basis of All Learning Lies in Philosophy
・Integrating Knowledge and Virtue
・Independence and Self-Initiative

●Educational Principles

[To have one's own philosophy]
We foster individuals who study and appreciate diverse values, and who have their own philosophy (outlook on life and the world).
[To think deeply in search of true essence]
We foster individuals who think deeply in a logical and systematic manner, in search of the true essence of things, without being led by preconceptions and prejudices.
[To tackle social issues proactively]
We foster individuals who will tackle social issues voluntarily and proactively, and who can establish good human relations with others.

●Heart of Toyo University

[Improving oneself for the benefit of others]
The reason for improving oneself is to be able to work for others. It is the heart of Toyo University to be aware of this, and to study accordingly with diligence.
[Striving in action]
It is the heart of Toyo University to never stop moving forward in activities in the real social world.

Faculty/school group

Master's Degree

• Graduate School of Business Administration | Course of Business Administration and Marketing
• Graduate School of Letters | Course of International Culture and Communication Studies
• Graduate School of Economics | Course of Public-Private Partnership
• Graduate School of Global and Regional Studies | Course of Global Innovation Studies/Master's program
• Graduate School of Global and Regional Studies | Course of Regional Development Studies/Master' program
• Graduate School of International Tourism Management | Course of International Tourism Management/Master's program

Doctoral Degree

• Graduate School of Global and Regional Studies | Course of Regional Development Studies/Doctoral program
• Graduate School of International Tourism Management | Course of International Tourism Management/Doctoral program