The process of obtaining a degree
Index
Master's program/Master's program
How to earn credits and proceed with your studies
To obtain a Master's degree in each degree program, students must acquire at least 34-36 credits, receive the necessary research guidance, and pass the thesis examination and final examination. Working professionals may choose to submit a research results report instead of a Master's thesis, with the approval of their supervising professor. In this case, students must still acquire at least 34-36 credits, receive the necessary research guidance, and pass the research results report examination and final examination.
Regarding the selection of "Master's Thesis" and "Research Results Report"
The difference between a "master's thesis" and a "research report" lies in the fact that a "master's thesis" requires academic efforts such as researching prior research, setting an original theme, and collecting relevant materials, while a "research report" emphasizes practical verification and focuses on case studies related to the student's work. Although the basic process for awarding a degree is the same for both, in the case of a "research report," the research perspective is practical, and the main research subject is familiar examples and data collected through work.
Long-term student system and short-term student system
The extended enrollment system allows students enrolled in a master's program or doctoral program who are also employed to remain enrolled beyond the standard period of study and continue their research without, in principle, having to repeat a year or take a leave of absence. While it is possible to enroll for up to eight semesters (four years), an application must be submitted after thorough consultation with the research advisor.
The short-term enrollment program allows students enrolled in a master's or doctoral program to complete the program in two semesters (one year) or three semesters (one year and one term), provided they meet certain requirements. Consultation with a research advisor regarding planned study and research is required.
Doctoral course
Educational content and teaching system
In the "Advanced Topics in Doctoral Dissertation Research Methods" course taken in the first semester upon enrollment, students will build upon the research skills cultivated in the master's program to develop the ability to independently engage in research activities. While the master's program is primarily lecture-based, the doctoral program at this university focuses on research guidance for the preparation of the doctoral dissertation. Students will prepare for writing their doctoral dissertation by taking specialized seminars taught by their research advisor over three years and six semesters. At the same time, they will develop the ability to independently conduct research activities as a researcher or to engage in highly specialized work. At the end of the fourth semester, students will be eligible to take the "Comprehensive Examination." This examination tests specialized knowledge in the relevant field in an essay format, and those who pass will be recognized as qualified to submit a doctoral dissertation and will proceed to write their dissertation in earnest. In the semester scheduled for completion, students will take "Doctoral Dissertation Research Guidance" to aim for the final completion and submission of their doctoral dissertation.
Timetable
Machida Campus
Special intensive courses may be held during long breaks (summer and winter). Weekday classes are primarily held from the second to the seventh period. Some classes are also scheduled on Saturdays.
About the courses in the Psychology Practice Research Degree Program
*Many clinical psychology courses are held during the 2nd to 5th periods.
*Many courses in the field of positive psychology are held during the 6th and 7th periods.
Therefore, it is easier for working adults to take the course.
Shinjuku Campus
Special intensive courses may be held during long breaks (summer and winter). Considering that many students are working adults, classes are primarily held during the 6th and 7th periods on weekdays and on Saturdays. Some classes may also be held on Sundays.
About Degree Program in Language Education Practical Research Classes
*Many courses are scheduled from the 6th period onwards to accommodate working adult students.
Some classes may be held on Saturdays or Sundays.