Kobe University: Global Business and Maritime Studies

Overview of Kobe University

Kobe University, one of Japan’s leading national universities, is located in the scenic port city of Kobe in Hyogo Prefecture. Established in 1902 as Kobe Higher Commercial School, the university has a long tradition in business, economics, and international studies. Today, it is recognized for its global orientation and excellence in fields such as business administration, maritime sciences, law, and social sciences.

With over 15,000 students, including around 1,000 international students, Kobe University offers a diverse and inclusive academic environment. The campus combines the calm of nature with urban convenience, as it sits between Mount Rokko and the Seto Inland Sea. This unique setting symbolizes Kobe University’s identity — a place where global perspective meets Japan’s maritime and business heritage.

Faculties and Programs

Kobe University consists of 10 undergraduate faculties and 15 graduate schools. The most internationally renowned are the Graduate School of Business Administration and the Graduate School of Maritime Sciences, which together define Kobe’s academic strengths in global commerce and ocean-related research.

Faculty of Business Administration

The Faculty and Graduate School of Business Administration (GSBA) is among Japan’s oldest and most respected business schools. It emphasizes evidence-based management, entrepreneurship, and innovation in the global economy. The school offers both Japanese- and English-taught programs, including the MBA Program in English (Kobe MBA), which attracts students from across Asia and beyond.

Courses include topics such as international management, marketing strategy, business analytics, finance, and organizational leadership. The program integrates case studies from both Japanese and global companies, ensuring students understand business practices in diverse cultural contexts.

Graduate School of Maritime Sciences

Kobe University’s maritime studies have a distinctive global reputation. The Graduate School of Maritime Sciences was established in 2003 through the integration of the Faculty of Science of Living Systems and the Faculty of Maritime Sciences, combining ocean technology, logistics, and safety sciences.

The program focuses on advanced maritime technology, ocean engineering, logistics management, and environmental sustainability. Research fields cover marine transportation, ship management, port logistics, and marine environmental protection — all critical sectors in Japan’s maritime-driven economy.

The school also offers the Maritime Safety and Environmental Management Program, which addresses real-world challenges such as marine pollution, sustainable shipping, and international maritime law. This program attracts international students and researchers from global shipping nations.

English-Taught Programs

Kobe University is part of Japan’s Top Global University Project, an initiative to internationalize education and promote English-taught degrees.

Some of the key English-medium programs include:

• Graduate School of Business Administration (MBA in English)

• Graduate School of International Cooperation Studies (GSICS)

• Graduate School of Maritime Sciences (Maritime Sciences Program)

• Graduate School of Law (LL.M. in Legal Studies)

GSICS, in particular, is one of the most globally recognized programs at Kobe University. It offers specializations in international development, economics, and public policy. Students from over 60 countries have graduated from GSICS, many going on to work in the United Nations, the World Bank, and international NGOs.

Research and Innovation

Kobe University is deeply involved in interdisciplinary and applied research, particularly in fields that intersect global business, maritime science, and sustainability.

The Center for Collaborative Research and Innovation (CRI) supports partnerships between academia and industry, fostering innovation in logistics, manufacturing, and environmental management.

In the maritime field, the Research Center for Inland Seas (RCIS) leads studies on oceanic ecosystems, marine energy, and climate resilience. Kobe’s researchers frequently collaborate with national institutes and companies such as NYK Line, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, and Mitsubishi Logistics.

In business research, the Kobe University Research Institute for Economics and Business Administration (RIEB) is one of Japan’s most respected economic think tanks. It publishes international journals, hosts conferences, and maintains active exchange programs with leading universities around the world.

Campus and Student Life

Kobe University’s main campus, Rokkodai Campus, sits on a hillside overlooking the city and harbor. The view of Kobe Port and Osaka Bay from campus is one of the most beautiful among Japanese universities. The Maritime Sciences campus is located near the sea in the Fukae area, equipped with state-of-the-art marine training facilities and a research vessel.

Student life at Kobe University balances academic rigor with cultural exploration. Clubs and societies range from sports and art to international exchange groups. The International Student Center offers language support, cultural events, and academic advising.

The university also provides dormitories and assistance for off-campus housing, ensuring that international students can settle in comfortably. Kobe’s cosmopolitan atmosphere — with its foreigner-friendly restaurants, international schools, and open-minded local community — makes it an ideal city for study abroad.

International Partnerships

Kobe University maintains strong academic partnerships with over 350 universities in more than 60 countries. It participates in numerous exchange and double-degree programs, particularly with institutions in Asia, Europe, and North America.

Key partner universities include:

• University of California, Berkeley (USA)

• University of Hamburg (Germany)

• University of Leeds (UK)

• National University of Singapore (NUS)

• Seoul National University (South Korea)

These partnerships allow students to engage in exchange programs, joint research, and global internships. The Kobe University Brussels European Centre acts as the European base for academic collaboration and global engagement.

Admission and Application Process

Undergraduate Admission

International students can apply through the EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students) or the Special Entrance Examination for International Students. Some faculties, such as Maritime Sciences, also offer English-based programs and interviews conducted online.

Applicants typically submit:

• Application form and personal statement

• Academic transcripts

• Proof of English or Japanese proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, JLPT)

• Letters of recommendation

Graduate Admission

For graduate programs, applicants must hold a relevant bachelor’s degree. Most English-taught programs accept applications directly to the graduate school. Required materials include:

• Research proposal

• Recommendation letters

• English proficiency score (TOEFL/IELTS)

• Statement of purpose

• Online or in-person interview

The academic year begins in April, but some English-based graduate programs start in October.

Scholarships and Financial Support

Kobe University offers various scholarship options to support international students.

• MEXT Scholarship (Monbukagakusho): Full government-funded scholarship covering tuition, monthly stipend, and travel costs.

• JASSO Honors Scholarship: For privately financed international students with strong academic performance.

• Kobe University International Student Scholarship: Partial tuition reduction for outstanding students.

• Hyogo Prefecture International Student Scholarship: Local support program for students residing in Hyogo.

In addition, many private foundations such as the Mitsubishi Corporation and Iwatani International Foundation sponsor scholarships for specific nationalities or study fields.

Living in Kobe

Kobe is one of Japan’s most international cities, known for its history as a port open to the world since the 19th century. The city offers a perfect blend of Japanese culture and global lifestyle.

Students enjoy convenient transportation, modern shopping areas, and natural escapes like Mount Rokko and Arima Onsen. Kobe’s cost of living is lower than Tokyo or Osaka, while still offering access to cultural diversity, making it a comfortable and safe environment for international students.

Famous local attractions include Kobe Harborland, Kitano Ijinkan foreign houses, and Sannomiya district — all easily accessible from campus.

Career and Alumni Network

Kobe University graduates enjoy strong career prospects, both in Japan and internationally. The university’s career support center provides guidance on job hunting, internships, and networking with companies.

Business and maritime graduates are highly valued in industries such as trading, logistics, finance, and international development. Many alumni hold leadership roles in Japanese corporations, global logistics companies, and public institutions.

Notable alumni include executives from Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Sumitomo Corporation, and the Bank of Japan, reflecting Kobe University’s legacy in economics and maritime expertise.

Conclusion

Kobe University stands at the crossroads of global business and maritime innovation. With a history rooted in commerce and an eye on sustainability, it offers international students a world-class education in one of Japan’s most livable cities.

Its blend of English-taught programs, strong research environment, and vibrant campus life makes Kobe University an excellent choice for those aiming to study business, economics, and ocean sciences in Japan.

For students seeking a university that bridges East and West, land and sea, Kobe University remains a symbol of global learning and maritime excellence.