Rikkyo University: Study Liberal Arts in Tokyo

Overview of Rikkyo University

Rikkyo University, also known as Saint Paul’s University, is one of Japan’s most respected private universities, located in the vibrant heart of Tokyo. Established in 1874 by an American missionary, Bishop Channing Moore Williams, Rikkyo is built on the principles of liberal arts education and global citizenship. Today, it stands as a leading institution recognized for fostering creativity, independent thinking, and intercultural understanding.

The university has two main campuses—Ikebukuro Campus in central Tokyo and Niiza Campus in Saitama Prefecture. Its urban location offers students both a peaceful academic environment and easy access to the cultural and professional opportunities of Tokyo. Rikkyo is part of the “Six Universities of Tokyo” (Tokyo Rokudai), a group of prestigious private universities known for academic excellence.

Academic Philosophy and Liberal Arts Education

Rikkyo University strongly embraces the liberal arts tradition. Rather than focusing narrowly on one specialization, Rikkyo encourages students to think broadly and develop a holistic understanding of the world. Courses are designed to sharpen students’ abilities in critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving—skills that are essential in any professional or global context.

The liberal arts philosophy allows students to explore various disciplines such as humanities, social sciences, business, and communication. Students are encouraged to connect different fields of knowledge, which helps them develop a flexible and interdisciplinary mindset. This approach reflects Rikkyo’s motto: “Learn, think, and act independently.”

English-Taught Programs at Rikkyo University

For international students, Rikkyo University offers several English-taught programs under the Global Liberal Arts Program (GLAP) and other international initiatives. These programs are designed to provide a fully English-medium education while immersing students in Japan’s academic and cultural environment.

Global Liberal Arts Program (GLAP)

GLAP is Rikkyo’s flagship English-taught undergraduate program. It allows students to study a wide range of subjects within the liberal arts framework, including international relations, business, sociology, and cultural studies. Students can also take Japanese language courses to enhance their linguistic and cultural competence.

GLAP’s small class sizes and discussion-based format create an interactive learning atmosphere. The program encourages students to study abroad at one of Rikkyo’s 250+ partner universities worldwide, ensuring a truly global perspective.

Graduate Programs in English

Rikkyo also offers graduate-level programs conducted in English in areas such as Business (Rikkyo Business School), Intercultural Communication, and International Studies. These programs attract both international students and professionals looking to advance their academic or career paths in Japan.

Faculties and Departments

Rikkyo University has 10 undergraduate colleges and 15 graduate schools, covering a wide spectrum of academic disciplines. The main faculties include:

• College of Arts

• College of Economics

• College of Business

• College of Science

• College of Sociology

• College of Law and Politics

• College of Tourism

• College of Contemporary Psychology

• College of Intercultural Communication

• Global Liberal Arts Program (GLAP)

Each college integrates liberal arts perspectives into its curriculum, encouraging students to engage in cross-disciplinary learning and global studies.

Campus Life and Student Experience

Ikebukuro Campus

The Ikebukuro Campus is Rikkyo’s main site, located just a few minutes from Ikebukuro Station—one of Tokyo’s major transportation hubs. Despite being in the city center, the campus features green spaces, historic red-brick buildings, and a serene atmosphere that contrasts with the surrounding urban energy.

Facilities include modern lecture halls, libraries, a global lounge, and the iconic St. Paul’s Chapel, symbolizing Rikkyo’s Anglican roots. The campus fosters a close-knit community where Japanese and international students interact daily through classes, clubs, and cultural activities.

Niiza Campus

Located about 30 minutes away in Saitama Prefecture, Niiza Campus is home to the College of Community and Human Services and the College of Contemporary Psychology. It provides a quieter, more spacious environment with modern facilities and sports areas.

Student Activities

Rikkyo University has more than 200 student clubs and societies, covering everything from sports and music to volunteer work and international exchange. Events such as the Rikkyo Festival (Paul’s Festival) attract thousands of visitors and showcase the creative spirit of the student body.

International Exchange and Global Network

Rikkyo has built a strong network of international partnerships with over 250 universities in 50 countries. This network supports various exchange programs, joint research projects, and overseas study opportunities. The Center for Global Human Resource Development plays a key role in promoting international education and preparing students for global careers.

The university also hosts international students from around the world, providing orientation programs, Japanese language support, and housing assistance. Its welcoming and inclusive atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for those looking to study in Japan without a language barrier.

Career Support and Opportunities

Rikkyo University’s Career Center offers comprehensive support to both domestic and international students. Services include internship placements, career counseling, and job-hunting seminars. The university’s reputation in Japan’s corporate world—especially in the liberal arts, communication, and business sectors—opens doors to employment in leading companies.

Many graduates work in global firms, NGOs, government institutions, or continue their studies at top graduate schools. The combination of liberal arts education and practical experience gives Rikkyo students a competitive advantage in the job market.

Admission Information for International Students

Rikkyo University’s English-taught programs, particularly GLAP, are designed for international applicants. Admission typically requires the following:

• Completed high school education or equivalent

• English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent scores)

• Academic transcripts

• Personal statement or essay

• Interview (online for international applicants)

Application periods vary depending on the program, but most undergraduate programs open their admissions between November and January for the next academic year starting in September.

Scholarships are also available for outstanding students. These include Rikkyo University International Student Scholarships and other external funding options from the Japanese government (MEXT) or private foundations.

Why Choose Rikkyo University?

1. Liberal Arts Excellence

Rikkyo stands out for its commitment to liberal arts education, encouraging critical thinking and independent learning across disciplines.

2. Central Tokyo Location

Its Ikebukuro Campus offers easy access to Tokyo’s dynamic culture, business districts, and entertainment, making it ideal for students seeking both education and lifestyle opportunities.

3. English-Taught Programs

Rikkyo’s Global Liberal Arts Program allows international students to study entirely in English while experiencing Japanese culture firsthand.

4. Global Opportunities

The extensive exchange partnerships and study-abroad options promote cross-cultural learning and international career pathways.

5. Inclusive Community

With strong support systems, international student networks, and diverse clubs, Rikkyo fosters an inclusive, multicultural environment.

Alumni and Achievements

Rikkyo University boasts an active alumni network of over 200,000 graduates working across the globe. Notable alumni include business leaders, politicians, academics, and artists. The university maintains strong ties with industry and academia, offering its students valuable networking opportunities.

Through its liberal arts tradition, Rikkyo continues to produce graduates who are not only skilled professionals but also thoughtful global citizens ready to contribute to society in meaningful ways.

Conclusion

Rikkyo University represents the ideal balance between tradition and modernity, East and West, and academia and society. Its liberal arts focus, international outlook, and location in Tokyo make it one of Japan’s most attractive universities for global-minded students.

Whether you’re pursuing an English-taught program or immersing yourself in Japanese studies, Rikkyo University offers a transformative educational experience that nurtures curiosity, creativity, and confidence for the future.

FAQs

What makes Rikkyo University a good choice for liberal arts study in Tokyo?

Rikkyo University blends a classic liberal arts ethos with the advantages of a central Tokyo location. Students develop broad-based knowledge, critical thinking, and communication skills while accessing internships, cultural venues, and professional networks across the city. Small, discussion-driven classes and cross-disciplinary course options help you connect ideas across humanities, social sciences, business, and communication fields.

Does Rikkyo offer English-taught degree programs?

Yes. The Global Liberal Arts Program (GLAP) is a flagship undergraduate pathway taught fully in English. Rikkyo also offers select English-medium graduate programs, especially in areas such as business, intercultural communication, and international studies. Japanese language study is available and strongly encouraged to deepen cultural understanding and expand career options in Japan.

What is distinctive about the Global Liberal Arts Program (GLAP)?

GLAP emphasizes seminar-style learning, close faculty mentorship, and curricular flexibility across multiple disciplines. You can build an individualized study plan, take rigorous writing- and discussion-based courses, and incorporate study-abroad terms through Rikkyo’s global partner network. The program aims to cultivate independent thinkers with a strong global outlook.

Where are Rikkyo’s campuses, and what are they like?

Rikkyo’s main campus is in Ikebukuro, a major Tokyo hub with easy rail access, historic red-brick architecture, and green courtyards. The Niiza Campus in nearby Saitama offers a calmer environment with modern facilities and sports areas. Both campuses provide libraries, learning support centers, and spaces dedicated to international exchange.

What are the typical admission requirements for international applicants?

At the undergraduate level, you will generally need proof of secondary school completion, a strong academic record, English proficiency scores (e.g., IELTS/TOEFL) for English-medium programs, a personal statement or essay, and, in some cases, an interview. Graduate programs typically require a relevant bachelor’s degree, transcripts, English proficiency, and program-specific materials such as research proposals or résumés.

When do applications open, and how should I plan my timeline?

Undergraduate English-medium intakes commonly begin in the fall. Application windows often open several months in advance, with materials due in stages (document screening, interviews, final decisions). Begin preparing 9–12 months ahead: gather transcripts, test scores, recommendations, and draft your statement early. Always confirm the current year’s deadlines on the official program page.

Do I need Japanese to succeed at Rikkyo?

No, you can complete English-taught degrees without advanced Japanese; however, basic to intermediate Japanese will vastly improve daily life, part-time work options (where permitted), internships, and post-graduation job prospects in Japan. Rikkyo provides Japanese language courses at multiple levels to support this growth.

What does student life look like outside the classroom?

With hundreds of clubs and circles—arts, music, sports, culture, and volunteering—student life is active and inclusive. Annual events such as the Rikkyo (Paul’s) Festival showcase creativity and student-led initiatives. International lounges and peer-support groups help new students build community quickly and navigate academic and cultural transitions.

What housing options are available for international students?

Students may access university-affiliated residences, third-party dormitories, or private apartments. First-year international students often prefer dorms for convenience and community support. If you choose private housing, plan extra time for paperwork, guarantor services, and move-in costs (deposit, key money, agency fees), which are common in the Tokyo area.

How does Rikkyo support careers and internships?

Rikkyo’s Career Center offers counseling, résumé guidance, interview practice, employer info sessions, and internship listings. Tokyo’s concentration of multinational companies, startups, NGOs, and creative industries enables diverse experiential learning. For students aiming to work in Japan, the center also provides guidance on local job-hunting customs and timelines.

Are scholarships available for international students?

Yes. Rikkyo and external providers offer competitive scholarships that may consider academic merit, financial need, or program alignment. Some awards help offset tuition; others provide stipends. Check eligibility criteria, application forms, and deadlines early—scholarships often require separate documents and may have earlier cutoffs than general admission.

What is the approximate cost of study and living in Tokyo?

Tuition varies by program and level. Living costs include housing, utilities, food, transit, phone/data, insurance, and books. Budget-minded students reduce expenses by choosing dorms, cooking at home, using student rail passes, and taking advantage of campus resources. Build a conservative monthly budget and keep a contingency fund for move-in or visa-related costs.

Can I study abroad while enrolled at Rikkyo?

Yes. Rikkyo maintains partnerships with universities worldwide, enabling semester- or year-length exchanges and short-term programs. Many English-taught students spend time abroad to deepen regional expertise, learn another language, or pursue specialized coursework that complements their Rikkyo degree.

Is it possible to transfer credits to Rikkyo?

Credit transfer is evaluated case by case and depends on course equivalencies, accreditation of the previous institution, and program rules. Provide detailed syllabi and transcripts for review. Even when transfers are approved, programs may cap the total number of transferrable credits to preserve curricular integrity.

What kind of academic support is available?

Students can access writing and learning centers, office hours, academic advising, and language support. Many courses include scaffolded assignments, feedback cycles, and presentation practice to build confidence. If you anticipate specific learning needs, contact the university early to discuss available accommodations.

How competitive is admission?

Selectivity varies by program, but strong academics, a thoughtful personal statement, and evidence of curiosity and initiative are essential. For seminar-based liberal arts programs, admissions committees value clear motivation, intellectual breadth, and the ability to contribute to discussion-driven classes.

What documents should I prepare before applying?

Prepare official transcripts, standardized test scores where required, proof of English proficiency for English-medium tracks, a passport copy, recommendation letters, and a personal statement or essays. Keep digital and certified paper copies. Ensure names and dates are consistent across all documents to avoid processing delays.

How do international students adjust to life in Tokyo?

Orientation programs, peer mentors, and international offices help with banking, phones, healthcare enrollment, and transit cards. Joining clubs, taking Japanese classes, and exploring neighborhoods around Ikebukuro or Niiza accelerates adjustment. Most students gain confidence within the first term as routines and social networks form.

What are my options after graduation?

Graduates pursue roles in business, media and communications, non-profits, public service, education, and graduate study. Those targeting Japan-based careers typically combine English-medium coursework with Japanese study, internships, and participation in campus recruiting seasons. Alumni networks and faculty connections are valuable assets for next steps.

Where can I find the latest, official information?

Always verify current admissions policies, deadlines, scholarship offerings, tuition, and course lists on Rikkyo University’s official website and the specific program pages. If questions remain, contact admissions or the international office directly—they can clarify eligibility, documentation, and timelines for your situation.

Japan University Guide: Study in Japan for International Students