
Hokkaido University
About Hokkaido University
- Sustainability & Global Impact
Ranked #1 in Japan (and 44th globally) in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2025 for contributions to UN Sustainable Development Goals.
- Frontier Spirit" & History
Founded in 1876 as Sapporo Agricultural College, the university maintains a unique, pioneering educational philosophy ("Be Ambitious") and a comprehensive range of academic fields.
- Prime Campus Location
The campus is in the heart of Sapporo, yet features vast natural surroundings, including experimental forests, offering a unique blend of urban life and nature.
- Distinct Academic Focus
Strong in material sciences, earth/ocean sciences, and chemistry.
- Internationalization
Strong emphasis on international students (from over 85 countries) and English-medium programs, including an accelerated 5-year master’s program.



University Unique Selling Points
Sustainability & Global Impact
Ranked #1 in Japan (and 44th globally) in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2025 for contributions to UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Frontier Spirit" & History
Founded in 1876 as Sapporo Agricultural College, the university maintains a unique, pioneering educational philosophy ("Be Ambitious") and a comprehensive range of academic fields.
Prime Campus Location
The campus is in the heart of Sapporo, yet features vast natural surroundings, including experimental forests, offering a unique blend of urban life and nature.
Distinct Academic Focus
Strong in material sciences, earth/ocean sciences, and chemistry.
Internationalization
Strong emphasis on international students (from over 85 countries) and English-medium programs, including an accelerated 5-year master’s program.
University Rankings
QS World Rankings
170
World Times Ranking
351-400
National Guardian Ranking
No data available
US World News Report
434
University Achievements
No achievements available
Notable Alumni

Hiroshi Ishii
Japanese computer scientist and professor

Gaku Hasegawa
Member of the House of Councillors of Japan

Ida Elina
Finnish musician

Keisuke Iwaya
Photographer
Career Opportunities
Employment Rate
250%
Average Starting Salary
¥250,000 / Year
Top Hiring Sectors
Engineering / AI / Data science
Major Employers
Toyota Motor Corporation, Mitsubishi Electric, Mitsubishi Electric
Internship Access
Internships provide practical R&D experience, focusing on connecting basic science to societal applications.
Work Visa Options
Allows for a 5-year stay, often reachable with moderate Japanese proficiency (N3).
Scholarships
No scholarships available
