Graduate School of Engineering Science

Dr. Osamu Umezawa, Dean

Yokohama National University’s fundamental principles are “Be Active,” “Be Innovative,” “Be Open,” and “Be Global”. With prioritization (reorganization) of graduate schools on April 1, 2001, educational research organization was changed from a college based structure to a structure with focus on graduate school, and the Graduate School of Engineering responsible for the fundamental science and engineering education of manufacturing was established. In Graduate School of Engineering, various educational reforms were carried out to realize these ideals. In 2007, we set up a PED (Pi-type Engineering Degree) program focusing on studio education in the first and second term of the doctoral course with an aim to train practical engineers and researchers who can deal with field-integrated science and technology with broad perspective. In addition, we also responded to internationalization (globalization). The year 2015 was truly a milestone; since then, all lectures at the graduate school have been conducted in English, and we newly introduced an international internship in the curriculum. We are also in the process of establishing double degree programs awarding multiple master's and doctorate degrees by advancing thesis research in collaboration with the graduate schools at overseas universities.

On April 1, 2018, the Graduate School of Engineering was dissolved, and the new Graduate School of Engineering Science was established. The aim is to contribute to the further development of fundamental science technology for manufacturing to be inherited, and to develop human resources who will take core and leadership roles in the future. The international excellence of the Japanese manufacturing industry has largely relied on the superiority of quality and quantity in the production field, but now this conventional industrial structure requires further strengthening and development of industrial competence, especially through innovation. Specifically, in addition to the engineering that has supported the industrial development so far, we need a technical approach to new science and engineering based on emerging sciences in the fields related to advanced technologies such as information and communication technology, biotechnology, nanotechnology, green technology, etc. where industry development is remarkable. Additionally, there are many state-of-the-art public research institutes and private enterprises etc. in Yokohama and Kanagawa where our university is located. It is also expected from our university to train human resources who are responsible for creating innovation required by these industries.

By establishing the Graduate School of Engineering Science, it has become possible for us to give a science degree in the fields of chemistry, physics and mathematics in addition to engineering. The subjects provided by the Graduate School of Engineering Science are categorized horizontally into four groups (information group subjects, science group subjects, engineering group subjects, and profession group subjects) and vertically into three groups (Core subjects, Major subjects, and Specialized subjects). This format makes it easier for students to organize their studies. Information group subjects are compulsory for all students. Engineering students can study science group subjects, and science students can study engineering group subjects. This will cultivate human resources who can think with a broad and flexible mindset.

At present, there are approximately 750 students of the initial term of the doctoral program and approximately 130 students of the final term of the doctoral program under 170 full-time faculty members. Approximately 15,000 people have graduated since the Faculty of Engineering established in 1963, and they are active all around the world. We sincerely hope that all students following the footsteps of seniors will work hard on their studies under the idea of traditional "Meikyo Shizen" along with colleagues gathered from all over the world at our lush green Tokiwadai campus and grow as a human resource to become talented leaders of the society.

Dr. Osamu Umezawa, Dean, Graduate School of Engineering Science