Students aim to both broaden and deepen their knowledge when choosing a major in their second year.
The Three Pillars of the Curriculum
The curriculum of the Faculty of Letters is divided into General Education Courses, Required Foreign Language Courses, and Specialized Education Courses, each consisting of a diverse range of subjects. Each subject follows a semester system.
Liberal Arts Education in the True Sense
General Education Courses are categorized into Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, and Interdisciplinary subjects. Students are required to take courses from all areas. We believe that studying disciplines with different research objects and methodologies—humanities, social, and natural sciences—serves as the foundation for a true liberal arts education before moving on to specialized subjects.
A Rich Variety of 13 Languages
In addition to English, German, French, Chinese, Korean, Russian, Spanish, and Italian, classes in Greek, Latin, Arabic, Persian, and Turkish are also available. English classes are divided by proficiency level based on a placement test.
At the Faculty of Letters, students are admitted as members of a single department, spend their first year gaining an understanding of the breadth of academic disciplines at Keio University, and, from their second year onward, join a major in which they deepen their studies. Within this framework, they have the freedom to discover their own interests and pursue them as far as they wish. Here, we present an overview of the four-year academic journey.
First Year
Broadening horizons through exposure to a variety of disciplines and considering which major to pursue
Hiyoshi Campus
Students’ first year at Hiyoshi Campus provides them with an opportunity to broaden their horizons through exposure to a wide range of disciplines, while also serving as a preparatory period for selecting a major. Through general education courses spanning the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, as well as required language courses, students cultivate both foundational knowledge and an integrated perspective. In addition, distinctive courses known as special topics and general education seminars are offered. Full-time faculty members conduct small-group classes in their respective fields, supporting students as they consider which major to pursue.
Second Year
Deciding on a major and beginning studies in a specialized field
Mita Campus
From their second year onward, students join their respective majors and study at Mita Campus. They deepen their expertise by combining courses from a wide range of major field offerings, including reading original texts and primary sources, which forms the foundation of their specialized studies. In addition to courses offered within each major, students may also take common courses, center-administered common courses, and courses offered by other faculties. Some students pursue professional qualifications as well.
Third Year
Joining a research seminar to identify a specific topic and pursue it in greater depth
Mita Campus
Although specific structures vary by major, students take a diverse range of courses—including lectures, seminars, practical training, and fieldwork—to cultivate the ability to conduct independent inquiry and communicate their ideas. While the starting period differs among majors, most students join small-group research seminars and advance their research based on clearly defined themes.
Fourth Year
Preparing for the graduation thesis and final examinations as the culmination of undergraduate studies
Mita Campus
Students complete a graduation thesis based on their individual academic interests by integrating the knowledge and skills they have developed and deepening their inquiry within seminars. Through this process, they gain an international perspective, acquire methodologies applicable to professional practice, and refine their ability to communicate their ideas to society through discussion and presentation. The Sociology and Human Sciences departments also offer a non-thesis track.