Keio University

The Three Policies of the Faculty of Environment and Information Studies

Diploma Policy

Educational Goals

Based on the diploma policy outlined by Keio University, we aim to train global leaders who will thrive in an unpredictable era and shape the future. The Bachelor of Arts in Environment and Information Studies will be awarded to students who have fulfilled the prescribed curriculum requirements.

Competency Objectives

Objective (1): Demonstrate proactivity in identifying issues and finding subsequent solutions

Students will acquire the ability not only to identify and solve problems but also to take initiative and engage proactively

Objective (2): Acquire knowledge and skills that support problem identification and program-solving

Students will acquire fundamental knowledge and skills in language, data science, IT, and wellness to support the identification of issues and the development of solutions.

Objective (3): Acquire knowledge and skills in the areas of expertise

Students will acquire knowledge and skills in diverse fields offered by our faculty--advanced information systems, advanced design studies, advanced biosciences, environmental design, and human environment.

Objective (4): Demonstrate an interdisciplinary approach and collaborative skills

Students will acquire the ability to address issues across multiple fields of expertise and to collaborate with peers from different disciplines.

Objective (5): Demonstrate the ability to tackle challenges with action and communication skills

Students will acquire the ability to overcome challenges in problem identification and problem-solving through effective communication and action.

Curriculum Policy

Structure of Curriculum

The Faculty of Environment and Information Studies has systematically structured its curriculum to cultivate the competencies outlined in its diploma policy based on the following subjects: fundamental subjects (introductory subjects, subjects of language communication, subjects of data science, fundamentals of information technology, wellness subjects, and interdisciplinary subjects), advanced subjects, research seminars, and special subjects.

Course Formats for Curriculum

Students will complete curriculum requirements through a combination of pedagogical frameworks, such as groupwork, active learning, fieldwork, project-based learning, and internships.

Evaluation Methods of Learning Outcomes

Evaluation of learning outcomes will be based on the grading system for each course. The academic outcomes for our faculty's curriculum are evaluated in each course according to the standards stipulated by Keio University's assessment policy. In addition, the evaluation uses both quantitative and qualitative, as well as direct and indirect indicators, such as questionnaires and surveys.

How Courses Reflect the Competency Objectives

Objective (1): Proactivity

Students will articulate issues and devise solutions by working with faculty members in research seminars, where they write theses or create works for graduation. This learning process equips students with proactivity and problem-solving skills.

Objective (2): Knowledge and skills that support problem identification and problem-solving

Students will acquire the foundational knowledge needed to devise solutions and the ability to approach problems from multiple perspectives by taking the following subjects: subjects pertaining to language communication that cultivate proficiency in each language, subjects pertaining to data science that foster the ability to analyze various types of data, fundamentals of information technology that utilize computers and the internet, and wellness subjects that extend beyond physical health to support holistic self-development.

Objective (3): Knowledge and skills in the area of expertise

Students will acquire knowledge and skills in specialized fields by taking advanced subjects and special subjects such as advanced information systems, advanced design studies, advanced biosciences, environmental design, and human environment. This will enhance their expertise in the respective fields and practical skills for solving problems.

Objective (4): Interdisciplinary approach and collaborative skills

Introductory subjects, interdisciplinary subjects, and special subjects allow students to learn across specialized fields and work on challenges with peers. This will foster interdisciplinary perspectives and the ability to collaborate with peers with varied expertise and backgrounds.

Objective (5): Competencies in taking action and communication skills to tackle challenges

In research seminars, students are given ample opportunities to overcome challenges through trial and error, thereby enhancing their ability to take action. In addition, activities in Seminars allow students to present their research outcomes both within and outside the university, which will cultivate their ability to communicate effectively.

Admissions Policy

Desired Qualities in Potential Students

(1) A strong understanding of the faculty's philosophy and educational content, which focuses on identifying and solving numerous issues in the global environment and human society

(2) A passion for achieving higher levels of self-realization by building on the basic academic skills acquired through high school and other educational programs, while utilizing all resources at SFC, including its educational environment and systems

(3) Ambition to take on challenges grounded in a unique vision and ideas, with the goal of driving transformation and creating a brighter future

Student Screening Process

To attract a wide range of applicants described above, particularly, those with the potential to become leaders in shaping a global society, screenings will be conducted in the following categories: (1) Spring and Summer/Fall AO (self-recommended) screenings, (2) general entrance examination, (3) Winter AO screenings for international students, (4) admissions for international students, and (5) admissions for Japanese returnees.

(1) Spring and Summer/Fall AO Screenings

In the document screening (first screening), basic academic skills, knowledge, skills, critical and creative thinking, decision-making ability, communication skills, ambition, as well as achievements beyond academics will be evaluated. In the interview (second screening), applicants will be reviewed holistically in accordance with the "desired qualities in potential students" above.

(2) General Entrance Examination

Written exams (language, math, and information) will be administered to evaluate an applicant's basic academic skills. In addition, an essay writing examination will be administered to evaluate their comprehensive abilities, such as reading comprehension, creativity, logical reasoning, and expression.

(3) Winter AO Screenings for International Students

Admission decisions will be made based on a holistic review of each applicant, considering the "desired qualities in potential students" above and their potential to excel in a global environment upon completing the GIGA (English-based BA) program.

(4) Admissions for International Students

The first round of screening will be based on application documents. Each application will be reviewed from multiple perspectives, including the abilities, skills, and basic academic skills the applicant has acquired through their education abroad. The second round of screening will be based on an interview, where applicants will be reviewed holistically with regard to their character and aptitude as potential students at the university.

(5) Admissions for Japanese Returnees

The first round of screening will be based on application documents. Each applicant will be reviewed from multiple perspectives, including their abilities, skills, and basic academic skills acquired through their education abroad. The essay writing examination will be administered as the second round of screening to holistically review an applicant's qualifications such as creativity, logical reasoning, and expression.