S H I M A N E
UNIVERSITYPROSPECTUS
2 0 2 32 0 2 4

Message from the President

Welcome to

Shimane University!
Shimane University was established as a national
university in 1949 and is celebrating its 74th anniversary this year. Shimane University has continued
to expand and currently consists of seven faculties
across two campuses. Matsue Campus is home toundergraduate studies including the Faculty of Law
and Literature, the Faculty of Education, the Facultyof Human Sciences, the Interdisciplinary Faculty of
Science and Engineering, and the Faculty of Lifeand Environmental Science; in April 2023, Shimane
University welcomed the new addition of the Facultyof Materials for Energy. Graduate courses include
the Graduate School of Human and Social Sciences,
the Graduate School of Education and the Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology.
Izumo Campus comprises the Faculty of Medicine
and Graduate School of Medical Research.
With the progress of digital transformation (DX) insociety and consideration for sustainable societal
construction, Shimane University’s goal is to enable
students to develop international perspectives andtheir ability to become leaders in each region of theworld. While studying here, students are equipped with the ability to cope with diverse problems likethose they encounter in modern society. They are also empowered to take advantage of their accumulated knowledge, their cross-cultural awareness, and their technological skills. Furthermore, I
believe that an important mission of Shimane University is to contribute to international society
through creative research conducted using international standards.
Currently, we have more than 200 international students from various countries, and they are
working hard to master their specialized fields. Studying alongside Japanese friends and other international students, these students also learn Japanese traditions and culture. Living in Shimane,
students may come to feel a connection with the wonderful nature, history, and culture of Japan. As
such, they can devote themselves to studying and learning at Shimane University in a peaceful environment with rich and abundant nature.
I, along with all the staff members and students, sincerely hope that you will choose to come to
Shimane University and enjoy your university life here.
HATTORI Yasunao

President of Shimane University

01

SHIMANE UNIVERSIT Y PROSPECTUS 2023 -2024

Contents

G
O
A
L
S

Features of Shimane 3Access Map 

4International Exchanges 

5Organization 

6

Cutting-Edge Education & Research 

7Campus Life & Student Support 

11

Faculty of Law and Literature 

15

Faculty of Education 

17

Faculty of Human Sciences 

19Faculty of Medicine 

21Interdisciplinary Faculty of Science and Engineering 

23

Faculty of Materials for Energy 

25

Faculty of Life and Environmental Science 

27

Graduate Schools 

29International Student's Voice 

32

Support for Doctoral Students 

33Admission Information 

34

GenuinenessTo foster students with initiative who possess a highdegree of expertise and human compassion.

Openness
To promote a high international standard of researchbased on unique, local issues.

Applicability
To promote social service programs that can solve
local problems.

Shimane University Principles for SDGs
Shimane University states in its university charter that it will
“strive to develop a prosperous society that coexists withnature.” Based on activities such as persistent education,
research and medical care, we are working toward theachievement of SDGs through fostering people who contributeto the promotion of regional revitalization, development of apeaceful international society, and realization of an inclusive
society. By doing so, Shimane University will contribute to thecreation of a sustainable society.
In particular, Shimane University takes advantage of thegeographical characteristics of the region. In order to conserveand succeed the environment to future generations, we work
closely with the local community, and at the same time, strive
for education that raises students’ awareness of SDGs.
HATTORI Yasunao, President of Shimane University
November 14th, 2019

Linkage
To promote international exchanges with Asian andother foreign countries.

Sustainability
To respect academic freedom and human rights andpromote public trust in the university.

SHIMANE UNIVERSIT Y PROSPECTUS 2023 -2024

02

Features of Shimane

Shimane University is located in Shimane Prefecture, an area

the last two of which are designated as national treasures.

of Japan well-endowed with nature, including Lake Shinji,

Shimane University is an ideal place to study as students can

UNESCO Global Geopark, the Oki Islands, and Mount Sanbe.

fully experience the abundant nature and be immersed in an

In addition, the prefecture has many historical and culturalenvironment where they are able to study the traditions ofassets, including Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine, which is a World

Japan.

Heritage Site, Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine, and Matsue Castle,

Production and Innovation

03

Shimane Prefecture is the only prefecture in Japan that still

place of the creator of the computer language Ruby, the IT

produces a special type of iron that is used as raw material forindustry is becoming more concentrated, and businessJapanese swords. Utilizing the foundations of this traditional

exchanges with overseas IT companies are being actively

ironmaking technology, Shimane Prefecture has become a

executed. Shimane University is decidedly engaged insignificant production hub for unique steel used in industries

research and human resource development in collaborationsuch as aerospace. Furthermore, as Matsue City is the birth-with such local industries.

SHIMANE UNIVERSIT Y PROSPECTUS 2023 -2024

Access to Shimane University

SHIMANE
University(Matsue)

Izumo
AirportIzumo Campus

Izumo
SHIMANE
University

YonagoAirportMatsueYonagoYasugi(Izumo)Izumo
AirportSHIMANE

YonagoAirportTokyo

Hiroshima
Osaka
Itami Airport

Fukuoka
AirportHaneda Airport

Transportation

Matsue Campus

Matsue Campus
AIRPLANETokyo (Haneda)
Fukuoka
Osaka (Itami)
Tokyo (Haneda)→ Izumo→ Izumo→ Izumo→ Yonago

Izumo Campus
1h 25m
1h 5m
55m
1h 20mShuttle Bus from Airport to Matsue Station
30m
Izumo Airport→ JR Matsue Station
Yonago Airport → JR Matsue Station
45m

TRAIN

Tokyo - Okayama - Matsue
Fukuoka - Okayama - Matsue
Osaka - Okayama - Matsue

6h 10m
4h 30m3h 40mTransportation from JR Matsue Station to Matsue Campus
By local bus → Matsue Campus
15-20mBy taxi
10m→ Matsue Campus

AIRPLANETokyo (Haneda)
Fukuoka
Osaka (Itami)→ Izumo→ Izumo→ Izumo

1h 25m
1h 5m
55m

Shuttle Bus from Airport to Izumoshi Station
Izumo Airport → JR Izumoshi Station
25m

TRAIN

Tokyo - Okayama - Izumoshi
Fukuoka - Okayama - Izumoshi
Osaka - Okayama - Izumoshi

6h 40m5h
4h 10mTransportation from JR Izumoshi Station to Izumo campus
By local bus → Izumo Campus
10m
By taxi
10m→ Izumo Campus

SHIMANE UNIVERSIT Y PROSPECTUS 2023 -202404

International Exchanges

The latest list of our international
partnerships can be found athttps://kokusai.shimane-u.ac.jp/
english/about/agreement.html

International Partnerships (Countries and Regions)
As of May 1, 2023

EuropeKAZAKHSTAN POLAND 
SWEDEN 
SWITZERLAND 

2
1
1
1
1

FRANCE 
GERMANY 
ICELAND 
IRELAND 
ITALY CANADA 
U.S.A. 

1
8

Asia

Middle East
TURKEY 

North America

1
2
2
1

BANGLADESH  2
26
CHINA 6
INDIA 4
INDONESIA 
12
KOREA 2
MONGOLIA 

1

1
2
6
11
3

NEPAL SRI LANKA TAIWAN 
THAILAND 
VIETNAM 

AfricaETHIOPIA 

1South America

Oceania

BRAZIL 

NEW ZEALAND  1

1

Number of Enrolled International Students
Country/RegionU
AfghanistanAzerbaijan
Bangladesh
Benin
China
FranceGermany
India
Indonesia
Korea
Laos
MalawiMalaysia
Mongolia
Myanmar
Nepal
Nigeria
Oman
PolandRussiaTaiwanThailandTurkeyUK
USA
Viet Nam
Total

Education

Law and Literature

N

G

N

Medicine

Human Sciences

U

N

G

G

Interdisciplinary
Faculty of
Science&EngineeringU

N

Materials forEnergyU

Life andEnvironmental
Science

U

N

20
7

18
1
1

1

3

3
1

15

11

1
5
3

2

2

1
1

10

Interdisciplinary
Graduate School
Graduateof Natural
School of
Science andScienceTechnology&Engineering
N
G
G
6
1
14

14

12

1

3
1

1
4
1

UnitedGraduate
School of
Agricultural
Sciences
Tottori U.
G
1
6
1
4

1
1

4

1
1
1

2
4

1

18
1

1

1

2

3
1
1

1
2

1

2
1

1

1

1

2

1

1
1

1
3
12

31
44

1
1

1
12
12

1

2
8
24

15

44
44

35

1
36

1
1

19

1
20

1
45

1
46

1
1

16
16

Total

7
1
40
1
99
2
1
5
8
13
1
1
26
5
5
3
3
1
4
1
3
4
1
1
4
4
244

As of May 1, 2023
* U ---- Undergraduate, N ---- Non degree-seeking Student, G --- Graduate

05

SHIMANE UNIVERSIT Y PROSPECTUS 2023 -2024

Organization
Undergraduate Schools
Faculty of Law and Literature
Department of Law and Economics
Department of Socio-Cultural Studies
Department of Language and Culture

Faculty of Education
School Teacher Training Course
Attached Kindergarten
Attached Compulsory Education School

Faculty of Human Sciences
Department of Human Sciences

Faculty of Medicine
School of Medicine
School of Nursing
University HospitalInterdisciplinary Faculty of Science and Engineering
Department of Applied Physics
Department of Chemistry
Department of Earth Science
Department of Mathematical Sciences
Department of Information Systems Design and Data Science
Department of Mechanical, Electrical and Electronic
Engineering
Department of Architectural Design

Faculty of Materials for Energy
Department of Materials for Energy

Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences

Attached Facilities and Institutions
Head Office for Education and Student Support
Higher Education Center
Center for Tourism Education
Student Support Center
Student Accessibility Office
Head Office for Research and Academic Information
Center for the Promotion of Project Research
Estuary Research Center
Interdisciplinary Center for Science Research
General Information Processing Center
Center for Community-Based Healthcare Research and
Education
Shimane University Museum ASHIKARU
Center for Natural Disaster Reduction Research and Education
Education and Research Center for Mathematical and Data
Science
Center for Vaccines and Therapeutic Antibodies for Emerging
Infectious Diseases
Head Office for Promotion of Globalization
International Center
Center for Foreign Language Education
International Joint Research Institute of Shimane University andNingxia University
Head Office for Regional Collaboration and Innovation
Head Office for Open Innovation Promotion
Next Generation Tatara Co-Creation Centre
University Library
Main Library in Matsue
Medical Library in Izumo
Diversity Promotion Office
Harassment Prevention Office
Praxis Center for Clinical Psychology
Health Service Center (Matsue, Izumo)

Department of Life Sciences
Department of Agricultural and Forest Sciences
Department of Environmental and Sustainability Science

Undergraduate

Graduate Schools
Graduate School of Human and Social Sciences
Division of Social Development and Innovation
Division of Clinical Psychology
Graduate School of Education
Department of Professional School for Teacher Education
Graduate School of Medical Research
Department of Medical Science
Department of Nursing
Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology
Major in Science and Engineering
Major in Science of Environmental Systems
Major in Agricultural and Life Sciences
Major in Science and Engineering for Innovation

71
5,255
107
616

Number of International Students

Total Number ofStudents

Graduate

Number of International Students

Total Number of Students

Number of international students excludes non degree-seeking students and students from theUnited Graduate School of Agricultural Sciences, Tottori University
As of May 1, 2023

SHIMANE UNIVERSIT Y PROSPECTUS 2023 -2024

06

Cutting-Edge Education & Research
Faculty of Materials for Energy
Shimane University established the Faculty of Materials
for Energy in April 2023 to foster and revitalize industries in Shimane Prefecture, particularly in the field ofmaterials, which Shimane Prefecture is known for being
strong in. The Next Generation Tatara Co-creation
Centre (NEXTA), which is ahead of its predecessors, ispromoting world-class research in the field of metallic
materials. In collaboration with NEXTA, the Faculty is
working to develop highly specialized human resources.
Furthermore, compared to other university’s materials-related Faculties, the Shimane University Facultyprovides a unique education that integrates materials,
chemistry, and information by employing a large
number of faculty members to teach chemistry andinformation.
In order to develop a global mindset, students takeclasses offered by faculty members at NEXTA as well
as overseas partner universities such as the Universityof Oxford (U.K.), where Director of the NEXTA Professor
Roger Reed is affiliated. For details, please see p. 25.

Materials● Advanced Metallic

Materials

Energy Transformation
through the Power ofMaterials● Nano & Functional

Materials● Biomaterials

Computing● Programming● Information

Security

Energy Strategy● Machine Learning● AI

Next Generation Tatara Co-Creation Centre: NEXTAThe organization of the Next Generation Tatara Co-Creation Centre; NEXTA was named after “Tatara steel
manufacturing” which has been inherited in Shimane
prefecture since ancient times has been established in2019 at Shimane University.
Professor Roger Reed of the University of Oxford
was invited to act as a director, and the research anddevelopment are being strongly proceeding such as
establishing manufacturing technologies/ processing
technics of large-sized forging parts using super-heatresistance alloys, as well as the research to establish
processing or designing technologies striving to establish a base for the mass production of high-efficiency
motor cores using amorphous metals. The companies
including SMEs in Shimane prefecture and Shimane

07

SHIMANE UNIVERSIT Y PROSPECTUS 2023 -2024

University are working together by developing knowledge synergistically of each other and proceeding withthe research and development to contribute to theindustrial promotion and creation of employment.
Research system at NEXTA
The researchers who possess high technical capabilities and research skills in Materials engineering areproceeding with the research by connecting mutually
their areas of expertise. One of the most important features of NEXTA which is specialized in metal materials
research is that covering various areas of expertisesuch as microscopic structural analysis, mechanicalproperty evaluation or processing, in centring theoretical approach using Physics based-simulation technol-

ogy in one research institute which is pretty rare.
Excellent researcher“An important first step for the key of metal materials in
the next generation”
A research paper written by Professor ARAKAWA
Kazuto, Vice Director of NEXTA, was published in
Nature Materials in January 2020. The journal is one of
the most influential publications in the materials field,
and the news was reported by the national and international media. In his research, Professor ARAKAWA
observed for the first time in the world that defects in a
metal at low temperatures behave in a mysterious
manner called “quantum diffusion”, by using atrans-mission electron microscopy that can examine
samples at the atomic level. These results can open a
new window to improve steel materials with low
temperatures, and is expected to be useful for thedevelopment of materials that produce a large numberof defects, such as materials for fusion reactors, which
will be a future energy source.

observation while conducting a tensile test or fatigue
test with the test piece that heated with high temperature by electricity in order to observe heat-resistantalloys which can be used as the material for jet engine
parts are one of them.
How to participate in the research at NEXTA
The students who studied at the Faculty of Materials
for Energy and a certain part of the Interdisciplinary
Faculty of Science and Engineering can participate in
the research at NEXTA by selecting the research theme
related to the metal material field and entering the laboratories of the professors who belong to NEXTA when
they are in the second half of the 3rd year. The students
will be able to be involved in joint research with companies and other universities. In addition, the selectedstudents will be sent to the University of Oxford and will
be able to have some opportunities for research collaboration activities with the researchers at the Universityof Oxford.

Cutting-edge equipment that support worldleading research
In order to realize world-leading research, various kindsof equipment that are specialized and very unique havebeen implemented at NEXTA. The workstation conducts
an enormous amount of calculations and simulations
based on Physics and Mathematical Science, thestate-of-the-art transmission electron microscope
which is to observe the deformation process of amorphous foil to be materials for the high-efficiency
amorphous motor core, and also the Electro-Thermal
Mechanical Testing (ETMT) which can perform in-situ

SHIMANE UNIVERSIT Y PROSPECTUS 2023 -2024

08

Health Care Products Using Food Biomass
There are many rich resources
around us that are not utilized.
Our research aims to discover
the functionality of unutilized resources and maximize themthrough processing technology.
One current area of researchis tea. The tea manufacturing
process includes steaming, dryDr. TSURUNAGA Yoko
Professor, Faculty of Humaning, fermenting, and roasting.
Science
We are investigating the effectsof these processes on the content of functional components and clarifying the optimal processing method
for each resource. We have already published various
papers in both national and international journals, discussing persimmon leaf tea, bayberry leaf tea, dokudami tea, and basil tea.
A second area of research is high-performance compounded paper. We have discovered unused resources with high deodorizing and antibacterial properties
and are developing functional paper that is blended
with these resources. Furthermore, we have clarified
that the use of chestnut astringent peel in compounded
paper creates very strong antioxidant, deodorizing,

and antibacterial properties.
Currently, we are paying particular attention to tannin, a component that is abundant in unutilized resources. Tannins are known to bind strongly to proteins.
Our goal is to utilize their binding properties for the development of foods for people who have difficulty swallowing. We are also working to develop products withantiviral, deodorizing, and antibacterial properties.
As these brief examples demonstrate, a wide rangeof research is being conducted into not only processing foods but also utilizing resources in various fields.

Research with newly developed Bioactive/Biodegradable biomaterials:
The world of medicine and dentistry is constantly evolving. We
have come a long way from using conventional methods ofbone fixation such as titanium to
now introducing synthetic, biomimetic compounds. These materials have superior qualities, as
in host tissue interaction and
Dr. KANNO Takahiro
Professor & Director.
bringing forth faster bone regenDepartment of Oral andMaxillofacial Surgery,eration.
Faculty of Medicine
Our department researches
biomimetic materials to establish their definitive properties and to analyse their utility
for neo bone formation with regard to maxillofacialbones. Through pertinent planning, we have demarcated biomimetic compounds into 4 generations of bioactive/biodegradable materials, currently available foruse in human patients. We have validated usefulness ofmany of these materials through numerous in-vitro andin-vivo studies. Yet, minor disadvantages exist and thesearch for a more ideal material continues.
Recently, our collaborative efforts have aided theformation of a novel electro spun fibre material. This

09

SHIMANE UNIVERSIT Y PROSPECTUS 2023 -2024

newly developed biomaterial has been approved forclinical use, both at Japan and certain foreign countries. We are studying host tissue interaction of the material against another time-tested scaffold (both in-vivo
and clinical) and the preliminary analysis showed promising results. We hope to publish the relevant data forsurgeons worldwide. Future directive is to incorporatestem cells with the biomimetic scaffold and formulate atherapeutic strategy soon.

Soil Function and Its Wise Use

Dr. MASUNAGA
Tsuguyuki
Professor, Faculty of Life andEnvironmental Sciences

In my laboratory, we conduct
basic and applied research on
soil improvement techniques forenhancing agricultural productivity and environmental restoration, as well as wastewater
treatment technology based on
soil and field survey in domestic
and international fields. The general research themes are:measures, it is not enough to have knowledge and experience in a specific field alone. To broaden the scopeof knowledge and experience, in my laboratory, we aim
to develop the ability to observe and analyze phenomena that occur in the field and in daily life from a comprehensive perspective, not only in soil science andagriculture, but also in ecology, environmental engineering, plant nutrition, and other fields by sharing
knowledge gained by each member, rather than having
students learn unilaterally.

1. Research on fertilization management and land use
methods for sustainable agricultural production.
2. Basic research and development - dissemination ofwastewater treatment technology utilizing soil substance adsorption and decomposition functions.
My laboratory accepts many international students,
and currently has students from Nigeria, Indonesia, andAfghanistan. We also collaborate with graduated international students to advance a wide range of researchabroad. In addition, we actively conduct joint researchwith private companies and overseas research institutes.
To investigate various domestic and international
field environments, extract issues, and study counter-

Estuary Research Center (EsReC )The Estuary Research Center (EsReC) is the only
research center in Japan dedicated to the study of
estuaries and brackish waters, promoting basic andapplied science on estuaries and coasts, including theirwatersheds, for sustainable estuaries. Founded in 1992
as the Research Center for Coastal Lagoon Environments (ReCCLE), EsReC was renamed in 2017 to clarify
the research center's goal of solving estuarine environmental and ecological problems.
There are three divisions: Environmental Change
Division, which studies paleoenvironmental changes
and their causes over the past 10,000 years; Environmental Fluid Dynamics Division, which focuses onhydrodynamics in various water bodies to understandthe water environment from not only physical aspects
but also biological and chemical aspects; and Aquatic
Ecosystem Division, which mainly targets a variety ofissues in basic and applied ecology, such as life history
traits and population/assemblage dynamics of aquaticorganisms.

https://www.esrec.shimane-u.ac.jp/eng/

SHIMANE UNIVERSIT Y PROSPECTUS 2023 -202410

Campus Life & Student Support

Spring Entrance Ceremony

Academic
Calendar

4

5

6

7

8

9

APRIL

MAY

JUNE

JULY

AUGUSTSEPTEMBER

Summer Vacation

Intensive Seminars

First Semester
beginsFinal Exams

Spring Entrance
Ceremony,
Orientation

Summer Vacation
ends
First Semester ends
Field Trip forInternational
Students

Tutor System for International Students
International students are able to receive support from tutors through the university’s tutor system. One tutor is
assigned to each international student for the first six months of the student’s studies after enrolling in the university
or after coming to Japan. Tutors help with various matters such as necessary procedures at the university and at
public institutions. Tutors are Japanese students currently enrolled at Shimane University and aid international
students in a number of ways: talk on a regular basis, help with studies, research and daily life, and offer support toimprove Japanese language skills. Professors and staff at the International Center and International Division assist
tutors in carrying out their activities. Through help from tutors, international students are able to hit the groundrunning with a well-prepared student life in Japan.

Japanese Language and Japanese
Culture Studies
Shimane University offers elementary, intermediate andadvanced level Japanese language courses and Japanese
Culture Studies courses for international students. Elementary courses require a proficiency level of JLPT N5 or higher.
The content of the Japanese classes are as follows: composition, reading, listening, speaking, vocabulary and grammar.
These classes are officially recognized and provide academic
credits upon completion. Furthermore, there are a variety of
non-accredited courses available to all international students.

11

SHIMANE UNIVERSIT Y PROSPECTUS 2023 -2024

University Festival

Graduation Ceremony

10

11

12

1

2

3

OCTOBERNOVEMBER

DECEMBERJANUARYFEBRUARY

MARCH

Second Semester
beginsShimane University
International Party

Winter Vacation
ends

Autumn Entrance
Ceremony,
Orientation

Winter Vacation

Classes resume

Final Exams
Ski Trip forInternational
Students
Spring Vacation

University Festival

Graduation
Ceremony
Second Semester
ends
Spring Vacation
ends

Exchange Events and Club Activities
International students can enrich their study abroad experience in Japan by taking
part in field trips sponsored by Shimane University. Students have the chance tovisit places that enable them to experience cultural traditions, the beauty of natureand historical heritages, including a historically distinct countryside town in Shimane
Prefecture where students can experience traditional Japanese life. All students
can also enjoy the annual International Party to share their culture with not only
other international students but also many Japanese students and staff.
Furthermore, Shimane University has various athletic, culture and hobby-related
teams and clubs that welcome international students. There are approximately one
hundred clubs on Matsue Campus, and fifty clubs on Izumo Campus that conduct
activities on and off campus. These activities provide the opportunity for students
to enhance their bodies and minds, to make friends, and to respect each other inways that would be impossible inside the classroom. As such, these activities are
believed to play an important role in students’ lives.

SHIMANE UNIVERSIT Y PROSPECTUS 2023 -2024

12

Daily Life of International Students
My horizons are broader ina way that I would havenever been able toconceive before.

Sayed Ahmad Faris Bin Sayed Alfeizal

My favorite

Hiking Mt. Daisen

From

Malaysia

Housing

Student DormitoryClub

ISF (International Student's Friends)

Part-time job

Hotel Cleaning / English Teacher
Weekly Schedule

Monthly Living Expenses
IncomeMon

Allowance 

60,000 yen
0 yen

Part-time job 

50,000 yen
110,000 yen

Rent 
25,000 yen
Utilities 
20,000 yen
Food expenses  40,000 yen
Miscellaneous  20,000 yen
Total 105,000 yen

TueClass2

LClass3

L

L

Class4

L

L

Class5

L

L

L

Jiangsu Province, China

Housing

Living AloneClub

CSA (Chinese Student and Scholar

Part-time job

Restaurant (twice a week)

Total 75,000 yen

P

L

P

P

L
P
Club activity

In order to promote international
exchanges at Shimane University, I
participate as an instructor in
Chinese language classes for local
children. I experience a fascination
with language with the children who
attend the classes.

Mon
Expenses

25,000 yen

PWeekly Schedule

Monthly Living Expenses

Part-time job 

P

L

P

Association of Shimane University)

0 yen

Sun

Connect in Language

From

Scholarship 

SatPPart-time job(4th year, Faculty of Law and literature)

50,000 yen

FriL

My favorite

Zhang Shuyue

Allowance 

ThuAfter School
LectureIncomeWed

LClass1

Expenses

Scholarship 

Total I am expanding the circle ofexchange through languages at theuniversity and in the community.

During my initial month in Japan, I received agracious invitation from senior acquaintances topartake in a mountain hike up Mt. Daisen. Amidst awhirlwind of thoughts and emotions at that time, thisexperience profoundly confronted me with thefragility of life, becoming a pivotal moment of
personal transformation. Since that enlightening
encounter, I have continuously embarked uponarduous physical and mental challenges, pushing theboundaries of my capabilities to their utmost limits.

(2nd year, Interdisciplinary Faculty of Science and Engineering)

Rent (Share house)  10,000 yen
Utilities 
8,000 yen
Food expenses  25,000 yen
Miscellaneous  30,000 yen
Total 73,000 yen

Class1

LClass2

LClass3

LClass4

L

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

L

L

P

L

L

P

P

P

C

P

P

C

L
L
L

Class5After School
LecturePart-time job

Club activity

Cafeteria
The cafeterias at Matsue Campus and Izumo Campus
offer standard menus and seasonal menus, which are
popular among the students. In addition to Japanesecuisine, international dishes are available as well.

13

SHIMANE UNIVERSIT Y PROSPECTUS 2023 -2024

Furthermore, due to high demand, Matsue Campus’
Co-op has developed original, Halal-friendly menus so
Muslim students can have a healthy and carefree dining
experience.

University Housing
1. Shimane University International House
Matsue Campus
Located 500m away from campus and isfor Matsue Campus exchange students.
Izumo Campus
On-campus housing for Izumo Campus
international students and researchers.
Izumo Campus Tenjin Branch
Located 2km from Izumo Campus and is for
Izumo Campus international students andresearchers who have family.

Matsue Campus

Izumo Campus

https://kokusai.shimane-u.ac.jp/kaigairyugakusei/english/index.html#housing

2. Student Dormitory
The student dormitory is locateda 10-minute walk away from
Matsue Campus. Buildings A, B
and C each offer slightly different
amenities and are conveniently
located in the same complex.

Job Hunting Support
Job hunting support for international students is
conducted collaboratively by the Career Section of theHigher Education Center and the International Center.
International students can gain a greater knowledge ofJapan’s job-hunting culture through job hunting guidance sessions, individual job counseling, visits tocompanies, and regularly-held business Japanese
language lectures. As a result of these opportunities,
international students consistently graduate from theuniversity and move on to obtain successful careers inJapan.

Shimane University Welcomes and Supports International Students and Researchers!
● International Center● Student Support Center

https://kokusai.shimane-u.ac.jp/english/

https://gakushien.shimane-u.ac.jp/● Health Service Center

Matsue Campus https://shimane-u.health.wdeco.jp/
Izumo Campus https://www.med.shimane-u.ac.jp/health/MatsueIzumo

SHIMANE UNIVERSIT Y PROSPECTUS 2023 -2024

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Faculty of

Law andLiterature

The Faculty of Law and Literature covers awide range of fields in humanities and social
sciences. You can study a variety of research
fields in small-size classes, where it is easy to
ask questions or ask for advice from teachersand classmates. The faculty also plays a closerole with communities in the region. Many
students actively take part in social research,archaeological research, city planning and
NPO activities. We offer graduate programs inhumanities and social sciences as well. Each
program aims to educate students in developing academic information literacy to play auseful part in today’s highly information-oriented society.
We seek students with a strong motivation
to study and a clear vision of the future. We arecommitted to ensuring that our students acquire academic knowledge, develop researchskills, and make full use of their knowledge andskills in society.
A candidate must have graduated from highschool or have achieved the equivalent of ahigh school education. International students
are also required to have a high level of proficiency in Japanese language (N1 of theJapanese Language Proficiency Test) since
education is conducted in Japanese.
https://www.hobun.shimane-u.ac.jp/

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Department of Law and Economics● Law Course● Economics Course● Judicial Special Course

The Department of Law and Economics provides lectures
about both fields of law and economics. Our educational
purpose is to study society from both perspectives.
Regional communities have many problems to be solved; forexample, the environment, declining birthrate and aging population, decentralization of power, to name a few. In addition,
concerning the life of citizens, new movements in the fields oflabor, family, and economy have become big issues.
We expect students to gain the basic knowledge of law andeconomics, to apply it, and to acquire the ability to analyze
situations, formulate policies, and solve problems.

https://www.hobun.shimane-u.ac.jp/houkei/

Department of Socio-Cultural Studies● Contemporary Society Course● History and Archaeology Course

This department offers two courses to students who are interested in socio-cultural studies. In the Contemporary Society
Course, students can study sociology, geography, and cultural
anthropology. This course contributes to developing students’ability to understand and explain the relationship between
human beings and community, the structure and functions ofcommunity, and characteristics of community culture.
In the History and Archaeology Course, there are five fields:
Japanese history, Asian history, European history, contemporary history, and archaeology. Students have the opportunity to
study history and archaeology from a broad perspective anddeepen their understanding of theoretical studies through fieldresearch and excavation.

https://www.hobun.shimane-u.ac.jp/shakaibunka/

Department of Language and Culture● Japanese Language and Culture Studies● Chinese Language and Culture Studies● English Language and Culture Studies● German Language and Culture Studies● French Language and Culture Studies● Philosophy, Art, and Cultural Relations Studies

The department provides six study areas. Five of them explore
literature, linguistics, and the colorful history of the individual
languages—Japanese, Chinese, English, German and French.
Some texts are held in scrolls and others are found in varying
forms of manuscripts ranging in time periods from the 16th
century to the modern 21st century. In addition, the area of
Philosophy, Art and Cultural Relations investigates various cultural phenomena that intertwine and are interpreted throughtime and intercultural communication. Each area guides stu-

dents to learn research methods and be better thinkers andcommunicators in the community.
https://www.hobun.shimane-u.ac.jp/gengobunka/

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Faculty of

Education

Fostering Professional Teachers ThroughExperience
The Faculty of Education at Shimane University
is the only department in the San'in Region thatis exclusively dedicated to teacher education.
We see ourselves as pioneers of education
reformation in the 21st century and take initiatives in solving various educational problems in
the local communities. We foster professional
teachers with great passion and profoundexpertise to handle practical problems at
school.
Characteristics of the Curriculum and Research
In our teacher training curriculum, a great emphasis is put on hands-on learning with the
1,000-Hour Experiential Program, as well as
academic course work that develops basic
scholastic abilities. This is based on our belief
that prospective teachers must be equippedwith practical experience with which they cancompare their performance with the educational theories mastered in class.

https://www.edu.shimane-u.ac.jp/

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1,000-Hour Experiential Program
It is difficult to learn how teachers work with children andparents simply by studying textbooks. The program immerses
students in hands-on experiences where they meet and talkwith people, especially with children from the communities.
This special program consists of two subprograms: the “Basic
Experiential Program,” which puts students in direct contact
with children in various environments and the “Practical Education Program,” where students practice teaching at school anddevelop basic skills in clinical psychology, including counseling.

Center for Research on Teacher
Education
This center is in charge of managing the teacher training curriculum for students in departments other than education andtakes care of their practice teaching and care work experience.
It also provides information on teacher recruitment examinations and organizes various seminars targeted at bothprospective and in-service teachers. Students can freely use its
working space for studying and communicating with others
who have the same goal of becoming teachers.

Center for Educational Support
We support the following three programs: the 1,000-HourExperiential Program, the Profile Sheet System and the Mirai
Kyousi Juku Program.
① 1,000-Hour Experiential Program
The 1,000-Hour Experiential Program immerses students inhands-on experiences where they meet and talk with people,
especially with children from the communities surrounding
Shimane University. This special program consists of two
subprograms: the “Basic Experiential Program,” which puts
students in direct contact with children in various environments, and the “Practical Education Program,” where students
practice teaching at school and develop and enhance basic
skills in clinical psychology, including counseling.

② Portfolio System for Students' Study
The system provides both an objective evaluation and aself-assessment of students’ accumulated experiences,accompanied by radar charts.
③ Program for Prospective Teachers, Mirai Kyousi Juku
ProgramThis program is designed for students who will take theteacher recruitment examination. We hold seminars on
self-analysis, self-appeal, preparation for interviews, andsimulated lessons. Through the content of the seminar, thestudents deepen their thoughts on education and the idealteacher.

Center for Faculty Development
Strategies
This center is the organization responsible for the developmentof the Faculty of Education through reviewing, evaluating, andimproving educational programs. It is aimed at evaluating,devising, and improving all the subjects of the Faculty of
Education and its unique educational activities. It also plays therole of utilizing various data for educational improvement.

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Faculty of

Human
Sciences

The Faculty of Human Sciences, founded in2017, aims for the fundamental understandingof human beings and applies that knowledge
to people, particularly in the local community.
The mission of the faculty is to construct a society where people live by their own values.
The multidisciplinary academic staff tackle
issues across various research fields: psychology, social welfare, and health sciences. Our
educational programs enable students to comprehensively understand mental, physical, andsocial aspects of human life. To acquire bothpractical and scientific attitudes, students are
given opportunities to practice in local communities from their first year to their fourth year
and integrate these experiences with scientificthoughts and theories. Interactive Presentation
Meeting (IPM) is a distinctive class in which
the students present and discuss with eachother their research and experiences, which
exceed their specialties. Through coursework,
students are encouraged to develop communication skills and address issues in cooperation
with people from various backgrounds. Graduates are expected to be specialists in humanservices, public services, and business with
sufficient knowledge and practical interpersonal skills.

https://www.hmn.shimane-u.ac.jp/

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Psychology Course
It is necessary to have both viewpoints of considering of unique
individuals and understanding of general principles of thehuman mind in order to understand humans. Students learn
about the human mind and behavior multidirectionally by
understanding the human mind and behavior scientificallythrough experiments and research, and by understanding thehuman mind practically, sympathetically and objectively. Insuch regional practice classes, students learn empiricallythrough involvement with local people. Through study, we build
the capabilities to understand the human mind and behavior,and support people emotionally.

https://www.ipc.shimane-u.ac.jp/psych/index.html

Social Welfare Course
Welfare services preserve human dignity. They have become
indispensable parts of our lives. Students in this course are
expected to work on their intellectual growth in finding causes
and natures of social problems in Japanese society throughin-depth analysis with the multiple perspectives on helping
people. They are also expected to work hard to develop theircapacities as professional social workers who can evaluateclients’ individual problems, come up with practical solutions
using clients’ strengths. The course curriculum is designed toenable students to learn the values, theories and skills of social
welfare systematically and to follow the national requirementsof certified social workers and psychiatric social workers.
https://www.hmn.shimane-u.ac.jp/welfare/welfare.html

Health Sciences Course
The Health Sciences Course has physical, mental and social
aspects. In this course, students learn about physical healthscientifically. Students learn from teachers in various fields
such as sport sciences, occupational health, environmental
health, and the healthcare business related to health garments
and foods. We foster students who can support people’s healthand a healthy, long-lived society through various classes andpractices in social health facilities.

https://www.ipc.shimane-u.ac.jp/health-sciences/index.html

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Faculty of

Medicine

Basic Concept
Education, research, and medical services are
conducted to equip students with a sense ofculture and ethics from an international viewpoint. This also cultivates in them the spirit ofscientific inquiry, alongside medical and nursing sciences, thus supporting community
development and the welfare of humanity.
Educational Goal
The educational goal is to produce doctors andnurses with a sense of culture, ethics, and thespirit of scientific inquiry as well as a humanistic orientation that enables them to maintainthe utmost respect for human life and treat
modern-day challenges professionally.
OutlineLocated in Izumo City, our campus consists ofalmost 350 academic staff and almost 900 undergraduate students. The Faculty of Medicine
has 36 departments in the School of Medicine
and 3 departments in the School of Nursing.
The undergraduate course for the School of
Medicine lasts 6 years and the School of Nursing lasts 4 years.

https://www.med.shimane-u.ac.jp/english/index.html

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School of Medicine
At the School of Medicine, our focus is the cultivation of excellent medical professionals who will pave the way for the medical
studies and medical care of tomorrow. Based on a rich senseof humanity, a wide-ranging education, and high moral values,
our students develop cooperation, leadership and decision-making skills, in addition to an international perspective
and an inquiring mind that stimulates progression into undiscovered research territories.
Course Outline
From the early stages of their university education, students
receive a regional-based education that fosters in them a senseof vocation and a strong interest in regional medical care. Also,
by receiving education in medical English and being provided
with opportunities to study overseas, they can develop an internationally-framed way of thinking. Students also get to train
their inquisitive minds by engaging in research experience. Furthermore, tutorial-style education enables students to develop
their problem-solving, information-gathering and cooperation
skills by participating in small groups. Prior to the start of clinical training, implementation of CBT (Computer-Based Testing)and OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) tests
take place. During their clinical clerkship, students experience
real medical care under the supervision of a supervisory doctor, acquiring basic clinical capabilities. Through this clinicalclerkship, which is being utilized at approximately seventy

medical care facilities and hospitals within the prefecture, in
addition to the University Hospital, students learn about primary care and regional medicine.

https://www.med.shimane-u.ac.jp/medicine/

School of Nursing
At the School of Nursing, our focus is on developing a competency in nursing that forms the foundation for progressing
through a lifelong career specializing in the nursing profession.
Through the acquisition of skills and knowledge, our students
develop the capacity to administer nursing care appropriate tovarying health conditions, from health maintenance and promotion, to recovery from illness and end-of-life issues. We
endeavor to develop in our students a broad perspective andrich sense of humanity that will enable them to cooperate withother specialists in the fields of health, medicine, and welfare.
Course Outline
The first year of nursing studies involves acquiring the knowledge necessary for functioning as a working adult and creating
a foundation of knowledge for their nursing studies. Throughout the first and second years, the students study how topractice nursing through the subjects of human understanding,the ethics of caregiving, basic medical knowledge, and scientific evidence. From the second semester of the second year, thefocus becomes more specialized, with studies encompassing
the areas of adult nursing care, pediatric/maternity/gerontological nursing care, psychiatric nursing, regional care and homenursing. In the third and fourth years, students strengthen
their nursing skills and knowledge while training in real nursing care.

https://www.med.shimane-u.ac.jp/kango/

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Interdisciplinary Faculty of

Department of Applied Physics

Science andEngineering● Fundamental Physics

This faculty features an interdisciplinary education andresearch system that spans many topics, ranging fromfundamental science to engineering and providing
solutions to the problems of society today. It consistsof seven departments: applied physics, chemistry,earth science, mathematics, information systems
design and data science, mechanical, electrical andelectronic engineering and architectural design.
Approximately 370 undergraduate students enroll
each school year. The faculty aims at providing
students with the fundamental sense and application
capability required to cope with the advanced andever-changing science and technology. After graduation, many students enter higher graduate courses.
Graduates also find employment in a wide variety ofcompanies and government agencies.

● Electronic Device Engineering

The Department of Applied Physics invites prospective students with vigorous academic interests intheoretical physics, applied physics, electron device
engineering, or in the interrelations of these disciplines. Lectures on modern physics and electron
device engineering subfields at fundamental to advanced levels are carefully organized within our
curriculum. Our fields of research are diverse: superconductor, semiconductor, functional devices,
strongly correlated electronic systems, and quantum, computational, and mathematical physics.
Individual supervision by our faculty comprised of
sixteen active researchers leads to a bachelor’s degree upon completion of the thesis.
https://www.phys.shimane-u.ac.jp/

Bilingual Education Course
This course is available for all the departmentsof the faculty and accepts international students.
Since intensive courses for studying Japaneseare placed in the first and second years, thestudents can soon participate in courses taught
in Japanese.
https://www.riko.shimane-u.ac.jp/eng/bilingual.html

https://www.riko.shimane-u.ac.jp/eng/

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SHIMANE UNIVERSIT Y PROSPECTUS 2023 -2024

Department of Chemistry

Department of Earth Science● Basic Chemistry● Geoscience● Functional Materials Chemistry● Geoenvironmental Science

The Department of Chemistry includes three educationalcourses specialized in basic chemistry (aiming to undertake
broad studies in chemistry) and functional materials chemistry (aiming to specialize in engineering and appliedchemistry). Both courses contain lectures from a wide
range of chemistry for their respective educational purposes. In their final year, students execute their own researchstudy under the guidance of professors. In the end, students efficiently gain the skills and knowledge required tocomplete their educational course and graduate.
http://www.chem.shimane-u.ac.jp/● Geo-disaster Science

The department offers research and education based on
geology and some aspects of engineering geology. The
main aims are: (1) to encourage systematic understandingof earth materials and resources; (2) to understand the mutual relationships among humanity, society, and the earth
from geological viewpoints; and (3) to establish effective
methodology to reduce natural disasters based on a wide
knowledge of geological processes and environmental
changes.
Our education programs are aimed to train specialists inearth sciences and related fields. Field work and practicalskills are essential in our undergraduate courses.
https://www.geo.shimane-u.ac.jp/e/Department of Mathematical
Sciences

Department of Information Systems
Design and Data Science

Advanced mathematics provides sophisticated tools and arigorous framework to analyze and describe various reallife phenomena, and seeks the beauty in numbers. Our
department offers two majors: in pure mathematics and in
applied mathematics. In the first year, students learn various foundational courses. From the second year, they learn
advanced courses, including algebra, geometry, topology,
real analysis, complex analysis, statistics, and mathematical modeling. By studying advanced mathematics, students
develop a variety of skills, such as logical reasoning, creative thinking, problem solving, knowledge of data analysis,
statistics, and outstanding presentation skills.

● Data Science● Information Systems Design

Information and computer science and engineering has
been indispensable to a wide range of human activities insociety. The next stage of the society is said to be a data
driven society, where data science is its foundation.
The department aims to provide our students with theknowledge and skills of data science and computer science. The education program consists of two majors:
information systems design, and data science. Information
systems design includes basics in computer science andengineering along with practical applications. Data science
includes statistics and machine learning.

https://www.math.shimane-u.ac.jp/eng/
https://www.cis.shimane-u.ac.jp/

Department of Mechanical, Electricaland Electronic Engineering
The department offers education and research related tothe areas of mechanical engineering, electrical engineering,and electronic engineering. Students study a wide range ofbasic theories related to the areas of this department during
their first three years. During their final year, they research a
specific topic under the individual supervision of a faculty
member. The department aims to nurture graduates who
have prepared for professional engineering in either mechanical engineering or electrical and electronic engineeringwith fundamental knowledge in both of the fields.

http://www.ecs.shimane-u.ac.jp/index_e.html

Department of Architectural Design● Building Structure/Environmental Engineering● Architectural Planning and Design

Our department focuses on teaching and conducting research in three fields (1) architectural planning, (2) building
structure and (3) architectural environment. Students are
nurtured to comprehensive knowledge within two years before orienting themselves to one of these courses: (A)Building Structure/Environmental Engineering or (B) Architectural Planning and Design. From 3rd year, students haveopportunities to choose their major and explore the potential of each field before dedicating their graduation researchat the beginning of their 4th year.
http://kenchiku-seisan.jp/

SHIMANE UNIVERSIT Y PROSPECTUS 2023 -202424

Faculty ofMaterials
for Energy

The Faculty of Materials for Energy is acompletely new Faculty focused on materials
to solve the energy problems that are being
urgently addressed around the world. Throughresearch and development of new materials
that solve energy problems, the Faculty also
nurtures innovative human resources who cansignificantly change society and the future.
Did you know that materials hold the key tosolving energy problems? Take airplanes as an
example. The creation of energy-efficient
aircraft engines depends on the developmentof materials so engines consume less energy
and deliver higher performance. It is no exaggeration to say that the creation of innovation isdriven by materials, and research and development of materials has the power to change
society significantly.
The Faculty of Materials for Energy is thefirst Faculty in Japan to offer a unique learning
curriculum that applies learning and researchin the real world. We look forward to having you
join us to take on global issues through materials science.

https://www.mat.shimane-u.ac.jp/

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SHIMANE UNIVERSIT Y PROSPECTUS 2023 -2024

Features of Education at the
Department of Materials for Energy,
Faculty of Materials for Energy
Character Development● Highly specialized personnel who have a comprehensive#3 Global Education
Through collaborations with the University of Oxford (UK)and the University of Helsinki (Finland), students acquire
broad perspectives, the educational background, and collaborative skills so that they have the ability to communicate
with a diverse range of people and be able to recognize
international trends.

understanding of global energy issues and cancontribute to the construction of a sustainable society
through the field of materials.
● H uman resources who utilize a global perspective

by integrating the knowledge and skills of materials
engineering and informatics to foster innovationin companies and contribute to the promotion ofdigitalization and the development of regional industries.

#1 Development of New Materials
The Faculty of Materials for Energy delivers education thatdevelops innovative materials with low environmental
impact and high performance. Students are trained to understand energy issues, acquire knowledge and skills in thefield of materials engineering, and lead the research anddevelopment of new materials.

#2 Materials Informatics
The Faculty provides practical education in using data to
conduct predictive analysis and find optimal methods. The
use of data utilization techniques can be widely applied inmaterials engineering and other fields, such as functional
prediction and manufacturing optimization.

#4 EntrepreneurshipStudents’ education empowers them to take on the challenge of creating new values and implementing them insociety to further new industrial development. Students
acquire the ability to persistently tackle future issues andcreatively find solutions using design skills.

#5 Project-based Education
We provide project-based education that tackles actual
corporate issues through team collaboration. Through thiseducation, students will be able to accurately grasp corporate issues, understand how the acquired knowledge andskills can be used in the real world, and be able to put theminto practice.

SHIMANE UNIVERSIT Y PROSPECTUS 2023 -2024

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Faculty ofLife andEnvironmental
Sciences

The Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences was established in 1995 and was reorganizedin 2018. Our faculty aims to: 1) understand themechanisms of biological and ecological systems and develop new technologies related tofood and medical sciences; 2) apply scientificoutcomes to agriculture and forestry; and 3)
contribute to local communities, sustainableproduction systems and environmental preservation
andreclamation
efforts.
The
undergraduate course offers a systematic program consisting of lectures, laboratory andfield work, and small-group instruction. Laboratory and field work foster problem-solving
skills and increase understanding of lectures.
Small-group classes improve mutual understanding between students and mentors while
facilitating the development of presentation
skills. Graduates have found work in privatecompanies, government offices, and highschools. Students who wish to improve theirskills can continue their research at the Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology.
The faculty currently consists of three departments and an education and research center.

https://www.life.shimane-u.ac.jp/eng/

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Department of Life Sciences
The Department of Life Sciences aims to foster a fundamental
understanding of biology, ecology and life sciences, as well as
skills in the fields of drug design, food, medical and agriculturalsciences. For second-year students, more specialized courses
are offered. The Cell Biology and the Aquatic Biology andBiodiversity Courses offer curricula oriented towards biology
and ecology, whereas the Biochemistry and Life Sciences
Course and Food and Life Sciences Course offer curricula
oriented towards chemistry and biotechnology. In the second
half of the third year, students are assigned to laboratories andsupervised by professors for their graduation thesis research.

https://www.life.shimane-u.ac.jp/eng/department/life_sciences.html

Department of Agricultural and Forest
Sciences
While providing a scientific foundation for understanding agriculture and forestry, this department also aims to teach theseprinciples in a broader community context. From the second
year, students can hone more specialized skills in the following
four courses: the Crop and Livestock Production Course
focuses on developments in agricultural technology in crop andlivestock production and is based on knowledge of ecosystems, physiology, genetics and soil science. The Horticulture
and Plant Science Course focuses on physiology, biotechnology, and genetics-based horticultural plant production,
breeding, post-harvest management and utilization. The Agricultural Economics Course covers a wide range of subjects
from farm management, marketing, to the development of ruralcommunities. The Forestry Course provides a wide range ofexperiences and knowledge in the areas of silviculture, forest
management, wood production, informatics and renewableenergy.
https://www.life.shimane-u.ac.jp/eng/department/agricultural_and_forest_sciences.html

Department of Environmental andSustainability Sciences
The philosophy of the Department of Environmental andSustainability Sciences is the establishment of a sustainable
and harmonized bond between the environment and humansociety. In order to realize this idea, our department provides
an attractive curriculum to develop and apply advanced knowledge of soil, water, resources and environmental organisms.
Students in our department are expected to become pioneers
in the sustainable management of both natural and urban environments.

https://www.life.shimane-u.ac.jp/eng/department/environmental_and_sustainability_sciences.html

Education and Research Center for
Biological Resources
Forests, agricultural land and marine areas constitute a naturallandscape for human life and supply diverse and rich biologicalproducts. The Education and Research Center for Biological
Resources has a policy to contribute to science and social
education from the point of view that these diverse environments are connected as an integrated system.
The center consists of three sections at different sites:
Forest Science (in Sanbe and Hikimi), Agricultural Science (inHonjo and Jinzai), and Marine Biological Science (on Oki
Islands). The center offers lectures on the interface between
human activities and natural environments and also on the
biological connections between forests, agricultural land andmarine areas. The lectures and programs are open to students

from every course. The center aims to contribute to ourunderstanding of biodiversity, ecosystems and wildlife
mechanisms through the experiences and activities at thefield sites.
http://www.ipc.shimane-u.ac.jp/ercbr/index-english.html

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Graduate Schools
Graduate School of Human andSocial Sciences● Division of Social Development and Innovation

Law and Politics
Regional Economics
Humanities and Social Sciences
Health and Behavioral Sciences● Division of Clinical Psychology

The Graduate School of Human and Social Sciences has two
divisions. The objective of the Division of Social Development
and Innovation is to educate students so that they can deepen
their specialty in each field concerning human and social
problems of contemporary society, approach problems fromboth human and social sides, tackle problems from a wide
interdisciplinary human view point, social and naturalsciences, and lead movement to create a futuristic society inwhich diverse people can respectfully live together in a worldof their own. This division consists of four specialization
areas. Assignment to a specialization area is done immediately after admission based on research-planning.
The objective of the Division of Clinical Psychology is to
educate students so that they can accomplish various tasks:(1) become qualified as certified public psychologists andclinical psychologists; (2) acquire the talent to work as

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SHIMANE UNIVERSIT Y PROSPECTUS 2023 -2024

specialist like counselors based on their ability in assessment,
counseling and community care with a high level of skill inclinical psychology; (3) tackle clinical-psychological problems based on a wide interdisciplinary viewpoint; and (4) lead
movement to create a futuristic society in which diverse
people can respectfully live together in a world of their own.

https://www.hmnsoc.shimane-u.ac.jp/

Graduate School of Education● Department of Professional School for Teacher Education

The Professional School for Teacher Education aims tonurture teaching professionals for elementary school to highschool levels to work with contemporary educational issues insociety, both at the global and local level. In particular, we
focus on educational issues in our region, such as small-sizedschools and rural aspects with rich natural resources andactive cooperation from local communities. This two-year
program values theory as well as practical learning, to develop
knowledge and competencies to become school leaders.
The three pillars of our curriculum are school managementin the changing society, collaborating with other stakeholders
in the community, class design instructions with theory andcurriculum development, and support for children with various
backgrounds, through differentiated instructions. Teachingpractice and research on-site at school are mandatory.
Our students are composed of current teachers assigned
from the Shimane and Tottori Prefectural Board of Education,and new college graduates. Graduate students’ research
projects are based on current issues in each school and area.
These projects have contributed to solving problems andimproving the situation in the class, school and communities.
A Japanese teaching certificate is required for admission andinternational collaborative research has been developed.
Certified international students in other programs are able toaudit courses. It is our mission to work with teachers andteachers-to-be to enrich our children’s lives and learning.

https://www.edu.shimane-u.ac.jp/daigakuin/index.html

Graduate School of Medical
Research● Department of Medical Science● Department of Nursing

Master’s Course (Medical Science)
The purpose of this course is to educate bachelors of
non-medical courses about medicine from the perspective ofcomprehensive and academic science. Our basic policy is toutilize the research and educational outcomes achieved at theuniversity and in the community to benefit the education andtraining of our students.
Doctoral Course (Medical Science)
Through the Doctoral Course in Medical Science, students
are expected to develop a high level of research competency,
abundant knowledge, and a passion for human nature
required to lead medical professionals in addition to the skills
and expertise required of clinicians.
Master’s Course (Nursing)
The course objective is to cultivate individuals with a richsense of humanity coupled with a broad perspective and topossess excellent practical nursing skills, creative researchcapabilities, and the ability to carry out research in nursing
studies from a scientific point of view.

Doctoral Course (Nursing)
The course objective is to develop educational researchers
who will benefit an ageing society where people can leadenriching lives, by working towards the improvement of
nursing care and by conducting high-standard creative
research in nursing for the study of gerontology.

https://www.med.shimane-u.ac.jp/english/graduate/

SHIMANE UNIVERSIT Y PROSPECTUS 2023 -202430

Graduate School of Natural Scienceand Technology (Master's degree course)● Major in Science and Engineering● Major in Science of Environmental Systems● Major in Agricultural and Life Sciences

The Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology,
established in 2018, offers Master’s degree programs related
to there majors: Science and Engineering, Science of Environmental Systems, and Agricultural and Life Sciences. In
addition, each major is connected to a department in theundergraduate school, which enables continuous educationfrom the undergraduate level.
The graduate school undertakes education and research ina wide range of academic fields including science, engineering and agriculture. The students develop scientificknowledge, presentation skills, global insights, and the ability
to formulate new ideas. The graduates become highly creative
innovators, engineers, and researchers who will contribute to
the development of science, technology and the creation of asustainable society.
In the Science and Engineering Major, students acquirebasic knowledge of mathematics, physics, and informatics.
Based on this knowledge, they will contribute to the development of mathematical science, physics, information science,mechanical engineering, electrical and electronic engineering,and materials engineering as advanced engineers andresearchers with international viewpoints.
In the Science of Environmental Systems Major, students
acquire basic knowledge in earth science, environmental andsustainability sciences, chemistry, and architecture. Basedon this knowledge, they will contribute to the creation of richand environmentally friendly society as advanced engineers
and researchers with practical skills, creativity, and international viewpoints.
In the Agricultural and Life Sciences Major, students
acquire basic knowledge of agriculture and life sciences.
Based on this knowledge, they will contribute to the development of life science and utilization of agricultural and forest
products as advanced engineers and researchers with self-reliant problem-solving abilities, rich humanity, and international
viewpoints.
https://www.natural.shimane-u.ac.jp/english/

Graduate School of Natural Scienceand Technology (Doctoral degree course)● Major in Science and Engineering for Innovation

A new doctoral degree program in the Graduate School of
Natural Science and Technology has recently been established as part of the restructuring of the Interdisciplinary
Graduate School of Science and Engineering.
Our doctoral program promotes interdisciplinary education
among research fields to develop researchers who can open
up new fields with a broad perspective. Our doctoral degree
program is organized into two courses: the Science and Engineering Course, and the Science of Natural Environment
Systems Course. The Science and Engineering course promotes research and education in mathematics, informatics,
physics, materials engineering, mechanical engineering, andelectrical and electronic engineering.
The Science of Natural Environment Systems Course promotes research and education in a wide range of topics, fromstudying the earth itself to the lives which form in natural environment systems.
The doctoral degree program of the Graduate School of
Natural Science and Technology offers three specialist programs: (1) the Materials Engineering Special Program, forstudents involved in the research of advanced materials in the
Next Generation Tatara Co-Creation Centre of Shimane University; (2) the Collaborative Program of Medicine, Science,

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Engineering and Agriculture, for students with backgrounds inscience, engineering, or agriculture, who have an interest in
the medical applications of physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics, informatics, agriculture or various fields ofengineering; and (3) the Special Program in Earth Science andGeo-environmental Science, for students from Asia and thetrans-Pacific, which provides vigorous leading-edge academic training in fields including geoscience, development andconservation of earth resources, solutions for environmental
problems, prediction and prevention of natural disasters, andthe sustainable long-term evolution of our society.
https://www.natural.shimane-u.ac.jp/english/

International Student's Voice
Andi Masdipa
Department Ophthalmology,
Graduate school of Medicine

In April 2020, I was accepted into the Doctoral Program at
Shimane University, I was very happy and wanted to immediately experience doing research with various modern andsophisticated laboratory equipment. However, due to thepandemic, I started my research after waiting 2 years in mycountry. At the beginning of my third year, I was able to cometo Japan and start my research. The theme of my research
was to test and explore the pressure characteristics of glaucoma drainage devices, which was very interesting because I
discussed medical and physical science in this research.
Although I encountered some obstacles, with the guidanceand encouragement of my supervisor, I was able to complete
my first research project and the results were published at the
beginning of the fourth academic year.
I really enjoy living here, the atmosphere is very calm andthe people are friendly. The academic affairs, international

Moniruzzaman Mohammad
Graduate School of Natural Scienceand Technology

My research activities and university life.
I am a third-year PhD student at the Graduate School of
Natural Science and Technology at Shimane University, originally from Bangladesh. I chose this institution for its
established research excellence and cutting-edge facilities,
which have provided me with a unique and valuable experience that has enhanced my career prospects.
Throughout my PhD journey, my research activities anduniversity life have been instrumental in shaping my growth.
These activities include conducting thorough literature
reviews, receiving feedback from my supervisor, designingand executing experiments, analyzing data, and synthesizing
findings. In the past two years, I have attended various
academic events such as conferences, seminars, symposia,
and internships. The university's academic community,
comprised of passionate students and faculty, has played aexchange and members of my department are very friendly
and helpful. I live in the university dormitory, and it is very
close to the campus. Living with a family in a foreign country
initially made me worried about some things but after living it,
the worries turned into happiness.
Apart from my studies, I enjoy participating in social activities with the local community in Izumo, which often helps
international students and teaches Japanese culture. In addition, my sensei made me a part of the Goalball team of
Shimane University Hospital, which was very interesting
because I had the opportunity to play sports with people withvisual impairments and blindness.

vital role in my development. This community provides asupportive and stimulating atmosphere that encourages the
exploration of interests, discussion, and mutual learning.
Furthermore, I have had the opportunity to attend various
cultural exchange programs offered by the university,
complemented by local clubs and communities, which
provide an excellent platform for exchanging ideas andculture.
With utmost appreciation, I extend my gratitude to the
University for introducing the S-SPRING fellowship program,which has been an invaluable support system providing mewith financial and research assistance, enabling me to wholeheartedly devote myself to academic pursuits.
In conclusion, my pursuit of a PhD at Shimane University has
been a transformative experience, both personally andprofessionally. The amalgamation of research activities anduniversity life has provided me with a fulfilling and enrichingexperience that has challenged me to stretch thelimits of my knowledge
and understanding. With
the necessary resources
and tools, I am confident
that I will create a lasting
impact in my field.

SHIMANE UNIVERSIT Y PROSPECTUS 2023 -2024

32

International Student's VoiceAl Busaidi Sara Saif
Mohammed Saud
Graduate School of Natural Scienceand Technology

I am a master student studying Geosciences with a focus ongeochemistry. Currently, I am working on a research project
about some of the millions of years old igneous rocks in
Shimane, those that for example come out of volcanoes. The
research includes days of fieldwork for collecting rocks,
which are then brought to the lab for further studies. I checktheir minerals under the microscope and work on other techniques to analyze their chemical composition. I hope fromthis work to unravel the story behind the formation of theserocks.
Life as a student at Shimane University has given me themost unique experiences I have ever had. Since I am only
staying here for two years, I want to make the most of mytime, so I involve myself in several club activities. I find pleasure in participating in events that aims to make interactions
between international and Japanese students where weshare each other’s cultures. Through these events, I have met
great people that made me enjoy college life even more. With

them, I enjoy playing some sports like volleyball, badminton,and snowboarding. Also, from time to time, we enjoy goingout immersing ourselves in the surrounding beauty of
Shimane’s nature, as it helps us recharging and keeps theongoing aspiration for our academic work.
All these opportunities I’m having made it an absolute treat
studying at Shimane University. I want to express my sincere
gratitude to my supervisor and lab mates who are helping me
making a progress in my research work, and to my friends
that are making my experience here a lifetime memory.

Support for Doctoral Students
Shimane University provides financial support for livelihood
and research to the excellent doctoral graduate students (Asof 2023).
This project named “SU Capacity Building Project Towards
a Sustainable Society (S-SPRING)” aims to resolve various
issues of the regions, Japan, and the world, and to foster
doctoral students who will lead a future knowledge-basedsociety towards the development of a sustainable society inJapan.
This project provides financial support to such excellent
students, and provides courses for them to acquire the skills
required by companies, etc., thereby creating an environment in which they can devote themselves to their researchwithout worrying about employment.

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It also provides opportunities to enhance students'
research skills under the guidance of outstanding mentors inJapan and abroad, and to interact with doctoral students ofdifferent research fields, thereby encouraging the creation ofinterdisciplinary research and broad perspectives towards asustainable society.
In addition to the S-SPRING, we also offer other programs
and scholarships (provided by the university and other foundation) to support international students. The content
changes from each year, so please check the university
website for details.
S-SPRING：

https://www.shimane-u.ac.jp/education/school_info/dr_aid/Admission Information
Study at Shimane University
Undergraduate

Graduate School

Degreeprograms

Degreeprograms

Privately-financed student
Japanese government student

Privately-financed student
Japanese government student

Research student
Exchange student
Part-time student

Research student

Non-degree
programs

Exchange student

Non-degree
programs

Short-term program student

Part-time student
Short-term program student

Admission Schedule and Other Programs
https://www.shimane-u.ac.jp/en/study/future_students/admission_information.html

Facilities, Research Institutes & Organizations
Facilities
University Library at Matsue and Izumo

Shimane University Hospital (Izumo)

https://www.lib.shimane-u.ac.jp/english/

https://www.med.shimane-u.ac.jp/hospital/English/

Research Institutes

Centers and Organizations

International Joint Research Institute of
Shimane University and Ningxia University

Health Service Center

http://www.ningxia.shimane-u.ac.jp/index.html

https://shimane-u.health.wdeco.jp/
https://www.med.shimane-u.ac.jp/health/Estuary Research Center (EsRec )https://www.esrec.shimane-u.ac.jp/eng/
Matsue Campus

Center for Natural Disaster Reduction
Research and Education
https://ndrre.shimane-u.ac.jp/english.html

Head Office for Regional Collaboration andInnovation
https://www.reg-collab.shimane-u.ac.jp/

Izumo Campus

Student Support Center
http://gakushien.shimane-u.ac.jp/

International Center
https://kokusai.shimane-u.ac.jp/english/

Next Generation Tatara Co-Creation Centre

Center for Foreign Language
Education

https://tatara.shimane-u.ac.jp/en/

https://cfle.shimane-u.ac.jp/english/

SHIMANE UNIVERSIT Y PROSPECTUS 2023 -202434

Shimane University
1060 Nishikawatsu-cho, Matsue,
Shimane Pref., 690-8504 Japan
URL:http://www.shimane-u.ac.jp/en/

International Center
URL:https://kokusai.shimane-u.ac.jp/english/© Shimane University