1. AGU's style of education: Caring for others and contributing to society in a spirit of charity
In keeping with our school motto, 'The Salt of the Earth, The Light of the World,' based on Christianity, we provide educational opportunities and support for students so that they can cultivate a broader view within their communities and take initiative in helping others. The aim is also to help students acquire skills that will be useful to them in their future employment, as well as knowledge that will help them participate actively in society.
Active volunteerism: AGU has established a university-recognised student group called the ‘Volunteer Station’ at the University after the March 11 disastrous earthquake and tsunami in 2011. Volunteer Station members went to Ishinomaki City and other disaster areas in the Tohoku regions to support local people and communities, and they continue to give support in various ways. Volunteer activities at Aoyama are not limited to Japan, but include support for people in other countries, such as Indonesia and Nepal.
Mutual international exchange: AGU has overseas liaison offices in both Thailand and Taiwan, comprised of local staff. We also have partnershipswith more than 100 universities in 30 countries around the world, and organize 11 short-term study abroad programs during the summer and spring breaks. The United Nations University, which is located just across the street from Aoyama's Shibuya campus, is one of our close partners, providing opportunities to co-host lectures and work together on the basis of various academic agreements.
Competitive sports clubs: Many sports clubs at AGU have successfully participated in intercollegiate competitions. Distinguished examples in include our track team, which, for the first time in history, took first place in the 2015 Hakone Ekiden (championship), a marathon relay race traditionally held in Japan during the New Year holiday. Teams for other sports, such as basketball and volleyball have also achieved great results in their performances. Enhanced support is given to rugby, men's baseball, women's volleyball, men's basketball and track squad.
2. AGU's superb educational environment and curriculum
Studying at a single campus, AGU provides a consecutive education through all academic years, enabling students to choose specialized subjects during their junior years and to their broaden study opportunities.
The new twin tower building opened in 2012 provides better student services, allowing all students in related sections to gather on the same floor.
The Aoyama campus is located in the heart of Tokyo, in an area known for both its cutting-edge culture and its international atmosphere. Diplomatic ambassadors and public figures give lectures on campus, and many international conferences are held here as well.
The Sagamihara campus, located near Tokyo, has state-of-the-art facilities and laboratories. Nearby there are the factories of many major companies as well as research institutes such as the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency.
3. AGU's academic excellence and diversity of students
Faculty members are leading figures in their respective academic fields.
Over 50,000 candidates take our university's entrance exams every year, making AGU one of the topnotch universities in Japan to enter. Studying with fellow students who come from all over Japan and other countries will enrich your student life.
4. A 140-year history of education and extensive alumni network, with a high rate of employment among graduates
"Aoyama Gakuin" has a long history as a private education provider in Japan, offering comprehensive educational opportunities from kindergarten through graduate school. Graduates often networkwith each other, and we are proud of their achievements in various fields, such as banking/finance, IT, manufacturing, education, services, and traditional arts/entertainment. AGU consistently has a high rate of employment among its graduates.
5. A variety of academic fields, which are constantly evolving
AGU has 24 departments, organized into 9 faculties, 10 graduate schools, and 3 professional graduate schools. In 1982, the pioneering School of International Politics, Economics, and Business was established to develop students who are able to work in the international field. To meet the demand for a more diversified society, the School of Cultural and Creative Studies and the School of Social Informatics were established in 2008, and the College of Education, Psychology and Human Studies was established in 2009. Our 10th faculty, the School of Global Studies and Collaboration opens in 2015 at the Sagamihara Campus.
