Today’s society is information-based, and utilizing information technology in an interdisciplinary way will be vital for its future development. The role of the Graduate School of Information Science is to undertake high-level fundamental research in cutting-edge areas of information science while educating and training researchers and engineers to be pioneers in fields such as computer science, media infomatics, and applied infomatics. With outstanding faculty members and excellent facilities, it offers a stimulating environment for students and young researchers to gain both systematic training and practical experience.
The quarter system (four academic terms per year) provides a varied curriculum and intensive training in a flexible framework, including archived lectures. Policies designed to attract and encourage outstanding students from a diverse range of backgrounds are in place, including fast-track admission and an accelerated graduation system that enables the early completion of masters’ and doctoral courses. Students can choose their research laboratory based on their own preferences, with the opportunity to change themes later should they wish. Stable research funding, advanced large-scale facilities, and a relaxed environment in which debate is encouraged help create a stimulating atmosphere in which students are invited to identify and pursue their own creative research themes, with many students having the opportunity to present their results at major international conferences.
The Graduate School of Information Science actively welcomes applications from overseas students. NAIST offers a variety of forms of support for students from other countries, including on-campus dormitory accommodation, information on scholarships, a mentoring system, help with visa and other immigration issues, and family support.