The Institute for the Liberal Arts, Doshisha University

15/07/2026

Join us at Doshisha University's OPEN CAMPUS on Saturday, August 1, 2026.

Discover what makes the Institute for the Liberal Arts (ILA) a truly global and inspiring place to learn.

We invite you to attend our Course Introduction session, led by the ILA faculty, and our Application Advice Session, where you can speak directly with our admissions staff. You’ll also have the chance to hear firsthand from current students about life and learning at the ILA.

Whether you're interested in our curriculum, student life, or the application process, we'd love to meet you and help you explore the possibilities that await you at the ILA.

We look forward to welcoming you.

【1. Course Introduction】
Date : Saturday, August 1, 2026
Time : 9:30-10:00
Place : Imadegawa Campus, Ryoshin-kan 3F, Room No.RY305
★Pre registration is required.
https://gakubunyushi.doshisha.ac.jp/oc/

【2. Application Advise Session】
Date : Saturday, August 1, 2026
Time : 9:30-16:10
Place : Imadegawa Campus, Ryoshin-kan 1F, Room No.RY104
＊No registration required.

07/07/2026

Make your education an adventure.

When people think of summer in Kyoto, the Gion Festival—one of Japan's three greatest festivals—is often the first thing that comes to mind. Yet beyond its spectacular floats and lively celebrations, Kyoto is also home to another beloved summer tradition: riverside dining platforms known as noryo-yuka and kawadoko.

From May through September, restaurants along the Kamo River build elegant terraces overlooking the flowing water, where guests can enjoy a meal while cooling off in the evening breeze. Dating back more than 400 years, this seasonal custom has become one of Kyoto's most iconic symbols of summer.

A short trip north of the city center brings visitors to Kibune, where another style of kawadoko can be found. Here, dining platforms are built directly above a clear mountain stream, allowing guests to dine surrounded by lush greenery and the soothing sound of flowing water in refreshingly cool air.

To study in Kyoto is to live in the heart of such rich culture and tradition. At the ILA, located right in the city center, you can earn a world-class degree entirely in English while immersing yourself in the everyday beauty of Japan.

The Institute for the Liberal Arts
B.A. Liberal Arts Program
Doshisha University
Kyoto,JAPAN

03/07/2026

The semester is entering its final stretch.

As summer gradually settles over campus, the long-awaited summer break is just around the corner.

Many of you are likely busy with papers, presentations, and exam preparation as the semester comes to a close.

Kyoto is about to enter its hottest and most humid season, so please take good care of yourselves and stay healthy as you finish the semester.

We wish you all a rewarding and successful end to the semester.

10/06/2026

We received an inspiring message from ILA alumna Anna Malpas.

Now pursuing doctoral research in Anthropology at the University of Oxford, Anna reflects on how the curiosity, intellectual freedom, and interdisciplinary learning she experienced at the ILA continue to shape her academic journey.

We invite you to hear her story.

08/06/2026

Why Study the Liberal Arts?

In a world where there is rarely just one right answer, what abilities should we develop?

1. Analyze and Interpret Information
Learn how to evaluate evidence, identify patterns, and understand complex issues from multiple perspectives.

2. Form and Express Informed Opinions
Develop the ability to think critically, build strong arguments, and confidently share your ideas.

3. Communicate Effectively
Strengthen your skills in discussion, presentation, and academic writing across cultures and disciplines.

4. Appreciate the Richness of a Diverse Human Culture
Explore different cultures, histories, and perspectives while developing a deeper understanding of the world.

5. Better Understand Human Nature and Society
Examine how people, communities, and institutions shape the societies we live in.

04/06/2026

A feature article introducing Imari Yasuno from Doshisha University's Faculty of Social Studies and her experience with the International Specialization Program at The Institute for the Liberal Arts (ILA).

同志社大学グローバル・コミュニケーション学部の特徴的な学び

02/06/2026

同志社大学で、世界につながる学びを。

国際教育インスティテュート（ILA）では、すべての授業を英語で開講しています。世界各国から集まる学生と、日本人学生が共に学ぶ国際的な環境の中で、多様な価値観や視点に触れながら学びを深めています。

ILA国際専修コースでは、同志社大学に在籍しながら、英語で行われるILAの授業を履修することができます。 日本社会や文化、国際関係、政治、法律、経済、ビジネスなど、幅広い分野を英語で学びながら、グローバルな視野と実践的なコミュニケーション力を身につけてみませんか?

説明会では、実際の授業内容や学びの特色、国際色豊かなILAの学びの環境についてご紹介します。世界各国から集まる学生と共に学び、多様な価値観に触れながら、英語で考え、議論し、発信する力を磨く。そんなILAならではの学びに興味のある方は、ぜひお気軽にご参加ください。

Start Your Global Journey at Doshisha — in English.

At the Institute for the Liberal Arts (ILA), all classes are taught entirely in English. Students from around the world learn alongside Japanese students in an international environment that encourages the exchange of diverse perspectives and ideas.

Through the International Specialization Program, Doshisha University students can enroll in ILA courses taught in English. Explore a wide range of subjects—including Japanese society and culture, international relations, politics, law, economics, and business—while developing a global perspective and practical communication skills.

At this information session, you will learn more about the ILA’s courses, academic approach, and internationally diverse learning environment. Study alongside students from around the world, engage with different perspectives, and strengthen your ability to think, discuss, and communicate in English. If you are interested in the unique learning experience that the ILA offers, we warmly invite you to join us.


#国際専修コース #英語で学ぶ

25/05/2026

All ILA classes are conducted entirely in English. On this day, Professor Baker, a scholar of art history and popular media, led the class “World, Youth, and Pop Culture.”

Students explored the relationship between contemporary social media and human social behavior. Drawing on Tom Standage’s writing, they examined how humans have long formed communities through sharing information and connecting with others, and considered how these deeply rooted tendencies continue to shape digital communication and youth culture today. Through discussion and critical reflection, students engaged with familiar aspects of everyday life from new and unexpected perspectives.

Later in the class, students broke into small groups and engaged in lively discussion. Moving from group to group, Professor Baker listened closely to students’ conversations and, at times, joined in—posing questions and encouraging the discussion to develop in deeper and more thoughtful directions. Throughout the room, students presented their independent research, actively exchanged ideas, and learned from one another’s perspectives, creating an atmosphere of curiosity, engagement, and shared inquiry.

At the ILA, moments like these are part of everyday learning: students from diverse cultural backgrounds exchanging perspectives, exploring ideas, and growing through shared inquiry.

19/05/2026

Today, under Kyoto’s early summer sky, the temperature reached 30°C, and the strong sunlight made the changing season unmistakable.

Clarke Memorial Hall—one of the most iconic symbols of Doshisha University’s Imadegawa Campus—is beautiful not only from the outside, but also within. The quiet atmosphere, soft light through the windows, and timeless interior create a truly special space.

Clarke Chapel hosts Chapel Hour every Tuesday through Friday, and the annual Chapel Concert is held each November.

12/05/2026

We received an inspiring message from ILA alumnus Boon How Chua.

Now building an impressive global career while pursuing his MBA, he reflects on how his experiences at the ILA continue to shape his path today.

We invite you to hear his story!