EU CENTRE KYUSHU

Voices from Students

Ms Yuriko Kurihara (completed EU Studies Undergraduate Diploma Programme in Fall 2022)
Affiliation at the time of completion of the programme: School of Letters, Kyushu University
*completed EU-DP before graduation

I enrolled EU-DPs in the fall semester of my second year of university. I heard about the programme from my friend and became interested in how I could make some use of it by completing the programme. Since my major was related to Japanese history, I started with very little knowledge about it, and with a busy lab schedule, I had a hard time arranging how to schedule my classes. At first, I read the syllabus and chose classes that were open to students from other schools. Some classes were solidly about the EU, while others were about countries within the EU from a cultural and historical aspect, so it was easy to find the right class for me.

As for classes in other departments, I took classes in the School of Economics and Law. Although not directly applicable to my major, I was able to learn new ways of thinking by learning about the unique situation of the EU and the historical background of social issues. It was a great opportunity for me because I wouldn't have heard about it if I hadn't taken this programme.

After completing the programme, I participated in EU-related symposiums and took a seminar on France, which gave me the opportunity to follow my own interests. I would like to continue to make use of what I have learned in this programme and actively study in the future.

I would like to recommend this programme to everyone, as I started with just a few interests and learned a lot.

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Mr Keiya Nishihara (completed EU Studies Undergraduate Diploma Programme in Spring 2022)
Affiliation at the time of completion of the programme: School of Economics, Kyushu University
*completed EU-DP before graduation

I became more interested in Europe, though only vaguely, because I had an exchange student from Europe as a classmate in high school.

It was during the first semester of my second year in university that I decided to enter the EU-DPs, as I wanted to accomplish something worthwhile during my university life, especially during the time when people had to refrain from going out due to the spread of COVID-19. At that time, there was an announcement about EUDPs in one of my classes. The EU-DPs was the best programme for me because it motivated me to learn more about Europe and to achieve the goal of completing the programme.

After entering the programme, I focused on EU-DPs courses that overlapped with my undergraduate graduation requirement credits. Fortunately, the School of Economics offers a large number of EU-DPs courses, so I had no difficulty in selecting courses. In addition, I was also motivated to take courses in other departments that I was interested in because they were also covered by the EU-DPs, and I was able to broaden my knowledge.

In my job-hunting activities, I was able to show that I took a wide range of courses, including those offered by other departments, from the early stages of my undergraduate studies, and this greatly benefited my job-hunting activities.

In my fourth year of university, I had the opportunity to visit Europe to reunite with my international student friends and experience firsthand the culture and history that I had learned in the EU-DPs.

As you can see, the EU-DPs is not limited to just attending classes but can be beneficial for various purposes, including job hunting and overseas travel. We hope you will enter the programme and seize the opportunity to lead a fulfilling student life.

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Mr Hayato Sakamoto (completed EU Studies Graduate Diploma Programme in Fall 2021)
Affiliation at the time of completion of the programme: Graduate School of Humanities, Kyushu University
Career after graduation: Employment in local government in Kyushu

I remember that I first heard about the EU Studies Diploma Programme when I was enrolled in the Master's programme. Having researched broad European history for my bachelor's thesis, I found the programme to be a perfect fit to me.

Looking back, I feel that my time as a graduate student was very fruitful, thanks to my enrolment in this programme. Not only did I gain a lot of knowledge through the variety of lectures, but I also found it very easy to commit to the events organized by the EU Centre.

My master's research theme of unraveling European regional history from the perspective of Franco-German relations was born out of such out-of-the-box learning. In the summer of my first year as a master's student, I went to Germany to collect historical documents, and looking back on it now, I feel that I was encouraged in large part by the learning and stimulation I received through the programme.

The research paper required for the completion of the programme took an enormous amount of time and effort, and I almost lost heart many times, but I was able to complete it thanks to the historical documents I actually collected in Europe.

Coincidentally, in Japanese society today, EU issues are becoming more and more familiar. I can only hope that learning and studying about Europe in this country of Japan will be a solid step toward building a better world.

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Ms Keiko Kawaguchi (completed EU Studies Graduate Diploma Programme in Fall 2021)
Affiliation at the time of completion of the programme: Graduate School of Integrated Frontier Sciences, Kyushu University

I majored in User Kansei Science at the Graduate School of Integrated Frontier Sciences, and I wanted to seek new knowledge across various fields. In the EU-DPs Master's Course, there are many highly specialized classes offered by the other graduate schools. I told my supervisor at an early stage that I wanted to take this programme, and I decided to start my master's research and EU-DPs in parallel.

Since I wasn't sure which class to take, I consulted with the Kyushu University EU Centre and decided to study German literature after seeing the syllabus. The literary journey through the EU made me feel the expansive world and enriched my heart, even though it was a time when COVID-19 was sweeping the real world.

In my master's research on the subjective well-being of children, I was given one direction: to look at the growth of children in the EU as a mirror of the subjective well-being of Japanese children. The two studies came together as one. In other words, with the analysis of UNICEF's Innocenti Report Card(*) 16 as the core, the conclusions and new questions that emerged from it were qualitatively deepened by observing participants on the ground and listening to the stories of people who have lived in the EU. As a result, I was able to learn a profound lesson about the potential of adults to contribute to children's subjective wellbeing. I would like to continue deepening this research and use it to give back to society.

Thinking about the EU leads to thinking about the world. This programme may be a forum for us to broaden our horizons when thinking about complex issues with no apparent answers. Why don't you join this programme and broaden your learning?

(*) Innocenti Report Card: A series of reports published by UNICEF Innocenti to monitor and compare the performance of economically advanced countries in securing the rights of their children.

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Mr Jin Tanaka (completed the EU Studies Undergraduate Diploma Programme in Fall 2020)
Affiliation at time of completion of the programme: 21st Century Programme, Kyushu University
*completed EU-DP before graduation

I became interested in the EU when I learned that the EU is focusing on environmental issues and promoting renewable energy. As I wanted to learn about the EU interdisciplinarily and complete this programme, I took lectures related to the programme starting in the first year of university. In the EU-DPs, lectures are offered in multiple departments such as the School of Engineering, Agriculture, Law, and Letters. It is a very good experience to be able to learn about the EU from various perspectives, especially about the environmental aspect.

In addition, I made a presentation at the United Nations Environment Conference as the first Japanese youth speaker, and I joined the "The Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN)" held by the United Nations (UN) as the youngest member in the world. As such, I was able to gain valuable experiences by actively participating in a wide variety of international exchange programmes and applying what I have learned in the EU-DPs classes.

If you belong to a faculty which doesn't provide EU-DPs designated courses, you may need to take more lectures than usual, but the EU-DPs programme is satisfying enough even if you have a lot of difficulties. This programme actually motivated me to take lectures and I was able to earn more than 320 credits in four years.

In this way, EU-DPs provide an opportunity to think not only about the EU but also about connections beyond national boundaries and international frameworks and to actively learn about them. By all means, I do hope you work on your studies and set goals for your university life, and I hope you will have a fulfilling future.

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Ms Miku Hikita (completed EU Studies Undergraduate Diploma Programme in Fall 2020)
Affiliation at time of completion of the programme: School of Letters, Kyushu University
*completed EU-DP before graduation

I had aspired to study abroad in Germany before entering Kyushu University. Therefore, I often visited SALC to improve my foreign language ability and consult with them about studying abroad. At that time, I was told about the existence of EU-DPs. Considering the issue of Brexit, the issue of refugee influx into Germany, the interest in various EU situations such as terrorism that occurred frequently in those days, and living locally as an international student, I participated in this program because I thought it would be useful to know about the EU situation. Consequency, studying abroad in Germany was put on hold due to the spread of the new coronavirus, but thanks to this program, I was able to have an interest in countries other than Germany and deepen my knowledge.

Since my major was German literature and many of my majors were accredited as subjects in this programme, I didn't have much trouble taking it. Being able to study not only German literature, but also various disciplines such as history, religion, and economics was perfect for my curious personality. In the course of the programme, I had the opportunity to learn about EU-related words and read documents in German in the course of Reading of Foreign Books offered in the School of Economics. The air was different from the usual study at the School of Letters, and I was able to enjoy studying while feeling the freshness.

I have completed the EU-DPs, but I would like to study hard every day without forgetting what I have learned so far.

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Mr Masahiro Ota (completed EU Studies Undergraduate Diploma Programme in Spring 2020)
Affiliation at time of completion of the programme: School of Sciences, Kyushu University
*completed EU-DP before graduation

I found out about the EU Centre's EU-DPs programme around the time the debate on Brexit was being discussed quite vigorously. Under such circumstances, I became aware again that there are regions in Europe where various kinds of movements can be freely made, and I was very interested in the historical background of the EU, and I wondered "How is it possible to do such a thing?" As a result, I decided to think about the "local community" in my own way, and as a first step, I decided to enroll in and complete the EU-DPs programme. However, since the target courses were not offered in my department, I took almost all of the required credits from courses provided in other faculties. Therefore, I had to choose classes offered at times when there were no classes in my own department, which was somewhat of a restriction. However, as there were many courses provided in the EU-DPs programme, I took several courses each semester in a carefully planned way, so that even a student like me was able to complete it.

Through the EU-DPs programme, I studied at the School of Law, Letters, Engineering, and Agriculture. I gained basic knowledge related to things such as Roman law, German literature, architecture, and soil science, which was a great experience. And I began to think that in the EU, researchers in these fields are working on projects in cooperation, which broadened my horizons. Also, when I had the opportunity to participate in a programme called "ASEAN in Today's World 2020" to learn about regional integration at Malay University in Malaysia, I talked with students from ASEAN countries making use of my experience at EU-DPs, and I think I was able to spend a more fulfilling time.

In this way, the EU-DPs programme provides an opportunity to think about regions around the world that aim to connect beyond the boundaries of countries. If you are interested in it, I would encourage you to join us. We recommend starting with the "Fundamentals of the European Union" course, which is offered in the spring semester!

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Ms Haruka Hashimoto (completed EU Studies Graduate Diploma Programme in Fall 2018)
Affiliation at time of completion of the programme: Graduate School of Economics, Kyushu University
Career after graduation: Employment with an audit corporation by experience studying abroad

Since my first year as a university student, I have enjoyed participating in basic lectures in EU-DPs, the summer program, extension courses, and special lectures provided by EUIJ Kyushu* & Kyushu University EU Centre. In the course of learning about the history of integration, institutions of the EU, and current issues of member states, I developed my interest in Europe. Then, in my fourth year as an undergraduate, I experienced exchange and internship in Munich, Germany. After finishing 7 months of study abroad, I completed the EU-DP for graduate students. My master's thesis was on goodwill accounting, which was generated in combination with business, including a case with one German company. The EU-DP for graduate students provides specialized knowledge that allows valuable insights for our study.

Furthermore, while enrolled in the program, I had a great opportunity to enhance my German skills and visit various EU institutions in Brussels thanks to the JMCoE-Q Short Visit Scholarship. The visit was really fruitful in that I learned practical procedures of legislation and policy enforcement, grasped the concrete effects of Brexit, and gained a deeper understanding of the EU as well as making progress in German grammar, vocabulary, and speaking. During the visit, I learned and experienced so much, and I could also build up networks that will be helpful in the future. I'm confident that I will utilize the knowledge and language ability that I've acquired in this program even in my work after completion of my studies, and I will keep pursuing to become an international accounting professional versed in the European situation.

* EUIJ-Kyushu: The European Union Institute in Japan, Kyushu (EUIJ-Kyushu), one of the academic institutions worldwide affiliated with the EU, was administered by a consortium of Seinan Gakuin University, Fukuoka Women's University, and Kyushu University (two members in the extended 2015 academic year as Fukuoka Women's University and Kyushu University) and completed its operations on 31 March 2016.

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Mr Kotaro Orita (completed EU Studies Undergraduate Diploma Programme in Fall 2018)
Affiliation at time of completion of the programme: Fourth year, School of Economics, Kyushu University
Career after graduation: Employment with the prefectural government in Kyushu

I learned about the existence of the EU-DPs programme just after entering the university, and I took some EU-DPs courses from the first year. Since I had wanted to learn about the EU and Europe before entering university, I thought that Kyushu University students are fortunate to have such a well-organized education system like this programme. During the four years that I was in university, the situation surrounding Europe changed dramatically, such as Brexit and terrorism in Paris, France. Under this situation, it was a very valuable experience to be able to utilize the programme and learn about the history of the EU and the current social landscapes.

Also, before graduating I was able to study language in Spain for three weeks with funding from the "Short Visit Scholarship" offered by the EU Centre (Jean Monnet Centre of Excellence-Kyushu). I not only learned Spanish, but I also gained firsthand knowledge of the economic and social situation in Spain, and I was able to spend a very meaningful and intense time there. Although I belonged to the School of Economics in Kyushu University, I actively participated in classes in a wide range of fields, such as art and history, in addition to economics. As a result, I became interested in history and art in Spain, and it made my study abroad time even more fulfilling.

From now on, opportunities to interact with people from overseas, such as the Tokyo Olympics and Osaka-Kansai Japan Expo, will increase. With regard to these, I think the EU-DPs programme will provide a good opportunity to be interested in the EU and the world. I would like to make use of the experience gained through the EU-DPs programme and learn more about the EU in the future.

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Mr Shumpei Matsushita (Completed EU Studies Graduate Diploma Programme in Fall 2017)
Affiliation at time of completion of the programme: Graduate School of Economics, Kyushu University
Career after graduation: Ph.D. Course, Graduate School of Economics, Kyushu University

I completed the EU-DPs for graduate students, and now I am studying the EU economy as a doctoral course student. This program brought beneficial experiences to my studies because the EU-DPs can provide us with opportunities to learn about the EU systematically. Through the program, we can receive not only lectures on economics in Europe but also those on history and law, so we can learn and understand the EU from various angles. These angles were a great help to me when I wrote a master's thesis and research paper for EU-DPs. Also, the Kyushu University EU Centre holds events such as Christmas in the EU, where we can deepen our understanding of European culture.

In addition, during my registration for EU-DPs, I took part in the "Asia-Pacific EU Centres Graduate Students Conference" (that was sponsored by Kyushu University EU Centre) and made a report in English. This conference was a great opportunity for me because I could test what level my research had reached and find its remaining issues. Also, graduate students in pan-Pacific countries took part in this conference, and I met many researchers of the same generation, so I was inspired to make greater effort to study.

If you have any interest in the EU, I strongly recommend registering for EU-DPs. The experience of the EU-DPs will assist you in deepening your study and personal development.

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Mr Jasur Karshibaev (Completed EU Studies Graduate Diploma Programme in Fall 2015)
Affiliation at the time of completion of the programme: Ph.D. Course, Graduate School of Economics, Kyushu University
Career after graduation: Docent of the University of World Economy and Diplomacy, Uzbekistan

The EU Studies Diploma Programmes (EU-DPs) are excellent programs suitable both for students whose research is directly related to EU studies and for those whose focus is on other areas. I joined EUIJ-Kyushu* as a doctoral course student at Kyushu University and enjoyed the EU Studies Graduate Diploma programme during the whole period of my studies. Particularly, the EUIJ-Kyushu library, international and local conferences, lectures, seminars, and other academic events hosted by EUIJ-Kyushu served as a good platform for sharing knowledge and gaining insights on EU-related issues. In view of the fact that most courses and events are also conducted in English, international students can make use of the programme as well.

Furthermore, I enjoyed the well-established research-funding options. Particularly, thanks to a short-visit scholarship from EUIJ-Kyushu, I got an excellent chance to present and discuss the results of my research within an international conference held in London, UK. Through attending conferences and events held by EUIJ-Kyushu, I became a member of social networks that comprise a variety of people united by their interest in the EU not only from Japan, but also all over the world. Ergo, these interdisciplinary programmes fit best for Japanese and international students who are interested in building up a wide variety of networks both in Kyushu University and at the international level.

Finally, after completion of my studies and returning to my home country Uzbekistan, I got a permanent position at the University of World Economy and Diplomacy under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan. Owing to the knowledge and experience I got through the EU-DPs, I got involved in teaching and research activities about the EU and Central Asia in other higher education and research institutes. Particularly, I became a part of the research and teaching projects within the ERASMUS+ programme supported by the EU.
Thus, I highly recommend the EU Studies Diploma Programmes to international and Japanese students at Kyushu University, as taking part in the programmes will give you great opportunities for personal development and academic advancement, enhancing your own experience and career prospects.

* EUIJ-Kyushu: The European Union Institute in Japan, Kyushu (EUIJ-Kyushu), one of the academic institutions worldwide affiliated with the EU, was administered by a consortium of Seinan Gakuin University, Fukuoka Women's University, and Kyushu University (two members in the extended 2015 academic year as Fukuoka Women's University and Kyushu University) and completed its operations on 31 March 2016.

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Ms Eriko Saito (Completed EU Studies Undergraduate Diploma Programme in Fall 2015)
Affiliation at the time of completion of the programme: 21st Century Programme, Kyushu University
Career after graduation: Graduate School of Economics, Kyushu University

I registered for EU-DPs when I was a third year student after I began to consider studying abroad in France. Through the EU-DPs courses, I gained valuable opportunities to learn about Europe. I learned about the basic structure of the EU, which I was not so knowledgeable about, the overall scheme of economic matters in the EU, and about laws in France, which was not related to my major. Fortunately, after I had decided to study in France, I was awarded an "EU scholarship" provided by EUIJ-Kyushu* for students who want to study in Europe. I took advantage of the scholarship as a means to support my life and study in France.

While studying in France, the knowledge about the EU acquired through EU-DPs was really helpful to me, as the contents relating to the structure of the EU were also dealt with in some of my classes in France. Also, though writing a research paper for the completion of the programme was hard work for me, it became a motivation to research deeply about the EU and brought me a further inquiring mind.

During the years of my EU-DPs enrollment, I came to understand much more about Europe and gain a deeper sense of European culture. I would like to continue to research further and expand my connection with Europe from now on by utilizing the completion of my EU-DPs programme.
(currently enrolled in the EU-DPs for graduate students as of June 2016)

* EUIJ-Kyushu: The European Union Institute in Japan, Kyushu (EUIJ-Kyushu), one of the academic institutions worldwide affiliated with the EU, was administered by a consortium of Seinan Gakuin University, Fukuoka Women's University, and Kyushu University (two members in the extended 2015 academic year as Fukuoka Women's University and Kyushu University) and completed its operations on 31 March 2016.

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Number of Diploma Awardees

年度 Academic Year	学期 Semester	学部 Undergraduate Students	大学院 Graduate Students
		合計 Total	合計 Total
		121	159
2023	前期 Spring	1	16
2022	後期 Fall	3	-
2022	前期 Spring	2	7
2021	後期 Fall	1	4
2021	前期 Spring	1	10
2020	後期 Fall	6	-
2020	前期 Spring	2	8
2019	後期 Fall	1	-
2019	前期 Spring	-	12
2018	後期 Fall	2	2
2018	前期 Spring	-	10
2017	後期 Fall	-	3
2017	前期 Spring	-	13
2016	後期 Fall	1	2
2016	前期 Spring	-	13
2015	後期 Fall	11	1
2015	前期 Spring	6	14
2014	後期 Fall	18	7
2014	前期 Spring	1	7
2013	後期 Fall	16	-
2013	前期 Spring	7	5
2012	後期 Fall	19	3
2012	前期 Spring	3	14
2011	後期 Fall	20	2
2011	前期 Spring	-	6

* The EU-DPs from 2011 to 2015 academic year was provided by EUIJ-Kyushu.

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EDUCATION

About EU-DPs

Voices from Students

Number of Diploma Awardees