[A rare "science and engineering" distance learning program in Japan: The full details of the "Department of Information Science and Engineering" proposed by Okayama University of Science]
Introduction: 100% online from enrollment to graduation.
The Department of Information Science and Engineering, Faculty of Information Science and Engineering, Okayama University of Science's Distance Learning Division, is characterized by its learning style that is 100% online, with no on-campus classes required from enrollment to graduation.
"I want to become an engineer, but I don't have time to attend university because of work and household chores," "I live in a rural area, so there are no science and engineering universities nearby"—a new option that meets these diverse modern needs. With a style that eliminates the need to commute, your room will be transformed into a cutting-edge IT lab connecting you to the world.
1. Providing "high-quality education" online that is comparable to that offered in-person schools.
You might be worried about the quality of education with distance learning, but there's no need to worry. This department is 100% online from enrollment to graduation, yet its curriculum is closely linked to that of Okayama University of Science's on-campus program.
Many of the instructors are active researchers who also teach in the on-campus program. They provide not just a repetition of knowledge, but essential and in-depth learning from experts. Upon graduation, students receive the same "Bachelor of Science and Engineering" degree as those who attend the on-campus program, and its value is no different.
2. Learning Style: A "Simple Method" starting with 10-minute videos
The learning method is simple and efficient. The following features have been incorporated to ensure that you can continue learning without difficulty, even amidst a busy daily life.
| 10-minute on-demand lesson | One lesson is completed by watching six lesson videos, each approximately 10 minutes long, and then completing the subsequent quizzes and report assignments. |
| Flexible scheduling | You can earn 2 credits by taking all 15 lessons and passing the exam. |
| 24 hours a day, anytime, anywhere | As long as you have an internet connection, you can study at times that suit your lifestyle, such as during your commute, lunch break, or late at night. |
| No schooling required. | The entire program, from enrollment to graduation, is entirely online, meaning you can earn all your credits without ever having to come to campus. |
3. Four specialized fields that cover the cutting edge.
In the Department of Information Science and Engineering, you can learn about four fields that are highly in demand in modern society through an interdisciplinary online learning approach.
| Information Systems Field | You will acquire foundational technologies for the internet society, the mechanisms of web systems, and software development management skills. |
| AI technology field | You will learn cutting-edge technologies, from popular Python programming to image generation AI and the mechanisms of large-scale language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT. |
| Business Data Science Field | In addition to statistical analysis, you will acquire practical business knowledge such as financial planning and financial statement analysis. |
| Digital Games and Media Sector | We hone creative expressive skills through game programming, animation, video production techniques, and more. |
By studying across multiple fields, you can design a learning experience tailored to your own career.
4. Outstanding cost performance
The low financial barrier is also a major attraction. Tuition is set at about one-quarter of that of a regular school, allowing students to receive a full-fledged science and engineering education for 350,000 yen per year (380,000 yen including the entrance fee in the first year).
Furthermore, to allow working adults to study at their own pace, we have a system in place where, even if you are unable to graduate in four years and the period is extended, you only need to pay for the missing credits from the fifth year onward (11,000 yen per credit).
5. Strong career support and student support
Okayama University of Science is known as a university with strong employment prospects, boasting one of the highest actual employment rates in the country (ranked 96th nationwide in Toyo Keizai Online's "Universities with Truly Strong Employment Prospects" 2024). Students in the distance learning program can also receive comprehensive support online from this proven "Career Support Center."
| Online individual consultation | You can receive direct advice from experts via video call. |
| Scout-type system (Okayama University of Science view) | By publishing your resume online, you can receive direct approaches from companies. |
| Agent-based support (Okayama University of Science Bridge) | A specialized agent will provide thorough support until you receive a job offer. |
Additionally, for those who have a gap in their knowledge of mathematics or English, we offer free "pre-enrollment education" content that allows them to review from the middle and high school levels.
6. Entrance Examination and Learning Environment
There is no written examination for admission. Admission decisions are made solely based on document review. The "Statement of Purpose" is given particular importance, and the applicant's motivation to learn proactively is a key point of evaluation.
The only requirements for this course are a Windows 11 laptop and a stable internet connection. Students will also receive a free Microsoft Office 365 license, providing strong support for their learning in terms of tools.
Conclusion
Okayama University of Science's distance learning program is not just about watching videos. It utilizes the latest systems, including question-and-answer functions, message boards, and even an entrance ceremony using the metaverse, creating an "online campus where you don't feel isolated."
"100% online from enrollment to graduation." Transform your room into a state-of-the-art IT lab and begin your journey to becoming a cutting-edge IT professional!
PEOPLE
Through a rigorous online learning system guided by active researchers, students aim to acquire cutting-edge technologies in information science and engineering and achieve true skill development.
| List of faculties / departments | |
| Faculty of Information Science and Engineering | Department of Information Science and Engineering Capacity 200 people |
| Contact information, address, etc. | |
| Postal Code | 700-0005 |
| Address | 1-1 Ridaicho, Kita-ku, Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture |
| Department | Correspondence Education Administration Department, Correspondence Education Administration Section |
| Phone Number | 086-256-9778 |
| Other Information | |
| Official page | https://online.ous.ac.jp/ |
