Tama University
Founding Principles
Tama University was founded in 1989, a milestone year for Japan and the beginning of the Heisei Era in the Japanese calendar. Since then, the world has experienced a pivotal period of transformation. At Tama, we recognize that progress moves swiftly, and we understand the importance of staying ahead of the curve. Our university encourages students to pursue their aspirations through an educational experience that is international, interdisciplinary, and practical.
Tama University Educational Concepts
International
Globalization is no longer a concept confined to academic circles. More than just a buzzword, it is rapidly becoming a lived reality both at the national level and also on a personal scale. Our growing interconnectedness has made daily life more dynamic and learning more accessible than ever before. At the same time, it has introduced a new set of challenges. At Tama University, students develop a broad knowledge base and practical communication skills that prepare them to actively engage with these challenges — not only within Japan but also on the global stage.
Interdisciplinary
Real-world challenges and intellectual problems are often multifaceted and complex, rarely fully understood through the lens of a single academic discipline. While specialization allows for deep insight within a particular field, overspecialization can lead to fragmentation and missed opportunities to gain broader understanding through perspectives from other areas of study. An interdisciplinary approach enables the integration of knowledge from diverse fields, fostering a more comprehensive and nuanced view of the world. At Tama University, interdisciplinary education is both the foundation and the goal. Faculty members with expertise across a wide range of disciplines collaborate with students in small, discussion-based classes to explore both intellectual questions and practical issues.
Practical
Universities are sometimes criticized as being ivory towers isolated from the practical concerns of everyday life. At Tama University, we are committed to providing an education that prepares students to engage meaningfully with the real world beyond the classroom. Access to cutting-edge academic research and the latest developments in knowledge is essential. But just as important is grounding that knowledge in real-world perspectives drawn from a range of industries and professions. This approach ensures that learning remains relevant to the social context in which students live and work. Our faculty reflects this commitment: it is composed of experts with diverse backgrounds spanning both academic disciplines and professional fields.
At Tama University, students pursue their aspirations through small, discussion-based classes led by faculty dedicated to fostering learning that is international, interdisciplinary, and practical.
