From March 17 to 21, 2025, KOMA Kyoko (Vice President, International Affairs), OYAMA Rumiko (Deputy Director, Headquarters of International Collaboration), and OZAWA Yoshiaki (Manager of the Office of International Collaboration), visited The University of Manchester and University College London (UCL) in England. During the visits, they held discussions with a view to expanding the destinations for the top university study abroad program, which is being promoted by President UENO Masao (head of the Organization for International Collaboration) and is scheduled to be reorganized in AY2027.
Exterior view of the University of Manchester
Talks with the University of Manchester
The University of Manchester is one of the universities with which Meiji University has signed an exchange agreement and has been ranked in the top 40 in the QS World University Rankings* over the past 10 years. During this visit, discussions were held about the expansion of existing exchange programs and English language requirements. As a result, although it is difficult to relax the language standard necessary for studying abroad, it was confirmed that opportunities for study abroad will increase through the use of English preparation courses.
They also gathered information on Japanese language education at this university and exchanged opinions with students who are interested in Japanese culture and plan to study at Meiji University. The characteristics and present status of Meiji University and relevant procedures were explained.
*QS World University Rankings: A ranking of universities around the world published annually by Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), a British education evaluation agency.
Exterior view of University College London (UCL)
Talks with University College London (UCL)
In response to a proposal from Mr. Victor Chu, chair of the UCL Council to establish a new scholarship program to prevent Japanese students from having to give up studying abroad owing to financial difficulties, discussions were held regarding mutual exchange programs between UCL and Meiji University. As an initial step, the two universities agreed to conduct a trial program of mutual participation in summer schools to lay the foundation for further exchange in the future.
Future prospects
Through these visits, concrete steps were confirmed toward creating an environment that will enable more students to study abroad by strengthening cooperative relationships with The University of Manchester and UCL. Going forward, we plan to proceed with the design of short-term (medium- to long-term) study abroad programs, establish scholarship programs, and further strengthen our ties with both universities.
Meiji University will continue to work to expand global educational opportunities and create an environment where students can thrive on the world stage.