Agricultural science began as a study that mainly focused on food production but has now developed into a study that considers a wider range of issues, including the principles and mechanisms of “living organisms” and the earth’s "environment". Therefore, the School of Agriculture conducts education and research from various perspectives, focusing on the three main areas of study: food, environment, and life.
A major feature of the faculty is the breadth of the research, ranging from science to the humanities. Scientific research areas include "improving crop varieties to increase yield" as well as "studying microbial cells to elucidate the mechanisms of life," and "developing environmentally friendly plastics", while humanities research includes topics such as "developing production and distribution systems that can contribute to regional development". Through these diverse approaches, we conduct leading research in each field that contributes to society in many ways, from enriching people’s daily lives to solving social issues.
Another distinctive feature of our faculty is the emphasis on enhancing practical learning opportunities. Most students in the faculty are able to experience on-farm training at Kurokawa Farm during their first year, and then in subsequent years, they participate in various experiments, practical training, and fieldwork in their departments and individual laboratories. Students at both undergraduate and graduate level actively conduct research making full use of the well-equipped research facilities. Through such practical learning, we aim to give our students the ability to use the specialized knowledge gained in lectures to solve various problems. Furthermore, with the resolution of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are gradually resuming overseas educational and research activities. Students can learn about the agriculture and culture in other countries through study abroad programs, and deepen their learning in specialized fields by joining research laboratories at the host universities. Many students also travel abroad to present their research at academic conferences.
I think that the study of "agriculture" is closely related to all aspects of society and your own daily life. So, I would be very happy if you can use the knowledge and experience you gain in School of Agriculture to make better choices and decisions about various aspects of your life.
TAKENAKA ASAKO