Overview of Keio University
Keio University, officially known as Keio Gijuku, was founded in 1858 in Tokyo, Japan, by visionary educator Yukichi Fukuzawa. As Japan’s oldest private university, Keio embodies a tradition of academic excellence and innovation at the heart of Japan’s capital. Recognized as a comprehensive, research-intensive institution, Keio operates across six major campuses, serving a diverse student body of approximately 30,000 undergraduate and graduate students. Its rich history and scale position Keio as a premier destination for higher learning in Asia.
Academic Strengths and Structure
Keio University is renowned for its robust programs in economics, business, medicine, law, science and technology, and the humanities. Signature offerings include the Faculty of Medicine—consistently ranked among Japan’s best—and the Faculty of Economics, which has produced numerous business leaders. The university adopts a dynamic, interdisciplinary educational approach that encourages critical thinking and innovation. Keio is a research powerhouse, recognized in the QS World University Rankings (top 200 globally), with prolific contributions in life sciences, information technology, and media studies. It actively engages in partnerships such as the Top Global University Project and participates in global academic consortia, facilitating joint degrees and extensive student exchanges. The university also supports notable achievements in entrepreneurship and industry collaboration throughout Japan and abroad.
Student Life and Community
Student life at Keio is vibrant and integrative, featuring over 400 student-run clubs and societies ranging from sports and music to cultural and academic interests. Annual events like the Mita Festival foster campus spirit, while extensive student support services promote well-being and career development. Keio champions diversity and internationalization, welcoming over 1,700 international students and fostering a globally minded community. On-campus housing, modern sports facilities, and a thriving arts scene provide students with well-rounded experiences beyond the classroom, cultivating a rich and inclusive environment.
Mission, Vision, and Values
Driven by the philosophy of jitsugaku—“empirical science”—Keio University is committed to nurturing innovative leaders and responsible global citizens. The institution promotes equity, sustainability, and lifelong learning, empowering individuals to create positive social impact on a global scale.
