PhD in Transdisciplinary Science and Engineering Program (Development Science)

The Transdisciplinary Science and Engineering Program, with a specialization in Development Science, is a doctoral degree at Hiroshima University taught in English, running for three years with admission in October and April. Hiroshima University is a national institution located in Hiroshima, comprising 12 schools and 4 graduate schools, and it was selected as one of 13 universities for Japan's Top Global University Project in 2014 and one of 13 universities for the WISE doctoral education program in 2018. Development science, as pursued within a transdisciplinary science and engineering framework, generally examines how scientific and engineering knowledge can be applied to problems of economic, social, and infrastructural development, often in a global or international context. A transdisciplinary approach draws on multiple fields at once, such as engineering, environmental science, economics, and social science, rather than confining study to a single discipline, and doctoral research in this area can address topics like infrastructure development, technology transfer, resource management, and the application of engineering solutions to development challenges in different regions of the world. Given Hiroshima University's founding emphasis on contributing to a peaceful and diversified global community, a development-focused doctoral track fits within the university's broader stated mission of applying research and education to international and social challenges. Graduates of programs in development science and transdisciplinary engineering typically pursue careers in international development organizations, engineering consultancies, government agencies, or research institutions working on infrastructure and development policy, as well as continuing in academic research. The program's doctoral structure centers on original research leading to a dissertation, supported by coursework and seminars, and is designed for students who intend to apply science and engineering training to development-related work after graduation.