University Overview

Akita International University, AIU, is a four-year liberal arts university located in Akita prefecture in the Tohoku region of northern Japan.
Public university corporation established in April 2004 by the local prefectural government.
Offers bachelor’s degrees in Global Business, Global Studies, and Global Connectivity Program, and master’s degrees in English Language Teaching, Japanese Language Teaching, and Global Communication Practices.
The undergraduate program at AIU offers all subject matter courses taught in English, only, the first program in Japan to do so. Foreign language courses in five languages as well as Japanese for speakers of other languages are offered in part in the target language.
Non-native English speaking students are prepared for use of English in the classroom through our intensive English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Program.
Available student activities include 47 student clubs (as of AY 2022), community outreach, and local immersion activities.
88% on-campus housing for Japanese and international students bringing students from various backgrounds into direct contact and maximizing the benefit of international living as well as studying.
See our “Quick Facts” to learn more about AIU.

Our Location

AIU is located in Akita city, the capital of Akita Prefecture, which provides the opportunity to become immersed in the local culture.
Sports facilities, hiking, cycling, golf courses, and a large shopping mall, are all in the vicinity of our campus. The university organizes various events, activities, and field trips providing students with hands-on experience in Japanese culture.
Akita prefecture is known for its natural beauty and resources. The university is located close to ski areas, scenic hiking opportunities, and the Sea of Japan coastline. Akita is particularly famous in Japan for producing the country’s most delicious rice and sake.
Easily accessible from Akita Airport, with flights to Tokyo, Osaka, Hokkaido, and Aichi.

International Approach

All AIU degree-seeking students are required to spend one year abroad at one of our Partner Universities around the world. A significant portion of the international students studying here are exchange students from our partner institutions, who participate in our Japanese Language and Japan Studies courses, or take any of the other courses offered in our undergraduate program.
In Fall 2023, AIU welcomed 160 international students from 28 countries and regions, a strong indication of its commitment to intercultural education.

Rankings and Recognition

#2 Engagement
THE Japan University Rankings 2023
#12 Environment
THE Japan University Rankings 2023
#15 Best University in Japan
THE Japan University Rankings 2023
#1 Small University
Daigaku Tsushin, 2022
#1 Global University
Daigaku Tsushin, 2021
Top Global University
Leading Internationalization Category (Japanese Ministry of Education)

Akita International University (AIU) has been recognized as one of the top universities in Japan for its uniqueness and innovative approach. Since its establishment in 2004, the university has been highly regarded and received constant attention from the public.

As a leading Liberal Arts University in Japan, we place emphasis on well-rounded humanities education. As a result, the university is also known for the high employment rate of its graduates.