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General Studies

Extra knowledge that opens up greater possibilities

At Fukuoka Prefectural University, each student takes a number of General Studies courses. These courses are designed to complement the student's specialized subject and act as a platform for post-graduation lifelong learning. This commitment to General Studies stems from our desire to provide a well-rounded education and richer learning experience. Part of this equation is to encourage students to develop a broad range of academic interests, and to prevent them from focusing too narrowly on one particular discipline. To this end, General Studies courses emphasize the importance of intercultural exchange and adopt a wide variety of innovative teaching methods, including tutorials, small-group lectures and interactive language laboratory classes.

An international perspective

An international perspective is required if one is to study concepts such as the borderless economy and global problems to do with the environment and so on. At FPU, our students are provided with numerous opportunities to study abroad and a range of on-campus foreign language classes. These aspects of our curriculum are designed to promote the development of experts capable of asserting themselves on the global stage.

Information processing skills

As important as an international perspective are the skills required to participate in and contribute to today's information society. At FPU, our students are able to become proficient in the use of the latest software as well as the most advanced presentation and research techniques.

Self-study and independent research skills

In order to facillitate the development of their study skills, our students are provided with small-group seminars focusing on proper academic writing and presentation techniques. The university also publishes an original text for further guidance on these points.

A healthy lifestyle

The university defines a healthy lifestyle in terms of a proper balance between the mind and body. The contribution made by physical exercise and team games to the reduction of stress and the development of interpersonal relationships is held to be self-apparent, and FPU does all it can to promote this aspect of university life.

Liberal arts education

In order to fulfill one's potential and make an active contribution to society, certain abilities must be acquired. The individual must, for example, understand...

1)...the causes of social problems.
2)...social systems in terms of their structure and how they work.
3)...psychological mechanisms.
4)...the fundamentals of all aspects of society and the human condition.

Moreover, an in-depth understanding of life and science is necessary if one is to fully understand medicine and nursing, just as an appreciation of politics and society is necessary in order to fully grasp the nuances of social welfare. Taken as a whole, the above points may be regarded as the basic knowledge needed to become a productive member of society. FPU therefore provides liberal arts subjects such as philosophy and biology, as well as classes on the environment, gender issues and so on, in order to respond to the needs of individual students as well as the needs of society.