2026 UTokyo Global Unit Courses: Application Now Available

11 February 2026

The University of Tokyo is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the 2026 UTokyo Global Unit Courses (UTokyo GUC): Summer Program, a short-term academic program offering students the opportunity to study at the University of Tokyo and experience life in Japan.

Detailed program information is available at:
▶ UTokyo GUC: Summer Program

UTokyo GUC offers short-term intensive courses taught entirely in English by leading scholars from the University of Tokyo. Course offerings span a wide range of disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, and STEM fields. Japanese language courses are also available. Most courses are completed within one to two weeks, with students earning Global Units and a certificate for each completed course.

Highlights and Updates for 2026

  • Partner Institution Discount: A 20% discount is available for students from UTokyo partner institutions, allowing participation at nearly the same tuition rate as the previous year.
  • Featured Course: Museums in Contemporary Japan explores museums in Tokyo as cultural institutions through field-based learning.
  • Continuing 2-Unit Courses: Well-received 2-unit courses, including an AI-related course, will continue in 2026, offering greater academic flexibility.
  • New Design-Focused 2-Unit Courses: Introduction to Changemaking and Design for Social Impact will be offered by the same faculty members as in the previous year.
  • New Course Offerings: Additional courses will address topics related to the environment, political economy, and contemporary Japanese society.
  • Continuing Courses: Popular courses from previous years will return, incorporating activities including fieldwork, workshops, projects, and discussions.

Newly Launched GUC Programs Starting in 2026

Beginning in 2026, UTokyo GUC will expand learning opportunities beyond campus through new experiential programs. Further details are available at the links below. For inquiries, please contact the respective program directly.

▶ UTokyo GUC: Field Study Program
▶ UTokyo GUC: Internship Experience Program

Application Information

Applications for the on-campus UTokyo GUC: Summer Program are currently open. Applications for other GUC programs will open at a later date.
All GUC programs share the same application deadline:
🕓 16:00 JST, Monday, March 16, 2026