The Faculty of International Resource Sciences promotes distinctive education and research, serving as an international hub of resource science education. Based on a high degree of expertise and global human networks, we are the only faculty in Japan offering a systematic education in resource sciences, covering everything from the mechanisms of resource generation to exploration, development and production.

Leading Team of Resource Science Experts

Building on advanced expertise and an extensive network of international contacts, Akita University offers a unique educational experience to provide a comprehensive, structured curriculum in resource sciences, spanning from the mechanisms of resource generation to exploration, development and production. By bringing together researchers and engineers on the forefront of their specialties, we operate as a global center of resource science education.

Interdisciplinary Approach to Resource Science Education

Our faculty consists of three closely connected departments that range across social sciences, humanities, natural science and engineering fields. We offer an interdisciplinary curriculum that encourages study beyond any single specialization to foster, for example, experts in resource geoscience who are well-versed in mineral economics, or resource policy specialists with an understanding of geology and engineering.

Specialized Education in English

We offer a cosmopolitan academic environment in which English is used on a daily basis for interaction with faculty and students from many countries, and for the presentation of research findings in international forums. First and second year students gain basic English language proficiency through an intensive English for Academic Purposes (I-EAP) program, before beginning to take specialized courses taught entirely in English from the second year.

Compulsory Resource Science Fieldwork Abroad

With the aim of fostering the practical ability to address a range of challenges encountered at the frontlines of resource development, we require all students to complete Resource Sciences Fieldwork Abroad, a four-week practical program. In combination with Creative Practice of International Resource Science taken before departing and after returning to Akita, this program prepares students for an independent graduation research project that they undertake in the final year.

Cutting-Edge Research in Resource Sciences

Our faculty boasts top-of-the-line facilities and equipment, which are available to students under the supervision of their instructors. Also, our faculty members pursue ground-breaking research with international partners, enabling students to benefit from access to these new research insights as they are acquired.