This degree program is a collaboration between the Graduate School of Information Science and Technology, the Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, and the Graduate School of Engineering Science of Osaka University. The curriculum has been designed focusing around interdisciplinary research based on in-depth discussions (Seido Jukugi). In order to foster a new generation of leaders, particular emphasis is placed on developing students’ autonomy and initiative.
Students are awarded a degree certificate specifying completion of the Humanware Innovation Program if they meet the following criteria: (1) they complete all academic requirements of the program requirements; (2) they receive a degree in the field of their majors; and (3) they are certified through an examination by the program committee as being a doctoral expert who can lead the novel innovation.
［Major components of the educational program］
- Humanware Basic Subjects
- These subjects provide students with the fundamental knowledge of information science, life science, and cognitive/brain science. Some are designed specifically for this program and the others are offered by each graduate school.
- Interdisciplinary Studies（Seido Jukugi）
- Students are given opportunities to pursue research across three different graduate schools, unrestricted by conventional disciplinary boundaries. In their first two years, students experience research lab rotations and in-depth discussion in research retreats. From third year, they pursue interdisciplinary research. We provide an opportunity for an interdisciplinary research project in which they take the lead at all stages: research planning, funding proposal, conducting research, and reporting. There are also opportunities to participate in interdisciplinary research projects involving faculty members from different graduate schools. Students thus interact with both students from other fields and faculty across three graduate schools, developing a routine of in-depth discussion employing a wide range of perspectives, in an environment in which autonomy and self-direction are valued.
- Industry Partnership Subjects
- These subjects train students to incorporate industry-based perspectives on innovation. They begin at first-year level with an intensive course held over several days and involving classes on industrial fundamentals and visits to companies. This is followed by the Humanware Innovation Creation seminars, in which a variety of guest speakers from companies and research institutes present topics such as innovation, research and development strategy, and project formulation and planning. Through these seminars, students develop a broad-based outlook on innovation for society as a whole. From third-year level, students participate in practice-based seminars delivered jointly with corporate partners and covering topics such as strategies for interdisciplinary research and development, the formulation, planning, management and implementation of interdisciplinary projects, and the development of project findings as industrial technology.
- Others
- Students are supported by three advisers: two are faculty members from different graduate schools and the other is an expert from the affiliated companies. Advisers bi-annually offer advice on matters such as research progress and career paths. Other educational systems available to students include overseas internships, summer camps, and research caravans.
