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Japan Women's University to Launch a Fashion Design Department in 2028

Japan Women's University (JWU), located in Bunkyo, Tokyo, has announced plans to establish a new Fashion Design Department (tentative name) set to launch in April 2028. This innovative department will be rooted in the institution's prestigious Faculty of Home Economics, particularly its Clothing Study program, which has long held a top position in the country.

The new Fashion Design Department aims to redefine the concept of fashion with a focus on sustainable values and the creation of new significance in the field. Fashion encompasses not only clothing but also accessories and the societal and cultural phenomena surrounding them. Design, on the other hand, refers to the planning, conceptualizing, and creative processes that address social challenges. By integrating these two worlds, the department aspires to tackle pressing issues related to sustainability and diverse social concerns.

Learning Features

One of the most notable aspects of the Fashion Design Department is its interdisciplinary approach, merging four areas: design, textiles, art, and business. Students will acquire knowledge and skills related to the design of garments and accessories while examining their impact on human life and social structures from both humanities and natural science perspectives.

This comprehensive education will allow students to cultivate specialized knowledge in the fashion realm, enhancing their ability to ethically and critically analyze relevant societal challenges. The curriculum will also include collaboration with various stakeholders to solve design problems and foster new value in contemporary society.

To achieve these goals, the department plans to introduce new courses focusing on regional and corporate collaboration as well as international perspectives. The department will consist of one faculty and one major, aptly named the Fashion Design Department (tentative).

Planned qualifications for graduates of this program include:

• - Textile Management Expert (TA)
• - Junior High School and High School Teacher (Family Science)
• - Museum Curator
• - Textile Product Quality Management Expert (TES)
• - Color Certification, Color Coordinator, among others.

It should be noted that the establishment of teacher training courses is subject to the Ministry of Education's review, which may affect the timeline and implementation details.

Future Prospects

As the development of the Fashion Design Department progresses, more detailed information will be communicated through official press releases and the JWU website.

Message from JWU President Sato Shinohara

In the words of Sato Shinohara, the President of Japan Women's University, "Humans have become who they are by wearing clothes. The act of donning clothing protects the body from the harsh external environment while symbolizing culture, individuality, and identity. It is perhaps the most immediate form of design. In contemporary society, we must also consider the aspects of production, consumption, and distribution regarding clothing."

This understanding provides a comprehensive view of fashion—considering clothing, accessories, and its broader cultural implications. The forthcoming Fashion Design Department is envisioned as a platform for exploring well-being in the context of fashion as our immediate environment.

Ongoing University Reforms

Japan Women's University has been undergoing continuous reforms since its 120th anniversary in 2021. The university merged campuses for improved resources and student experiences and introduced new faculties and research programs over the past years. Following the establishment of the Faculty of Architecture and the Faculty of Food Science, JWU has plans for a new Faculty of Economics in 2027 and the Fashion Design Department in 2028, continuing its commitment to enhancing women's education.

For more detailed information about Japan Women's University and its latest developments, please visit JWU's official website.

To access the press release, you can download it here.