Tokyo University's Disaster Solution Executive Program
Tokyo University’s Graduate School of Interdisciplinary Information Studies is holding information sessions for those interested in enrolling in the 2026 intake of the Disaster Solution Executive Program (DSEP). This program is specifically designed for working professionals looking to enhance their skills in disaster response and management.
Program Overview
The DSEP, often referred to as "ディーセップ" in Japanese, aims to cultivate resilient leaders capable of handling various threats such as natural disasters, infectious diseases, cyber-attacks, and geopolitical risks. The curriculum is structured around eight critical areas of disaster response, incorporating both natural and social sciences.
Participants can expect to engage with a wide array of topics, from cybersecurity and forensic studies to organizational crisis management. This comprehensive approach equips leaders with the tools needed to navigate complex challenges effectively.
Previous Enrollment and Participants
In its first year, the program attracted 28 participants, including 17 corporate leaders from listed companies. The second cohort consisted of a more diverse group, including doctors, lawyers, and politicians, resulting in a total of 30 participants. The increasing number of international attendees further enhances the program’s diversity and global perspective.
Information Session Details
There will be two sessions to facilitate prospective students:
- - Session 1: December 20, 2025, from 10:00 to 11:00 AM.
- - Session 2: January 10, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:00 AM.
Both sessions will cover the same material, so participants can choose either date that suits them best. The meeting will take place at the Tokyo University Institute of Industrial Science’s conference room, with online attendance via Zoom also available to reach participants nationwide.
Who Should Attend?
Anyone interested in the program is welcome to join the sessions, regardless of their current occupation or experience level. The aim is to provide insights into the program's curriculum, career opportunities post-completion, and networking possibilities.
What to Expect During the Session
The agenda is designed to give a comprehensive overview of the DSEP, including:
- - An outline of the program's objectives;
- - Testimonials from former students of both the first and second cohorts;
- - A Q&A segment where attendees can get answers to their specific inquiries;
- - An individual consultation opportunity for personalized discussions.
Faculty Insights
Professor Sōjun Numata, a co-leader of the program, encourages prospective students to join and collectively tackle Japan’s pressing issues. He highlights the excitement found in collaborating with peers from various backgrounds, addressing challenges, and formulating actionable solutions. DSEP focuses on experiential learning—students will not only acquire knowledge through lectures but also have the opportunity to develop their research topics and articulate their ideas in written form.
The program is designed to foster solid networks that allow for collaboration even in non-crisis times, which is one of the program's significant advantages. Participants from diverse fields, including business, government, and healthcare, create a rich learning environment.
Student Testimonials
Participants from previous cohorts have echoed their satisfaction with the program:
- - "I gained perspectives that I would never achieve within my industry alone."
- - "Engaging in discussions with professionals from vastly different fields was stimulating."
- - "The knowledge from lectures connected seamlessly with practical applications."
- - "Topics that were once challenging became clearer through research."
- - "I often felt that disaster management became a personal responsibility."
Many students leave DSEP with a broadened horizon, valuable connections, and enhanced skills essential for effective leadership in disaster management.
Program Structure for 2026
The next DSEP will run from April 2026 to February 2027, offering both online and in-person learning options. Students can earn a certificate of completion from Tokyo University. The enrollment fee is 880,000 yen (for those with a recommendation) or 1,100,000 yen (without a recommendation). A total of 18 slots are available, with a minimum of 10 participants required for the course to commence.
For further information, interested candidates can refer to
DSEP Information.
Contact Information
For inquiries, reach out to: