#Japan #Kodaira #Musashino Art University #Value Creation Program #Creative Thinking

Musashino Art University Launches Enrollment for the 4th Term of VCP School

Musashino Art University, located in Kodaira, Tokyo, has officially opened applications for the 4th term of its Value Creation Program (VCP School). Designed to enhance creative thinking skills acquired through art and design education, this innovative program prepares individuals to apply their newfound knowledge in real-world business settings. This year, the program will run into the 2025 academic year and will continue to receive recognition as a qualified general education training course by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. Participants who complete the program will receive a certification of completion.

Background of the Program

In today’s complex and unpredictable society, the ability to identify problems and view them from fresh perspectives has become essential. The VCP School transcends traditional art and design education, focusing on practical skills that encourage creative thinking. Launched in November 2022, this program has garnered positive feedback, and the call for applications for the 4th term is officially open.

With over 90 years of expertise in shaping education, the university’s VCP School emphasizes multifaceted perspectives through the development of observation, critique, and conceptualization skills. The curriculum fosters the ability to build relationships with others and enhances the practical know-how needed to implement solutions in a dynamic environment, thereby cultivating individuals capable of creating value in changing circumstances.

The program is based on courses from the university's graduate school and adopts a project-based learning (PBL) approach. Over a condensed 10-day timeframe, participants will gain insights and practical knowledge necessary for initiating new ventures and addressing societal challenges.

Additionally, from the 2023 academic year, participants may receive a significant subsidy from Hello Work, covering up to 40% of the fees upon meeting certain requirements.

What Makes VCP Unique?

Key Features

• - Creative Thinking Skills: Develop essential skills such as problem identification and setting, rooted in creative thinking.
• - Certification Program: This program is officially recognized, enabling participants to receive a completion certificate from the university.
• - Hands-on Learning: Over 60 hours of intensive training split across ten days equips participants with applicable business practices.
• - Diverse Techniques: Unlike conventional programs, participants explore methods from practical art and design, learning approaches unique to the artistic community.
• - Mentorship Opportunities: Receive guidance from creative professionals who are graduates of the university, allowing networking with like-minded individuals.
• - Community Building: Post-completion, there exists a structured community that transcends conventional corporate networks, fostering collaborative opportunities.
• - Recognition: Endorsed by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), further validating its educational merit.

Ideal Candidates

This program is aimed at a diverse group of professionals:

• - Individuals aiming to propose new businesses or services within companies.
• - Potential next-generation leaders eager to develop their creative capacities.
• - Startup entrepreneurs looking to innovate.
• - Public sector officials addressing local issues.
• - Anyone seeking to leverage creative thinking for social innovation.

Skills Acquired

Upon completion of the program, participants will be equipped with:

• - Value Creation Skills: The ability to develop new business initiatives.
• - Problem Identification Skills: Skills to observe the environment and discern key issues.
• - Leadership Capabilities: Leading initiatives using creative thinking.
• - Expressive Skills: The ability to communicate ideas effectively.
• - Conceptual Skills: Solving complex challenges using artistic and design methodologies.

Program Schedule

• - Duration: From November 29 to December 6, 2025, with additional sessions through early 2026.
• - Venue: Musashino Art University Ichigaya Campus, Tokyo.
• - Fees: 350,000 yen (including tax) with potential financial aid from Hello Work.
• - Deadline for Applications: October 19, 2025.

Course Instructors

Esteemed faculty from the university, including experts in creative innovation and business design, will lead the program:

• - Atsushi Hasegawa (Creative Innovation Professor)
• - Yukiya Hagiwara (Creative Director)
• - Hiroshi Iwazaki (Business Designer)
• - Takuma Ishikawa (Artist and Art Critic)

Additional Information

For those interested in the VCP School or seeking more details, online informational sessions are being held to explain the curriculum and answer participant questions. Join these sessions to discover how this program can unlock your creative potential.

For more information on enrollment and to access the application form, please visit the official university website or contact the Ichigaya Campus Office directly.