#Japan #digital health #SDGs #Okayama #Okayama University

Okayama University's Digital Health Workforce Development Program

Okayama University, located in Okayama City, has launched its Digital Health Workforce Development Program for the 2025 academic year, which will run from October 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026. This initiative is part of the university's commitment to fostering expertise in the digital health sector.

Program Overview

The program aims to cultivate professionals who possess specialized knowledge in both IT and healthcare. These individuals will be capable of spearheading new business developments in the digital health industry, improving operations in medical and caregiving facilities, and promoting digital transformation (DX) within these organizations.

Participants will engage with courses structured around four major subject areas: healthcare, IT, entrepreneurship and business management, and practical education aimed at promoting human resource exchanges.

This program not only underscores the importance of interdisciplinary learning but also aligns with the goals of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasizing the role of education and innovation in addressing global challenges.

Application Details

Interested applicants can enroll online, with applications closing on January 9, 2026. The program will be conducted through a combination of live online lectures and in-person sessions, although the online format is the primary method of delivery.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for enrollment, candidates must have a university entrance qualification and belong to at least one of the following categories:
1. Healthcare professionals or those expected to obtain relevant national qualifications in caregiving.
2. IT professionals with work experience or intending to work as programmers or engineers.
3. Individuals with a strong interest in digital health entrepreneurship.

Curriculum and Costs

The curriculum is designed to provide comprehensive training, and a detailed outline can be accessed here. The tuition fee is set at 90,000 yen. However, a reduced fee of 45,000 yen is available for students and faculty of Okayama University.

There are approximately 50 spots available in the program, so interested parties are encouraged to secure their enrollment soon. More detailed information about the application process can be found on the program's homepage.

Certification and Acknowledgment

Participants who successfully complete the required hours and achieve satisfactory results will receive a certificate of completion from Okayama University. However, it's important to note that this certification does not translate into academic credits or a degree from the university.

Contact Information

For further inquiries regarding the Digital Health Workforce Development Program, please contact:
Okayama University Graduate School of Health Systems Integration Science
Digital Health Workforce Development Program Office
Attn: Natsume
700-8530 Okayama, Okayama City, Tsushima Naka 3-1-1
E-mail: natsume-h◎okayama-u.ac.jp (replace ◎ with @)

This initiative reflects Okayama University's dedication to sustainable development and building a robust educational framework that meets evolving societal needs.