#Japan #Student Support #education reform #Atsugi #Shohoku College

Shohoku Junior College Announces 2026 Enrollment

Shohoku Junior College, located in Atsugi City, Japan, has embarked on a new journey to enhance its educational offerings as it invites applications for the 2026 academic year. Established in 1974 by the Sony Educational Foundation, the college has recently celebrated its 50th anniversary and is now focused on evolving its programs to meet the diverse needs of modern students.

The college’s primary promise is to provide a rich learning environment that enables each student to quickly acquire broad social skills, preparing them to contribute effectively to local economies and society after graduation. Shohoku aims to support students through tailored educational pathways and various innovative programs aimed at fostering holistic development.

Key Initiatives for 2026 Enrollment

Long-term Study Program

One of the standout features being introduced is the Long-term Study Program, which allows students to complete a two-year curriculum over three years. This initiative, initially launched in the lifestyle production department, will be expanded to include the Comprehensive Business, Information Studies, and Early Childhood Education departments. This change aims to accommodate a variety of learning styles, providing options for those who wish to study at their own pace, balance work and education, or explore their passions while studying.

Comprehensive Business and Information Studies Department

This department is implementing a unique approach, giving students the opportunity to explore different fields of study after their first semester. The initial term will focus on fundamental business principles, with students choosing their specialization in the latter half of the academic year, catering to those still undecided about their study paths.

Additionally, a new course titled “Information S Course: IT x Creativity x Practice” will be introduced, where students will engage in practical, high-level curricula aligned with their previous studies in IT or engineering. This program aims to prepare students for professional qualifications in basic and applied information technology, ensuring they gain a comprehensive foundation in business and liberal arts.

Lifestyle Production Department

The college offers five diverse courses related to lifestyle production, allowing students of all genders to excel in domains that impact people’s everyday lives, such as fashion, food, health, and family. The curriculum is designed to foster high levels of specialization and humanistic qualities through practical exercises balanced with lectures—preparing students for a variety of professional environments.

In this department, students will have the chance to engage in specialized courses from the first year, tackling large-scale social issues from the perspective of daily life, including Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), digital transformation (DX) relevant to daily life, and essential skills such as financial literacy. Each aspect of this program is designed to holistically prepare students for successful futures in their respective fields.

Early Childhood Education Department

This department has been instrumental in training over 4,400 childcare providers, equipping them to become much-loved teachers for children. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on experience through a robust practical training system, ensuring students gain essential skills in teaching, communication, and creative expression while preparing for various certifications, including childcare and kindergarten teaching qualifications.

Scholarship Programs

Shohoku is enhancing its scholarship offerings, introducing grants such as the Shohoku Family Scholarship, which provides ¥300,000 to new students with family ties to the college. A new initiative targeting students starting their college lives away from home also offers ¥300,000 to assist with living expenses.

Open Campus Events

In preparation for the academic year, Shohoku will host multiple Open Campus events, providing prospective students and their families with valuable insights into campus life, educational opportunities, and supportive resources. Events will feature guided sessions led by current students, allowing visitors to experience the active community at the college.

Short Film Release

In line with its educational mission, the college has also released a short film titled “Keep Moving Forward.” This film captures the journey of a student grappling with uncertainties and finding direction within the supportive environment of Shohoku, showcasing the transformative impact of this institution on its students’ lives.

Shohoku Junior College stands firm in its commitment to developing talent that truly benefits society. With a proven job placement rate of over 96% for the past ten years, the college is dedicated to ensuring that every student emerges as a competent and confident contributor to their communities.

Conclusion

As Shohoku Junior College prepares for its 2026 enrollment, it remains focused on evolving its educational practices to align with societal needs, ensuring that students graduate not only with qualifications but also with the skills and self-assurance to navigate and thrive in their future careers. Visit their website for more information on programs, admission, and upcoming events.